Xthings Group - Experts & Thought Leaders

Ulticam IQ, a new line of AI-powered security cameras designed for advanced features and affordability from AIoT solutions pioneer Xthings, will now come with advanced cloud AI features using Gemini on Google Cloud, bringing professional-level video analytics to homeowners with free cloud recording on a rolling 7-day basis. This versatile indoor/outdoor camera combines free cloud storage, 4K Ultra HD resolution, and AI-driven features that provide human-like understanding of scenes and events, redefining smart home security. Transformative AI features for smarter security Ulticam IQ’s use of Gemini on Google Cloud introduces three industry-pioneering capabilities: Intelligent Scene Analysis: Real-time identification of objects, behaviours, and locations, with detailed event descriptions. Automated Risk Assessment: Classifies event footage by threat level. Users can set notifications to trigger only for high-risk events. Daily Summaries: Automatically delivers concise daily reports, such as: “In the past 24 hours, 2 high-risk events were detected between 11:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.” Intelligent scene analysis “For over a decade, security cameras have relied on basic motion detection, flooding users with false alerts that ultimately get ignored,” said Patrick Serrato, Director of Ecosystem Business Development and Product Strategy at Xthings. “Ulticam IQ, powered by Gemini on Google Cloud, marks a fundamental shift: it doesn’t just see, it understands. From intelligent scene analysis to automated risk assessment, we’re bringing real-time situational awareness and decision-making into the smart home and business.” Premium features for indoor and outdoor security Designed for versatility, Ulticam IQ is perfect for securing front yards, backyards, warehouses, and parking lots. Key features include: Edge AI: In addition to AI features enabled by Gemini on Google Cloud, IQ includes local camera processing for instant person, vehicle, and face detection. Ultra HD Resolution: Available in 4K or 2K models, Ulticam IQ delivers crisp, detailed video with a 160° diagonal wide-angle field of view. Dual Storage System: Offers free cloud recording on a rolling 7-day basis and 8GB internal storage (expandable to 128GB via SD card) for flexible, secure recording. Versatile Connectivity and Power Options: Choose from multiple connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Ethernet. IQ also comes with multiple power options, including plug-in, hardwired, and Power over Ethernet.  Spotlight: Motion-activated spotlight to deter intruders and enhance visibility.  Customizable Monitoring Zones: Define specific monitoring zones for instant smart notifications. Weather-Resistant Design: Operates flawlessly from −4°F to 122°F, ensuring durability in extreme conditions. Enhanced Privacy: Uses advanced encryption for video, audio, and data transmission across cloud and local storage. Availability and where to purchase Ulticam IQ is available now at the Ulticam website and on Amazon in the coming weeks. 2K Wi-Fi model: $169.99 MSRP 4K Wi-Fi model: $199.99 MSRP By leveraging Gemini on Google Cloud for consumer security, Xthings positions Ulticam to disrupt the $8 billion global video surveillance market, offering unmatched value without subscriptions.

Anviz (a business unit of Xthings Group, Inc.) has officially launched an OSDP (Open Supervisory Device Protocol)-enabled access control solution. The goal is simple: improve the shortcomings of legacy access control systems while enabling bi-directional, secure data interactions between systems and components. While communication standards ensure interoperability among diverse technologies designed and manufactured by global companies – evolving standards like OSDP allow the application of technological advances and mitigation of external threats and vulnerabilities. Legacy control protocols no longer meet industry needs Data transmitted over Wiegand is not encrypted, creating security exposure and vulnerability Legacy Wiegand functionality limits device capability to being a point-to-point system where the reader transmits data directly to the access control panel but not to other devices. Data transmitted over Wiegand is not encrypted, creating security exposure and vulnerability. Anviz is fully committed to global security and privacy requirements, as exemplified by its adherence to GDPR compliance. The feature deployment of OSDP meets the customer’s goals of creating, enhancing, and maintaining secure and capable access control solutions. Once OSDP was released as an industry standard, Anviz mandated an internally driven and committed OSDP-focused feature enhancement goal. OSDP: A more secure, feature-rich access control protocol Since security is at the core of the OSDP access control protocol, modern OSDP-equipped access control systems and devices encrypt data and provide bi-directional communication, making them more secure--yet giving them greater application power and flexibility. OSDP key advantages Anviz OSDP-enabled devices can be deployed on legacy RS-485 networks Anviz OSDP-enabled devices can be deployed on legacy RS-485 networks, so site impact on infrastructure is reduced. When installed, the products offer data encryption for the highest data security, controller status monitoring at a glance, and visual feedback during user interaction. Anviz support for Wiegand and OSDP The SAC921 access controller supports legacy Wiegand readers and C2KA-OSDP readers. As shown, each door cassette on the SAC921 has connection points for legacy Wiegand and OSDP Anviz readers--for maximum installed or new site support. Anviz is constantly refining and updating its security systems--optimising components to maintain maximum flexibility while staying ahead of evolving threats. They strive to provide products to business end users that enable them to benefit from higher security and enhanced features – but with the advantages of long-term, regular technology updates Anviz offers.

Poised to reaffirm its position as an innovator in converged intelligent security systems, Anviz takes centre stage at ISC West 2024 to launch its latest prevention-focused innovation, Anviz One. An All-In-One Intelligent Security Solution, Anviz One is designed to meet the needs of small and medium sized businesses (SMBs) across various sectors, including retail, food and beverage, K-2 campuses, and gyms. This cutting-edge platform seamlessly integrates AI cameras and intelligent analytics and uses edge and cloud infrastructure to offer a comprehensive security suite that fortifies physical assets with precision and intelligence. Intelligent security systems A one-stop solution, it facilitates swift deployment, saves costs, and lowers technical barriers Anviz One transforms safety and revolutionises how SMBs manage, secure, and gain insights from their facilities. SMBs can now say goodbye to cobbling together disparate security management systems. A one-stop solution, it facilitates swift deployment, saves costs, and lowers technical barriers, leading to more accurate detection and faster response times. “While the cybersecurity landscape changes daily, physical security risk mitigation demands constant assessment too,” said Jeff Pouliot, National Sales Director of Xthings, a Global AIoT Solutions Leader, of which Anviz is one of its brands. He adds, “An increasingly complex array of physical security threats – vandalism, theft, unauthorised access, and external threats — pose significant challenges to SMBs. What’s more, the escalating sophistication of physical security threats further complicates the landscape, demanding more intelligent and adaptive security systems.” Adaptive security systems According to Straits Research, the global physical security market was valued at USD 113.54B in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 195.60B by 2030 at a CAGR of 6.23% from 2022 to 2030. The SMB segment is anticipated to experience the highest CAGR over the forecast period, at 8.2 percent. This expansion can be attributed to theft, environmental hazards, and intruders, as small businesses have a lot of resources and people to safeguard. SMBs confront unique security challenges, necessitating moving beyond conventional measures. Often operating with limited resources, they require cost-effective yet powerful solutions to safeguard their premises. By integrating AI, cloud, and IoT, Anviz One provides a smarter, more responsive system capable of analysing patterns, predicting breaches, and automating responses. “This advanced security level is not merely an option but a critical component in protecting the vital assets and operations that drive business forward,” said Jeff Pouliot. Complete security system Anviz One’s advanced analysis moves beyond basic motion detection Anviz One’s advanced analysis moves beyond basic motion detection, enabling the differentiation between suspicious behaviour and innocuous activity. For instance, AI can distinguish between someone loitering with potential ill intent and an individual simply resting outside a facility. Such discernment drastically reduces false alarms and directs focus toward real threats, significantly enhancing security precision for businesses. With Anviz One, deploying a complete security system has never been easier. By integrating edge computing and cloud, Anviz provides effortless integration, instant connectivity via Wi-Fi and PoE, and compatibility that cuts costs and complexity. Its edge server architecture maximises compatibility with existing systems, further reducing the steps and costs for system maintenance. Key benefits for SMBs Enhanced Security: Utilises advanced AI cameras and analytics to detect and alert on unauthorised access or unusual activities. Lower Upfront investment: Anviz One is designed to be cost effective, reducing the initial financial burden on SMBs. Cost effective and low IT complexity: Features products, technical support, and maintenance services. Can be quickly deployed with lower costs and technical barriers. Stronger Analytics: System equipped with AI cameras and intelligent analytics that provide more accurate detection and quicker response. Simplified management: With its cloud infrastructure and Edge AI server, it simplifies management of security systems from anywhere. Robust security system Anviz also provides professional services to optimise security operations  Anviz also provides professional services to optimise security operations and share insights with management, thereby reducing the learning curve during system deployment.  Thus, SMBs can quickly deploy a smart, robust security system on their premises with lower costs and technical bars that often hinder efforts to enhance safety. Anviz will demo Anviz One, alongside other Anviz products, including Smart Access Control, Time Attendance and Smart AI Surveillance in the Xthings booth Stand 23089 in Las Vegas, April 9 to 12. Captivating scavenger hunt In addition, Anviz has partnered with industry expert Lee Odess, CEO of Access Control Executive Brief, to sponsor ACS Quest, a captivating scavenger hunt that will make its debut at ISC West. The ACS Quest sets a new standard for engagement within the security sector, combining elements of competition and collaboration. Participants are invited to register as ‘hunters’, searching for clues and completing challenges. By signing up and completing interactive tasks with brands, individuals have an opportunity to win prizes, including a $25,000 grand prize on Wednesday, April 10, and Thursday, April 11.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is having a profound impact on businesses across various industries, including security. In physical security as in other business environments, the IoT is changing how systems operate, interact, and create value. In the process, the IoT is driving efficiency, reducing costs, and opening up new avenues for innovation and growth. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How is the Internet of Things (IoT) transforming how security systems are deployed?

Future-proofing your skillset is about embracing continuous learning and developing a versatile set of competencies that remain valuable regardless of technological shifts or industry changes. In the security marketplace, it is not about predicting the exact jobs of the future, but rather equipping yourself to adapt and thrive in the uncertain security landscape. But where to begin? The emerging technology shifts in the security industry provide clues, such as the growing importance of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI). We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How can physical security professionals “future-proof” their skillsets to prepare for emerging technologies?

In the past, security installers and integrators were used almost exclusively to install hardware. However, the role is changing and expanding along with the technologies used in the physical security industry. Nowadays, an installer or systems integrator is much more likely to use a strategic, IT-centric, and data-driven approach. To gain additional insights, we asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How is the role of the security installer/integrator changing?