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FEBRUARY 2026

APRIL 2026 How will AV

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Amino secures private ownership to accelerate innovation

Amino Communications (“Amino”) has announced that it has been acquired by Sapphire Technology Group Limited (“STGL”), establishing stable private ownership to support its next phase of disciplined growth. STGL is wholly owned by Keith Todd CBE, who was Chairman of Amino from 2007 to 2019. Todd is an experienced technology entrepreneur and investor with extensive leadership experience across public and private technology companies. The acquisition provides long-term investment backing and a simplified capital structure designed to accelerate product development, strengthen operational performance and drive sustainable profitability. Leadership and customer-facing teams remain unchanged.

Mark Carlisle, CEO of Amino, said: “This investment allows us to intensify our focus on product execution, operational efficiency and customer outcomes. With stable private ownership behind us, we are accelerating innovation across our device and platform portfolio while maintaining the continuity our customers expect.” Amino will continue operating under its established brand, with no changes to customer relationships or support models.

Serving enterprise and operator customers worldwide, Amino delivers device and software solutions powering digital signage networks, enterprise video deployments and PayTV services. Investment will focus on accelerating the device roadmap, enhancing platform capabilities and strengthening integration across hardware and software environments. Under private ownership, Amino will continue prioritising reliability, scalability and customer satisfaction, ensuring organisations can deploy and manage media solutions with confidence at scale.

Nsign enters the FT1000 list of fastest-growing companies Spanish digital signage technology company nsign, headquartered in Barcelona, has been included in the FT1000 –Europe’s Fastest-Growing Companies 2026 ranking, compiled by the Financial Times in collaboration with Statista. The ranking identifies the 1,000 European companies that achieved the highest revenue growth between 2021 and 2024. The company, which develops software for managing digital experiences in physical spaces, ranks 640th after achieving 127.9% growth during the period analysed, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 31.6%.

During those three years, nsign increased its revenue from €3.49 million in 2021 to €7.96 million in 2024, driven by the rapid digitalisation of sectors such as retail, quick-service restaurants (QSR), hospitality and transportation hubs. The FT1000 ranking, which includes companies from 31 European countries, has become one of the leading indicators of business dynamism in Europe. In this year’s edition, only 25 Spanish companies made the list. The recognition comes at a time of strong growth in the market for digital experiences in physical environments. According to industry estimates, the global digital signage market is expected to exceed $40 billion in the coming years, driven by the ongoing digital transformation of retail, hospitality and transportation spaces. “Being part of the FT1000 confirms that we are building a technology company with a global outlook,” said Toni Viñals, CEO of nsign. “More and more organizations need platforms capable of connecting data, operations and communication across their physical environments.”

Founded in Barcelona in 2006, nsign develops a SaaS plat-

“Being part of the FT1000 confirms that we are building a technology company with a global outlook,” said Toni Viñals, CEO of nsign. “More and more organizations need platforms capable of connecting data, operations and communication across their physical environments.”

form designed to manage and orchestrate digital experiences in physical spaces, connecting networks of screens with enterprise systems and real-time data sources. The platform is built around the principle of ‘Simplify Complexity’, enabling organisations to design, automate and measure even the most sophisticated digital environments from a single platform. Platforms of this kind are becoming a key component of digital transformation processes in sectors such as retail, hospitality and transportation, where digital screens are no longer limited to displaying content but are increasingly integrated with operations, pricing, promotions, business data and customer service systems.

In addition to delivering dynamic content, the nsign platform enables organizations to capture and analyse data to optimise communication, operations and user interaction, incorporating technologies such as artificial intelligence, Big Data and IoT. Today, the company manages more than 85,000 connected devices across more than 25 countries and serves over 1,000 international brands. Its clients include companies such as Areas, Aena, PwC, Electronic Arts, Burger King, KFC, Subway, Starbucks, Krispy Kreme, Cinépolis, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, PepsiCo, Porcelanosa, The Phone House, Nespresso, Unilever and Haribo.

Boom expands UK conferencing presence

Boom Collaboration has struck a new supply deal with AV and workplace solutions distributor, Anders + Kern, to create a stronger foothold across the UK market. The new distribution deal is being hailed as a major catalyst for growth for both parties – providing Boom with new market opportunities and London-based Anders + Kern with access to high quality, high value conferencing innovations, from plug-and-play devices to integrated full room systems.

Boom was born in 2020 by founders Fredrik Hörnkvist and Holli Hulett, in a bid to disrupt the sector and stand out from the crowd. The ambitious California-based business has quickly developed an extensive conferencing portfolio and operates globally in over 30 countries, backed by a major European distribution centre in Sweden. The new partnership is being hailed as a ‘natural fit’ for Boom by Hörnkvist who explained: “Anders + Kern is a very well respected AV and workplace solutions distributor across a key sales region. They offer us the perfect platform to penetrate deeper into a growing UK market.” Hulett added: “We see Anders + Kern providing us with the reach, support and skills to quickly make an instant impact and help its resellers capture greater levels of business. It’s a win-win for all parties.”

Anders + Kern was established in 1989 and operates nationwide, headed by Managing Director, Barrie Meehan. It specialises in audio-visual solutions, desk and room booking systems, displays, workspace software and sensor technology. Meehan pointed out: “We were looking for a partner to provide competitive bundles, stand out from the crowd and make deployments as simple as possible. Boom ticks every box and will be backed by high levels of support by us. Conferencing is becoming a bigger part of our business, especially around Bring Your Own Meeting systems where Boom already shines. Hybrid work is now firmly embedded as an integral part of modern working cultures and Boom can help us gain a bigger slice of the action.”

He added: “Boom products are not limited but designed to expand together in multiple ways across many different room types. They combine high quality with exceptional value which fill a natural gap in our wider portfolio. They will open new sales doors for our customers, from cameras to audio and innovative connectivity such as their ARC and ZYGO hubs. Boom complements our existing portfolio and we are very confident the new partnership will be a resounding suc-

cess particularly as their stylish high performance collaboration products are tailored for today’s flexible working trends. Once our customers realise just how great Boom is, things will snowball from there. We are all looking forward to working together and propelling a new brand into Anders + Kern with vigour and determination.”

Yorktel-Kinly consolidates under single global brand

Following the completion of their merger, Yorktel-Kinly today announced that the consolidated organisation will move forward under a single unified brand ‘Kinly’. This marks an important step in the integration, providing the unified presence as the combined organisation grows as a global powerhouse in consulting, systems integration, managed services, and event management. The decision to unify under one brand reflects both organisations shared values, complementary expertise, and combined ambition to become the world’s most trusted collaboration lifecycle partner.

With a strengthened global footprint, Kinly will serve more than 2,500 clients across 27 offices worldwide serving over 100 countries. Existing customers and partners will continue with trusted account teams, while also benefiting from a wid-

er solutions portfolio, greater support capacity, and more consistent delivery in every country and location. Commenting on the news, Ken Scaturro, CEO, Kinly, said: “Under the evolved Kinly brand, we will continue to build on the history, expertise, and world-class delivery of both companies. We are committed to developing our brand in a way that honours both legacies while setting a clear direction for the future. As one of the top global managed services providers, with the right people and the right culture already in place, we are well positioned to deliver the experiences and solutions our clients need now, and in the years to come.”

The unified brand reinforces Kinly’s commitment to trust, partnership, and global collaboration excellence. It will also provide a platform capable of supporting the company’s longterm strategy, including expanded managed services, AI-driven support models, and end-to-end lifecycle ownership for enterprise organisations.

Pro AV Solutions launches women in AV platform

Pro AV Solutions has launched a new Women in AV platform as part of its broader commitment to increasing participation, visibility and structured career pathways for women in the Australian audiovisual industry. The initiative connects real career stories from across the business with formal training

opportunities delivered through the Institute of AV Technology. The new landing page highlights leadership, technical and operational roles, providing greater visibility into the diversity of careers available in AV while linking directly to current career opportunities, work experience pathways and mentoring enquiries.

The platform is closely aligned with the Institute of AV Technology, Pro AV Solutions’ national training program that delivers recognised qualifications combined with paid, on-site industry experience. The Institute provides structured entry pathways into technical, engineering and project delivery roles, combining classroom learning with hands-on installation, integration and commissioning experience across live projects. Recent workforce data shows women represent approximately 28 to 32 percent of Australia’s STEM and technology workforce, with significantly lower representation in technical and engineering roles. The AV industry reflects similar trends, reinforcing the need for clearer and more visible entry pathways.

Kylee Naglost, CEO of Pro AV Solutions, said the focus is on long-term workforce development rather than a single awareness initiative.

“I began my career in the AV industry in 1987, at a time when gender diversity was barely visible. Over the years, I’ve seen the industry evolve into a space where collaboration, capability and contribution matter more than titles or stereotypes. As one of Australia’s largest national AV integrators, we recognise our responsibility to contribute to the long-term capability of the industry. The Institute of AV Technology was established to create structured, supported entry points into technical careers, and the Women in AV platform strengthens that by increasing visibility and encouraging more people to consider AV as a rewarding profession.”

Recently recognised as one of Australia’s Best Places to Work 2025, Pro AV Solutions will continue expanding its training intake and industry engagement through the Institute of AV Technology, working with education providers and industry partners to build a broader, more diverse pipeline of AV professionals.

XTA/MC² appoints Modern Solutions Plus as distributor for Thailand

UK dsp and amplifier technology manufacturing partners XTA and MC² have appointed Modern Solutions Plus as their exclusive distributor for Thailand. Modern Solutions Plus distributes a number of leading global brands in Thailand as well as being a successful designer and integrator of audio systems across the country. Commenting on behalf of XTA/MC² Richard Fleming looks forward to establishing a productive relationship with Modern Solutions Plus: “Modern Solutions Plus is a long-established, highly-regarded company with an excellent understanding of this rapidly expanding market. Its expert team combine a detailed knowledge of the products they distribute with vast experience of advising and supplying clients across the installation and touring sectors, and so are perfectly placed to represent XTA/MC² in Thailand.”

Suttipun ‘Mac’ Youngnek, Founder of Modern Solutions Plus adds: “The global reputations which XTA and MC² have built over the years speaks volumes for the quality of their premium amplification products. We’re delighted to be adding the brands to our portfolio and sharing the benefits of these market-leading technologies with our customers.”

Wildstone’s second phase of deal with Motor Fuel Group

Wildstone has announced plans to begin the digitisation of hundreds of classic out-of-home assets as part of a strategic partnership agreement with Motor Fuel Group (MFG), the UK’s largest independent forecourt provider. MFG operates more than 1,200 petrol stations across the UK and is the nation’s fifth-largest retailer by number of stores, having completed a £2.5bn acquisition of 337 Morrisons petrol stations in April 2024. After a highly competitive tender process, Wildstone has now been selected as MFG’s exclusive partner for the digitisation of both large and small format DOOH on its roadside estate, including the Morrisons portfolio.

The new deal follows on from the success of the initial 25year agreement signed between the parties in May 2024, when Wildstone secured the contract to install DOOH assets across MFG’s undeveloped estate. The first new digital sixsheet (D6) screen went live in October 2024, and since then a further 252 D6s have been installed. The rollout of new digital screens will continue alongside the digitisation of classic assets. The agreement represented Wildstone’s first part-

nership with a major forecourt provider and has enabled the group to build upon its existing portfolio of more than 3,000 OOH assets across the UK. Wildstone has partnered with media owner i-media, a leader in motorway Out of Home advertising, to operate the screens – the first deal between the two companies. i-media already operates over 1000 D6 and D48 screens across the UK and is now the media operator for all Wildstone D6 screens across the MFG network.

Wildstone is wholly responsible for the delivery of the MFG project, including screen design, planning applications, build, legals, installation and maintenance, ensuring i-media is delivered a fully turnkey network. Danielle Finch, Business Development Director at Wildstone, said: “Our partnership with MFG marks a landmark moment for Wildstone and has allowed us to further diversify our asset base across the UK. We are delighted to secure this unique opportunity to partner with a group of MFG’s calibre and scale, and to have navigated a complex process to deliver an industry-leading network for our media partner i-media. The first stage of our partnership has been extremely successful, delivering outstanding results for all parties, and we’re excited to continue this progress with the digitisation of MFG’s existing OOH assets alongside their recently acquired Morrisons portfolio.”

Tom Butcher, Estates Manager, Motor Fuel Group said: “Wildstone has exceeded expectations in creating a new revenue stream for MFG. The digital screens strengthen our visual brand and allow us to advertise our marketing messages across the digital network. The Wildstone team made the process extremely simple for us, working closely with our internal teams to ensure smooth delivery and rapid rollout of the network. We’re excited to expand the partnership by integrating and digitising our existing OOH assets to future-proof

Wildstone has announced plans to begin the digitisation of hundreds of classic Motor Fuel Group (MFG), the UK’s largest independent forecourt provider.

classic out-of-home assets as part of a strategic partnership agreement with

our forecourts with the latest technology.” Phil Diamond, Operations Director, i-media said: “The Wildstone partnership supports the continued expansion of our nationwide D6 network. The MFG estate provides a strong addition of high-quality digital assets within forecourt locations to further enhance our existing portfolio.”

AtlasIED launches new experience centre in Germany

AtlasIED has announced the expansion of its global presence with the opening of a new experience centre and showroom in Warendorf, Germany. This initiative highlights AtlasIED’s ongoing commitment to providing exceptional local customer service and training and reinforces AtlasIED’s dedication to its European customers. The beautiful and historic town of Warendorf has long been a centre of innovation and is an ideal location for a centralized European office. As AtlasIED’s customer base continues to rapidly evolve in the European market, this local presence will prove to be profoundly beneficial. “The global expansion of AtlasIED is at the core of our mission,” said Matt Czyzewski, Executive Vice President, AtlasIED. “Germany plays a significant role in the European market, and being able to connect directly with potential customers will expand our efforts to a new level.”

The experience centre will showcase AtlasIED technology solutions that have been evolving and improving installations for over 90 years. Highlights include the impressive performance of the Atlas+Fyne family of loudspeakers. The IsoFlare point-source transducer technology delivers high output and premium performance for venues where guest

experience is paramount. Additionally, the centre will feature a wide variety of AtlasIED solutions, showcasing versatility and breadth of application, from the Atmosphere digital audio and control platform to Aimline digitally steerable arrays and amplifiers, to diverse loudspeaker form factors and Dante enabled audio. “Our European customer base is rapidly growing, and I see it firsthand,” said Simon Godfrey, Director of Sales - EMEA at AtlasIED. “Being able to showcase our technology directly to all of our customers, the people I work closely with, is essential, and I look forward to witnessing the growth that this next step will propel us into.”

AtlasIED’s technical experts are available for consultation and to help assist designers with AtlasIED projects. For those interested in technical support, touring the new experience centre, or booking a training, please contact Simon Godfrey at simon.godfrey@atlasied.com.

ISS awarded contract with Bank of England

ISS has announced that it has been awarded a new 4-year contract (with an option to extend for an additional year) with the Bank of England. Beginning Q2 2026, ISS will provide integrated facilities services (IFS), including cleaning, mailroom, front-of-house and workplace services, to multiple sites across England, including the Bank’s historic headquarters in the City of London. The contract also includes the potential to add additional service options as the contract progresses. The contract was awarded following a rigorous commercial process, with ISS being selected as a strategic partner to help the Bank of England deliver its vision for the future. This includes working to embed flexibility, sustainability and user experience across the Bank’s estate, creating people-first workplaces that meet the needs of a modern workforce, while also preserving the Bank’s unique heritage. Scott Davies, CEO of ISS UK & Ireland, said: “We are thrilled to announce this prestigious new contract with the Bank of England. This win reflects ISS’s deep sector expertise in government and financial services — two highly regulated environments — and our commitment to bringing the very best of that experience to support customers with large, complex estates and diverse workforce needs. We look forward to supporting the Bank as it transforms its workplaces for

Barco to acquire VerVent Audio Holding

Barco has announced that it has reached an agreement in principle to acquire 100% of the shares of VerVent Audio Holding (“VerVent”), a French/British premium audio company active in high end audio systems, headphones and automotive OEM audio solutions, with premium audio brands Focal and Naim. The agreement marks a strategic expansion for Barco’s portfolio, establishing the company as a fully integrated audiovisual solutions provider.

An Steegen, CEO of Barco, commented: “Today marks an important step in Barco’s ambition to shape the future of immersive audiovisual experiences. By welcoming VerVent and its iconic Focal and Naim brands into the Barco family, we accelerate our strategy to deliver fully integrated solutions where image and sound reinforce each other seamlessly. Building on our leadership in visualization, we go all-in on Entertainment. The addition of high fidelity audio strengthens the overall experience of our offering across high end residential and broader consumer/home entertainment environments, as well as in professional markets. This combination expands our reach, deepens our technology capabilities, and positions us to capture new opportunities across the audiovisual value chain. We are excited to embark on this next chapter together.”

VerVent, headquartered in Saint-Étienne, France, is a premium audio group with a long heritage in designing and manufacturing high-end audio systems under its globally recognized Focal and Naim brands. Its portfolio spans premium loudspeakers, immersive and active audio solutions, headphones, studio monitors and automotive and yachting OEM systems, complemented by a growing custom installation and home theatre offering. VerVent’s strong global retail and distribution network - including more than 80 premium boutiques and thousands of sales points - provides an immediate platform for go-to-market acceleration.

The premium audio market – combining audiophile consumer audio and high-end home cinema segments - is estimated at more than €3 billion, and supported by trends of immersive sound, active speakers, integrated systems and direct to consumer go to market models. The combination will enable Barco’s evolution towards integrated audiovisual solutions, offering high end visualization and audio solutions to both consumer and professional customers. Beyond the home and consumer segment, this will also create opportunities to develop integrated audiovisual propositions in home cinema, public spaces and professional cinema, building on Barco’s leading cinema and high end residential visualisation solutions and VerVent’s premium audio expertise.

The Enterprise Value of the acquisition is approx. €135 million. The transaction is planned to be financed with Barco’s own funds. VerVent generates annual revenues of around €110 million. Barco expects to realize synergies over the next years. Including this acquisition, Barco reconfirms its longterm EBITDA margin guidance of 15% by 2028. After closing, VerVent will be integrated into Barco’s Entertainment division. Barco intends to support the company’s ongoing strategic plan, which focuses on high end premium audio positioning, a technology upgrade towards digital, active and connected products, portfolio rationalization and leveraging its sales network, including consumer channels and brand licensing. The completion of the transaction remains subject to the prior information and consultation of the employee representative bodies, in accordance with applicable legislation, as well as customary closing conditions.

Sharp Display Solutions builds on ISE success

Sharp Display Solutions Europe, the audio visual technology business division of Sharp Europe, is building on a highly successful Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2026, following a record-setting show in Barcelona that brought together the global AV and digital signage community. Exhibiting under the theme ‘Focus - Now and Beyond’, Sharp showcased its latest display technology, unveiled a refreshed corporate identity on the show floor, and demonstrated the strength of its unified proposition across regions and solutions.

A standout moment of ISE 2026 was Sharp’s EC Series dvLED winning this year’s Best of Show Awards at ISE. The award underlines Sharp’s continued leadership in delivering impactful, future-ready visual technology to integrators, AV and IT professionals, and enterprise clients. Throughout ISE 2026, Sharp welcomed partners, clients, business analysts and media to its stand, which featured immersive demonstrations, hands-on experiences and expert-led discussions. Visitors explored a broad technology portfolio spanning dvLED, large format displays, interactive solutions, captivating projection solutions and embedded computing platforms – all designed to deliver precision, reliability, long-term value, and sustainable operation. Speaking at the show, Ian Barnard, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Product Management at Sharp Display Solutions Europe said, “ISE 2026 was a fantastic opportunity to connect with our partners and clients at a time when the industry is looking to deliver trusted, tailored

An Steegen, CEO of Barco: “Today marks an important step in Barco’s ambition to shape the future of immersive audiovisual experiences. By welcoming VerVent and its iconic Focal and Naim brands into the Barco family, we accelerate our strategy.”

solutions for workplaces and public spaces, connecting people and technology. Winning a Best of Show award for our new Sharp EC Series dvLED is a real validation of the innovation and engineering behind our display solutions. Just as importantly, the show demonstrated our unified proposition – with our teams coming together to deliver a joined-up visual experience that helps clients innovate with confidence, now and beyond”.

Reflecting on Sharp’s fully integrated brand strategy and expanded portfolio, Christof Böhm, President and Managing Director, Sharp Display Solutions Europe added, “With the completion of our integration, Sharp is now operating as a technology partner with a broad and unified proposition. We bring together Audio Visual, Managed Print and a growing range of IT Services under one brand, supported by hundreds of IT specialists across Europe. This empowers us to go beyond off-the-shelf products and deliver customised, solution-led experiences, combining the trusted engineering DNA people know from NEC with the strength, scale and clarity of the Sharp brand.”

Key highlights from Sharp’s ISE 2026 showcase included:

•dvLED EC Series – award-winning dvLED with CoB technology, delivering robust, energy efficient, and high-performance digital surfaces with flexible installation options, for outstanding viewing experiences.

•SDM MPi5 Kit – innovative, open and modular computing platform powered by Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5, enabling simplified deployment and future-ready digital signage.

•LB3 Series Interactive Displays – the new LB3 Series delivers intuitive, collaborative experiences for meetings, classrooms, and public spaces, combining intuitive touch capabilities, enterprise security, and versatile connectivity.

• PCAP Touch Table with eyefactive – a 55” multi-user PCAP touch table, developed in partnership with eyefactive, delivering engaging interactive experiences for retail, hospi-

tality, and education.

•Expanded Projector Portfolio – versatile, scalable, and energy-efficient, Sharp’s projection portfolio leverages RB laser technology to deliver vivid colour and crisp detail. Engineered for long-lasting, maintenance-free performance for a low total cost of ownership.

•MultiSync – the MultiSync® 4000, still operational after a remarkable 25 years, demonstrates Sharp’s reliable, quality displays building on decades of expertise. Continuing this legacy of long-term value and future-ready performance, the new Sharp MultiSync® M2 Series PCAP displays launching in Spring 2026 include modular options, flexible connectivity, 550 cd/m² brightness, and SpectraView Engine for vivid, accurate colour.

Sustainability was a core theme across the stand; with Sharp highlighting that quality is the foundation of sustainability. Sharp integrates energy-efficient technologies, modular design, and long-life engineering to embed sustainability by design, ensuring lasting environmental and operational value.

WyreStorm launches WyreStorm Academy

WyreStorm has announced the official launch of WyreStorm Academy, a brand-new, fully custom-built online training platform designed to empower AV professionals with practical knowledge, structured learning, and certification pathways. The Academy represents a major step forward in WyreStorm’s commitment to education, partner enablement, and longterm industry development. Built from the ground up, the platform is designed to support an unlimited number of courses and training modules as the Academy continues to expand. Upon registration, users provide professional details such as company name, job title, and country, allowing WyreStorm to better understand and support its global partner network.

At launch, the Academy introduces two foundational courses:

•NHD Level 1 – Sales & Design

•NHD Level 1 – Technical

•WyreStorm Asia – Sales Certification

The Sales & Design course delivers 45 minutes of structured video learning supported by eight knowledge tests, guiding users through the fundamentals of AV over IP, system selection, and product positioning. The Technical course extends deeper with 75 minutes of training and eleven assessments, including controller setup guidance and step-by-step project configuration support. To ensure meaningful certification, participants must watch at least 90% of video content and achieve a minimum 80% score on assessments to complete a course. Upon completion, a personalised certificate is automatically generated.

The Academy’s visual identity and user experience were entirely custom designed, aligning with WyreStorm’s evolving brand ecosystem and the upcoming Support Hub 2.0 release. From course thumbnails to motion graphics and certification design, the platform reflects WyreStorm’s focus on quality and clarity. “Education has always been central to how we support our partners,” said Luka Bordjoski –Training Coordinator at WyreStorm. “WyreStorm Academy formalizes that commitment, providing structured, accessible training that strengthens confidence in system design, deployment, and sales conversations.”

Vicoustic brings acoustic engineering to the hybrid workplace

As hybrid work becomes standard, open-plan offices are increasingly affected by noise from video calls and overlapping conversations, making speech privacy and focus harder to achieve. Responding to this shift, Portugal-based acoustic engineering specialist Vicoustic has introduced VicBooth Office Plus, a modular workplace booth designed to support speech privacy, focus and effective communication within open-plan offices.

Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Porto, Vicoustic operates one of Europe’s largest production facilities dedicated exclusively to acoustic solutions. This expertise informs the development of VicBooth Office Plus, a modular system designed to help organizations create more balanced and productive working environments. The VicBooth Office Plus is engineered to support speech privacy in workplaces, achieving Acoustic Performance Class B in accordance with ISO 23351-1. Its performance is supported by a layered construction system that integrates proprietary absorption materials, including VicPET Wool, a recycled PET-based absorber developed to combine acoustic efficiency with responsible sourcing. VicBooth Office Plus supports multiple configurations, from single-user focus spaces to larger meeting environments, with expandable modules designed to adapt to evolving workplace layouts. Sustainability also forms part of the engineering strategy. All systems are manufactured in Portugal using recycled materials, local production and compact flat-pack logistics designed to reduce transport impact. Portions of Vicoustic’s production are powered by solar energy. As hybrid work continues to reshape office design, speech privacy and intelligibility are becoming increasingly important performance criteria in workplace architecture. Vicoustic believes that applying acoustic engineering expertise to everyday work environments can help organisations create spaces that better support concentration, collaboration and well-being.

InfoComm China Report on China Pro-AV Market Opportunities

China’s Pro-AV sector is at a pivotal point of transformation, shaped by the convergence of AV, IT, and emerging digital technologies. The country’s growth engine is underpinned by large-scale digital infrastructure investment, enterprise modernization, and strong demand across education, commercial, and public-sector verticals, with expectations to reach US$97.5 billion by 2028 – representing the largest market share in global Pro-AV.

Technologies such as AI-enabled automation, real-time collaboration platforms, and interactive display ecosystems are rapidly becoming baseline requirements rather than differentiators. Sustainability is also emerging as a core priority across the Pro-AV value chain. Heightened awareness of environmental responsibility, coupled with stricter regulatory requirements and evolving end-user expectations, is accelerating the adoption of sustainable manufacturing practices and environmentally responsible product design. These factors and forces acting in unison is the driving force behind Pro-AV and IT innovations in China.

The report highlights market data, recent government initiatives, as well as Pro-AV trends in China, from hybrid meetings to integrated solutions, to digital transformation to intelligent (SMART) service scenarios. In addition,14 selected case studies from manufactures and solution provides are illustrated including those who are “export-ready” and seeking new partners with brand features such as global support, customization, and adherence to international standards. Case studies include real-life product implementation projects from InfoComm China 2026 exhibitors. The case study examples cover a multitude of sectors from hotels & restaurants, to education, to commercial sectors such as finance, to govern-

ment sectors such as houses of parliament and implementations ranging from AI intelligent audio systems for the classrooms to holographic invisible LED screens applied to bank facades.

In line with InfoComm China’s strategic shift toward global integration, the report concludes with additional details on how readers can connect with the export-ready and similar companies illustrated in the report at Beijing InfoComm China 2026. The new International Visitor and Invited Guest programs launching at this year’s event also include tools and resources for overseas visiting professionals to navigate their way to China, through the fair, and efficiently network and conduct business deals. The Invited Guest program offers fully hosted flights to InfoComm China, hotel accommodation, and an array of personalized services to help with sourcing and business-match-making for high-volume technology buyers and decision makers.

For 20 years, Beijing InfoComm China has served as the most professional and influential platform for promoting and expanding China’s global Professional Audio-Visual (Pro-AV) industry. Through decades of bringing together manufacturers, solution providers, IT system integrators, and end users of Pro-AV, Beijing InfoComm China has become Asia’s premier Hub for Pro-AV excellence. Taking place from 15-17 April 2026, at the China National Convention Center (CNCC), the show marks the beginning of a landmark era: the 20th year of the InfoComm China brand, followed by the 20th edition of the tradeshow in 2027. From an exhibition floor hosting over 400 companies and welcoming over 26,000 professional visitors, to a world-class conference lineup of Pro-AV industry movers & shakers, to delighting audiences with innovative and immersive themed zones, InfoComm China is where China is shaping the digital forward future.

Download the complimentary report: A World of Cutting-Edge Pro-AV: China’s Pro-AV Market Overview & Opportunities. Learn more about the China Pro-AV Market, InfoComm China and our International Visitor and Hosted Guest programs: Overview of China Pro-AV Market

Rethink Connected Workplaces:How Promethean’s Ecosystem is Transforming Modern Collaboration and Productivity

In an era where hybrid and remote working models define the professional landscape, organisations face increasing pressure to deliver seamless, efficient, and secure collaboration experiences. Meetings are no longer confined to physical rooms — they’re virtual, hybrid, spontaneous, and dynamic. Yet too often, productivity suffers from complex technology setups, inconsistent software experiences, and persistent connectivity issues.

This is where Promethean, a global leader in professional AV technology, steps in to revolutionise the workplace environment with its connected ecosystem of hardware and software solutions. By rethinking everyday collaboration and communication, Promethean helps organizations create smarter, safer, and more productive spaces — designed to meet the evolving needs of modern workforce.

The Modern Workplace Challenge: Complexity and Disconnection

It is a common frustration among professionals worldwide: How much time is wasted simply trying to start a

meeting? Technical glitches, cable mix-ups, inconsistent software access, and security concerns consume precious minutes, often setting a negative tone for what should be productive sessions.

IT teams, meanwhile, grapple with deploying solutions that work universally and securely, while also giving users the flexibility and personalization they expect. In such an environment, technology should be an enabler, not an obstacle.

Promethean’s ‘Rethink Connected Spaces’

Promethean’s approach is grounded in simplicity, security, and engagement. Promethean [JM1] delivers[SJ2] an integrated ecosystem perfect for hybrid working by connecting every element needed for a smarter meeting experience — from meeting room hardware to personalised software interfaces.

At the heart of this ecosystem is the ActivPanel® 10 Premium, an interactive display solution combining touchscreen collaboration with robust security, performance, and versatility. Partnered with the Windows-powered OPS-M PC module, an integrated ePTZ (electronic

pan, tilt, zoom) camera, and the innovative DisplayNote* Launcher[RH3] software, Promethean creates a unified environment that puts collaboration front and centre. Alongside interactive offerings[MD4] [JM5] , the non-interactive ActivPanel D-Series is Promethean’s first digital signage solution designed [JM6] specifically to improve real-time message delivery.

What Makes the Promethean Ecosystem Different?

1. Effortless One-Touch Meeting Access

DisplayNote Launcher fundamentally changes how meetings begin. It replaces fumbling through cables, device connections, or multiple app launches with a single-touch interface on the ActivPanel.[RH7] Users immediately connect to their preferred conferencing platform, reducing errors and delays.

DisplayNote Launcher provides:

Personalized user interface including company logos, wallpapers, and shortcuts. Quick access to personal files and calendars.

Automatic session cleanup to protect user data and maintain IT security.

Unified, secure meeting activation that supports consistency across rooms and sites.

This means meetings move “from arrival to action” in seconds, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.

2. Interactive, Secure Collaboration with ActivPanel 10 Premium

The ActivPanel 10 Premium[RH8] serves as the centrepiece of the ecosystem. Designed specifically for hybrid meeting spaces, the panel enables teams to brainstorm, innovate, and collaborate interactively — whether participants are in-room or remote.

With 4K resolution, multi-touch capability, split-screen options, and extensive annotation tools, the ActivPanel 10 encourages natural engagement. It supports hybrid collaboration by integrating seamlessly with the Windows-based OPS-M compute, enabling users to run powerful, familiar applications natively on the device.

Enterprise-grade security features protect sensitive corporate data during interactions, and the system adheres

to IT policies regarding device management and user access.

3. Dynamic Communication with ActivPanel D-Series

Improve communication with impactful announcements and emergency notifications to inform and engage in any workplace environment.

ActivPanel D-Series supports:

U[MD9] sage in conjunction with interactive displays for easy, scalable message deployment.

Showcasing every message everywhere, connecting people across departments, locations[AC10] and continents.

Management, deployment, and updates of content remotely with cloud-based software for streamlined IT workflows.

Workplaces can empower teams, build culture, and simplify communication by showcasing achievements, company milestones, and key messages.

4. IT-Friendly Deployment and Management

From the IT perspective, Promethean’s ecosystem eases long-term operational challenges. The system’s software components, including DisplayNote Launcher, can be managed centrally via a single portal, enabling: Standardisation of user experience across all meeting rooms

Reduced troubleshooting and support demand due to simplified hardware and software configurations

Enhanced security through user session clearance and controlled access

Scalable technology that accommodates growth or changes in organizational structures

This holistic approach helps organizations future-proof their technology investments while maintaining control and minimizing complexity.

The Future of Work Lives in Smart, Connected Spaces

Promethean’s ecosystem is more than the sum of its parts. It embodies a philosophy of reimagining ordinary meeting rooms into connected hubs — places where technology fades into the background and human collaboration takes centre stage.

By fully integrating hardware and software for a cohesive, secure, and intuitive workflow, Promethean transforms everyday workspaces into productivity powerhouses. It empowers organizations to embrace hybrid working confidently, fostering inclusivity, engagement, and efficiency across teams of any size.

Customer Success: A Proven Approach Recognised Industry-Wide

Promethean’s commitment to innovation and reliability has earned it recognitions such as BETT’s 2026 Company of the Year and ISE’s 2026 Best in Show for ActivPanel 10. This endorsement reflects Promethean’s drive for:

Collaboration without complexity — empowering hybrid teams by design

Communication with clarity — simplifying interactions with one-touch access and high-quality AV Security you can trust — meeting enterprise-grade requirements for all users and IT teams

Why Now? Why Promethean?

The future of work is hybrid, collaborative, and fast-moving. Organisations must equip their teams with technology that can keep pace — technology that empowers, simplifies, and secures[AC11] interactions.

Promethean delivers this unique promise by offering: End-to-end ecosystem solutions designed specifically for hybrid and multi-platform collaboration User-centric interfaces that start meetings immediately and keep users engaged Advanced AV technologies like high-definition interactive panels and ePTZ cameras that enrich communication

Enterprise-grade security to safeguard sensitive data and ease IT concerns

Scalability and consistency across rooms and sites through streamlined management tools

For those ready to rethink ordinary meeting spaces and redefine collaboration, Promethean’s ecosystem is a compelling choice.

Ready to Elevate Your Workplace Experience?

Investing in people, culture, and office design is just the beginning — now is the time to empower teams with intelligent collaboration tools that match modern work demands.

Discover how Promethean’s connected ecosystem can transform your workspaces into seamless hubs of innovation and productivity. Visit PrometheanWorld.com to learn more, book a demonstration, and explore the possibilities for your organization.

*DisplayNote Launcher is[AL12] [FL13] [AL14] a Promethean partner. App availability varies by region and requires paid licenses for use

Tags: #Promethean #AVTechnology #HybridWork #CollaborationTools #ConnectedWorkspace #ProAV #WorkplaceProductivity #DisplayNoteLauncher #ActivPanel10Premium

When the meeting room understands the

meeting

Walk into a typical meeting room and the technology is easy to spot. There’s a display on the wall. A camera above or below it. Microphones on the table. Maybe a separate compute device tucked behind the screen. Everything works, but it still feels like a collection of components rather than a single system designed to support how people actually collaborate. With the introduction of the DTEN D7X AI, the meeting room itself begins to act more like an intelligent collaboration environment, adapting automatically to the people, conversations, and work happening inside it. To understand the difference in what AI video conferencing brings to the table, it helps to look at what a meeting actually feels like.

People enter the room. Some are in person. Others join remotely through Microsoft Teams or Zoom. With traditional systems, someone usually needs to adjust the camera, move microphones, or reposition participants so everyone can be seen and heard clearly. With the DTEN D7X AI, the system handles those adjustments automatically. A 48MP centre camera paired with dual AI depth sensors maps the room in three dimensions, identifying participants and dynamically adjusting framing as people move or speak. Instead of a static wide shot or manual controls, the camera adapts to the room in real time.

The DTEN D7X AI features a central camera as well as dual sensors. Remote participants see the conversation unfold naturally. And if someone happens to walk past the room’s glass wall, the system automatically removes them from to view to prevent distraction. As the discussion progresses, participants shift in their chairs, lean back, stand up to present, or move toward the board. Audio systems often struggle at this point. Voices drop off when someone turns away from the microphone. Background noise creeps in. Someone inevitably asks, “Can you hear me?”

The D7X AI is designed to prevent that. A 15-element microphone array uses beamforming and voice pattern tracking to isolate speech at its source. Voices remain clear even as participants move around the room. Adaptive noise cancellation actively removes background distractions such as HVAC hum or side conversations. The result is something simple but important. The meeting continues without interruption.

Most meetings eventually shift from discussion to collaboration. Someone walks up to the board to sketch an idea or outline a plan. In many rooms, that moment introduces friction. Writing can feel laggy or imprecise and capturing the whiteboard for remote participants becomes difficult. The DTEN D7X AI approaches this differently. Its 4K, 20-point capacitive touch display is designed for natural interaction, allowing participants to write, sketch, and annotate with a level of responsiveness closer to a tablet than a traditional display. Built-in AI collaboration tools support shape recognition and content organization, while integration with Microsoft Whiteboard and Zoom Whiteboard allows ideas to be saved and shared instantly. The board becomes a working surface rather than just a screen.

None of these capabilities exist in isolation. The D7X AI runs on Windows 11, providing native support for Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms while enabling emerging AI-driven meeting capabilities, including Microsoft Copilot experiences. That foundation matters. As AI begins to play a larger role in meetings, from automated meeting summaries to speaker identification and action tracking, the meeting room system

needs the compute and platform flexibility to support those evolving capabilities. Windows provides that foundation while maintaining alignment with enterprise IT environments. The back of the D7X AI with the location of additional features. Advanced collaboration technology works if it’s easy to deploy and manage. The all-in-one nature of the D7X AI means fast, simple deployment. It ships preconfigured and optimized so organizations can connect power and network and be meeting-ready within minutes. Connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB-C BYOD with touchback control support a wide range of environments. On the management side, DTEN’s Orbit Management platform gives IT teams centralized visibility and control across their devices and locations. For users, the experience is simple. Walk in. Start the meeting. Collaborate.

The introduction of the D7X AI reflects a broader evolution in collaboration technology. Meeting rooms are no longer just spaces equipped with video conferencing hardware. They are becoming integrated environments where video, audio, sensing, touch interaction, and AI work together as a single system. Instead of reacting to what happens in the room, technology begins to understand it. That shift is still in its early stages, but it represents the direction collaboration spaces are heading. The DTEN D7X AI is one of the first systems designed specifically for that future.

LEA Professional expands European reach with Matrix Sales

LEA Professional is expanding its European reach through a newfound partnership with Copenhagen, Denmark-based distributor Matrix Sales. This partnership will bring LEA Professional’s extensive technology catalog, featuring industry-leading intelligent IT solutions, best-in-class DSP, and smart power management, to customers in Denmark. As a premier AV distributor in Denmark, the Matrix Sales team has proven its expertise as it delivers the highest quality AV technology to its customers. Through this partnership, Matrix Sales will represent LEA Professional’s award-winning Network Connect series of professional amplifiers and companion Dante Connect series featuring Dante and AES67 connectivity. These series enable integrators to utilize cloud-based remote control, monitoring, notifications, and more from any internet-enabled device, allowing them to stay connected anywhere in the world.

“Our customers expect best-in-class AV solutions, and LEA consistently meets those standards,” said Thomas Christensen, CEO of Matrix Sales. “This partnership enhances our portfolio and reinforces our commitment to providing reliable,

high-performance technology for the commercial AV market.” LEA Professional’s smart amplifiers are the most feature-rich amplifiers available in the industry — featuring onboard 96kHz DSP, LEA Cloud connectivity, WebUI, third-party API control, real-time load monitoring, LoZ/70V/100V selectable by channel, event, and fault monitoring, high-efficiency power design, over 3,000 speaker tuning presets, and LEA’s advanced amplifier control software, SharkWare. “Partnering with established European distributors like Matrix Sales is essential to expanding our presence in key markets,” said Jeff Gorton, Sales Director Europe and Africa, at LEA Professional. “The team’s expertise and regional strength allow us to deliver our technology and integrator-focused audio solutions to more customers, while maintaining the high standards of performance and support our brand is known for.”

Elysium LED to redefine visual display technology

A new force in LED display innovation has debuted with the bold ambition to move the industry into a new era of creatively ambitious, technically engineered visual experiences. Headquartered in Chicago and serving customers across North America and Europe, Elysium LED enters the professional AV market as a solutions-driven LED partner focused on engineering excellence, creative freedom, and long-term customer value. Founded by industry veteran Kirt Yanke, former executive at Sharp NEC Display Solutions, Elysium LED is built on decades of real-world installation experience, technical leadership, systems intelligence and a clear understanding of the frustrations customers face in complex LED deployments.

Kirt Yanke, President of Elysium LED, commented: “The LED technology is out there but what’s often missing is a partner who understands how to apply it properly, engineer it correctly the first time, and support it throughout its lifecycle. LED is an architectural medium for experience. Elysium LED exists to bring clarity and flawless execution.” Elysium LED launches with a portfolio of high quality, fine pitch LED solutions - the Core, Slim and Pro series - alongside outdoor LED offerings, designed for applications spanning corporate environments, retail, higher education, hospitality, transportation, entertainment, broadcast, Esports and more.

At the premium end, the Pro series delivers exceptional contrast, ultra-flat surfaces and low power consumption, leveraging advanced COB (Chip-on-Board) technology with protective coating to reduce the risk of damage in high-traffic public environments, while ensuring striking visual performance. Elysium LED’s value proposition goes far beyond precision-engineered product, with extensive full-service offerings for the entire project lifecycle, including concept and system design, collaboration with contractors and integrators, technology integration, installation, content creation services, and maintenance and upgrade services beyond standard warranties. The company can deliver within rapid deployment timelines, with standard solutions delivered and installed in as little as four weeks (site readiness dependent). Custom architectural structures - from curves and corners to cubes, spheres, waves, sculptural, freeform and semi-transparent mesh installations – can be delivered within 14 weeks.

As a newly formed, agile organisation, Elysium LED can

adapt quickly to customer needs with the ability to deploy application-specific technology where required. This approach is primed by Kirt Yanke’s firsthand site involvement in over 150 global LED installations, from straightforward wall-mounted displays to highly complex engineered integrations. “We’re giving customers access to displays that are far more interesting than a flat 16:9 on a wall,” Kirt Yanke added. “If a customer has a vision, no matter how ‘out of this world’ inspired, we’ll engineer it. Our new logo and website reflect our brand identity, which is a commitment to limitless visual possibility. We hope it makes customers think about what Elysium LED can do for them. We want the creative to ponder what the possibilities are in their environment, where we can take them beyond the realms of ordinary and into a world full of colour and awe, inspired by the majesty of life’s natural wonders.”

Elysium LED works closely with expert integrators, content studios and mounting infrastructure specialists to deliver fully realized solutions. The company’s partnership strategy ensures each element of a project is handled by specialists in their field, while maintaining single-point accountability for the client. To simplify specification and planning, Elysium LED has developed an intuitive LED Configurator tool. Customers and contractors can input project parameters to our sales team and receive detailed system recommendations within minutes to streamline sales processes and accelerate project planning. The company will have products in stock by InfoComm 2026, ready to demonstrate to customers in a private suite showcase at Resorts World, Las Vegas.

Pleneo achieves ISO 42001 Certification for AI governance

Pleneo has become the first device manufacturer in the AV and unified communications sectors to achieve ISO 42001 certification, the international standard for governance and security in artificial intelligence. The milestone marks a defining moment for an industry where AI capabilities are accelerating rapidly, but formal accountability frameworks have remained limited. ISO 42001 establishes requirements for managing AI systems responsibly, including how AI-driven decisions are documented, how data is governed, how risks are assessed, and where human oversight applies. As intelligent meeting environments become more autonomous and deeply integrated into enterprise IT infrastructure, governance is increasingly viewed as foundational rather than optional.

The certification validates Pleneo’s end-to-end oversight of the AI technologies embedded within its Room OS platform, including AI AutoDeploy, AI NoiseSense, machine learning-based room enhancement, and adaptive acoustic processing. All AI computation takes place at the edge, inside Pleneo devices, enabling real-time adaptation while maintaining data control within the physical meeting environment. By processing intelligence locally, Pleneo reduces cloud dependency, preserves privacy, and ensures that adaptive collaboration features operate in milliseconds, not seconds. As AI begins to influence how meetings are prioritised, interpreted, and experienced, governance must extend beyond data

protection to the integrity and predictability of automated decision-making itself. James Knight, CEO, Pleneo said: “Artificial intelligence shouldn’t live somewhere else, it should live where people meet. We are approaching the peak of the first major wave of AI adoption in meeting spaces. What happens next will determine whether intelligent systems become dependable infrastructure or whether uncertainty around governance slows enterprise deployment. If AI is embedded in the room, it must be explainable, controlled and accountable. ISO 42001 provides that framework, proving that innovation and responsibility can scale together.”

Pleneo’s ISO 42001 certification follows its SOC 2 Type II and ISO 27001 accreditations earlier this year, creating a consolidated governance framework spanning security, privacy, and AI management. Together, these standards position the company’s intelligent collaboration platform as enterprise-grade infrastructure designed for long-term trust and scalability. As AI continues to reshape the unified communications landscape, Pleneo argues that formal governance standards will increasingly differentiate mature platforms from experimental implementations, ensuring that intelligent meeting environments are viewed not as emerging technology, but as reliable, accountable enterprise systems.

Iyuno leverages Dante AV for seamless synchronisation

Iyuno specialises in media localization, translation, dubbing, subtitling, and voice-over services for a wide array of entertainment content. The company helps major studios, streaming platforms, broadcasters, and production companies bring their films, television shows, video games, and other media to international audiences by providing culturally relevant and high-quality language solutions. With a vast network of studios, professional translators, and skilled voice talent, Iyuno ensures that content resonates with diverse viewers worldwide while preserving the integrity and emotional impact of the original production. Through its advanced technological tools and deep understanding of regional preferences, Iyuno plays a crucial role in making content accessible and engaging for audiences in more than 80 languages.

Iyuno’s global headquarters in Burbank, California, is a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance Iyuno’s localisation and post-production capabilities. Spanning 52,000 square feet, the facility features 10 recording studios, 4 Dolby

Atmos mixing stages, a large format theatrical mix stage, multiple QC suites, and advanced video and audio editing stations. Iyuno already used Dante for audio transmission and routing and wanted to find a complementary low-latency video transmission platform to simplify their workflows. After considering other offerings, they chose Dante AV video to transport video streams throughout their production studios. “One of the overarching goals for the facility was to increase our capabilities while also affording us the most flexible solution for delivering audio and video in a secure environment,” said Nate Green, Technical Manager at Iyuno’s Burbank facility. “With Dante audio being delivered via low latency over segregated IP networks, we recognized that a video solution that worked alongside the same infrastructure would provide multiple benefits. With Dante as the audio foundation, adding Dante AV video seemed logical, but it had to deliver flexible, reliable, and synchronized performance. After an exhaustive evaluation, we determined Dante AV video was the right choice for us.”

Dante AV video is a family of hardware and software solutions that enables manufacturers and end users to easily integrate networked video into the industry-leading Dante platform. It guarantees interoperability between manufacturers while keeping discovery, configuration, and control to a single platform for all audio and video endpoints and is designed to run on standard 1GbE networks alongside Dante audio devices. Iyuno selected Bolin’s D20H Dante AV Ultra transceivers to transmit video to its Voice Over (VO) and Automated Dialogue Replacement (ADR) studios. Source videos in their original language are fed from a central AV server to a recording room via the D20 transceivers, where a VO artist dubs them in the desired target language, precisely in sync with the character’s actions on screen. This setup allows for versatile delivery to one or multiple studios as needed. As a result, video and audio are accurately synchronized, enabling the director and talent to deliver the high-quality performances Iyuno is known for.

Perfect for Iyuno’s needs, Dante AV Ultra is designed to transport ultra-low latency, high-quality video and audio over standard IP networks. Dante AV Ultra supports visually lossless 4K60 4:4:4 video transmission with sub-frame latency. It’s ideal for applications where timing, quality, and reliability are critical, such as live production, broadcast, corporate AV, and higher education. As part of the industry’s largest AVover-IP ecosystem with more than 4,300 available audio and video endpoints, Dante AV video makes it easy to break out audio to and from Dante audio devices without the need for extra hardware or format conversion. Dante AV video is also designed for deployment on enterprise networks, offering scalable solutions for LANs and WANs. Another design goal for the facility was to enhance client-centric services while providing engineers with maximum flexibility to support simultaneous and accurate video distribution solutions. Whether routing a specific video feed to a client’s viewing position or enabling complex workflows that allow multiple performers in different studios to collaborate using the same frame-accurate video source through multicast feeds to decoders, Dante AV video offers a seamless solution. This capability gives directors the creative freedom to synchronize and adjust performances effortlessly.

With Bolin Dante AV video transceivers ensuring the precise transmission of high-quality video and synchronized audio, Iyuno empowers directors with unmatched creative control and flexibility. This combination of precision and adaptability reinforces Iyuno’s commitment to delivering industry-leading

media localization and post-production services, solidifying its status as a global leader. “The AV transceivers were basically a plug-and-play installation,” said Green. “Having already been familiar with Dante audio routing, working with Dante AV video is pretty easy, really.”

Audinate launches Dante Director Professional

Audinate, the creator of the Dante audio networking platform, has announced the launch of Dante Director Professional, a comprehensive web-based management solution designed for remote management of any size AV installation – from 50 devices to many thousands. The software solution addresses the growing challenge of maintaining distributed AV infrastructure at scale by providing centralized monitoring, management, and security authentication capabilities.

As organizations expand their AV footprints across campuses, office buildings, and global facilities, managing a large number of networked devices has become increasingly complex. Dante Director Professional delivers an easily accessible solution that enables IT and AV teams to monitor device health, diagnose issues remotely, and ensure systems remain operational without requiring on-site presence. “Organisations are deploying both large and widespread Dante-enabled AV systems at unprecedented scale,” said Laurence Crew, Product Manager at Audinate. “Dante Director Professional gives technical teams the tools they need to manage these distributed networks efficiently while maintaining the security and reliability that mission-critical communication systems demand.”

Dante Director Professional delivers a robust enterprise-focused management platform for Dante devices, including:

•Remote Management: Web-based dashboard provides real-time visibility into device status, network performance, and system health across all sites, enabling IT teams to proactively identify and resolve issues before they impact users.

•Enhanced Security: Single Sign-On (SSO) authentication and role-based access controls ensure only authorized personnel can make network changes and protect corporate AV signals from unauthorized routing.

•Scalability: Support for Dante installations ranging from a few rooms to thousands of devices distributed globally.

•System Integration: API and webhook capabilities allow Dante Director Professional to integrate with existing IT support ticketing systems and monitoring platforms, streamlining incident response workflows.

•Ongoing Data Retention: Extended log-file retention with latency graphing helps technical teams identify and resolve intermittent issues that might otherwise go undetected.

From campus-wide large university installations to worldwide corporate deployments, early adopters of Dante Director Professional have reported better insight into their Dante networks. “At Rutgers University - New Brunswick, we support close to 300 general-purpose classes and learning environments across four campuses spread over 12 miles, and Dante Director Professional is an invaluable tool for remote monitoring and diagnosis of our AV systems,” says Ed Rebert, AV Systems Manager at Rutgers. “This tool is so valuable to us, you’d have to pry Dante Director Professional from my cold, dead fingers to give it up!”

The ability to segment, organize, and monitor devices on the networks, combined with performance collection and retention, elevates AV management techniques across many different use cases. “Dante Director Professional gives us full control over our global Dante network from one place,” says Aljohn Mogol, Sr. AV Engineer at Spotify. “This is a huge win because many of our remote offices don’t have any AV/IT staff

on-site, but we can still monitor, manage, and fix Dante-related issues from anywhere.” Dante Director Professional is available now with elevated support services for onboarding, deployment, and product acquisition.

Vicoustic brings acoustic engineering

to the hybrid workplace

Sustainability also forms part of the engineering strategy. All systems are manufactured in Portugal using recycled materials, local production and compact flat-pack logistics designed to reduce transport impact. Portions of Vicoustic’s production are powered by solar energy. As hybrid work continues to reshape office design, speech privacy and intelligibility are becoming increasingly important performance criteria in workplace architecture. Vicoustic believes that applying acoustic engineering expertise to everyday work environments can help organisations create spaces that better support concentration, collaboration and well-being.

HDR by Barco is confirmed as a format for major movies

Barco has announced that three new upcoming titles from The Walt Disney Studios will release in HDR by Barco this spring. These latest additions to HDR by Barco’s slate include some of the most highly anticipated films from Disney/Pixar Animation Studios, 20th Century Studios, and Lucasfilm Ltd. Twenty years after making their iconic turns as Miranda, Andy, Emily and Nigel—Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci return to the fashionable streets of New York City and the sleek offices of Runway Magazine in 20th Century Studios’ “The Devil Wears Prada 2,” the eagerly awaited sequel to the 2006 phenomenon that defined a generation. The film is directed by David Frankel, written by Aline Brosh McKenna, produced by Wendy Finerman, and execu-

tive produced by Michael Bederman, Karen Rosenfelt and Aline Brosh McKenna.

The Mandalorian and Grogu embark on their most thrilling mission yet in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu,’ an all-new Star Wars film opening exclusively in theaters May 22, 2026. The evil Empire has fallen, and Imperial warlords remain scattered throughout the galaxy. As the fledgling New Republic works to protect everything the Rebellion fought for, they have enlisted the help of legendary Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and his young apprentice Grogu. Directed by Jon Favreau, “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu” also stars Sigourney Weaver and Jeremy Allen White and is produced by Jon Favreau, Kathleen Kennedy, Dave Filoni, and Ian Bryce, with music composed by Ludwig Göransson.

The toys are back in Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story 5,” and this time it’s Toy meets Tech. Buzz Lightyear (voice of Tim Allen), Woody (voice of Tom Hanks), Jessie (voice of Joan Cusack) and the rest of the gang’s jobs are challenged when they come face-to-face with Lilypad (voice of Greta Lee), a brand-new tablet device that arrives with her own disruptive ideas about what is best for their kid, Bonnie. Will playtime ever be the same? “Toy Story 5” is directed by Academy Award winner Andrew Stanton, co-directed by Kenna Harris, produced by Lindsey Collins and features an original score by Academy Award® winner Randy Newman, who returns to score his fifth “Toy Story” feature. The film releases exclusively in theaters June 19, 2026.

These titles follow recent HDR by Barco releases from The Walt Disney Studio, including ‘Zootopia 2’ and ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ in 2025, and ‘Send Help’ earlier this year. They join a diverse 2026 HDR by Barco programming slate which includes films that appeal to all demographics, and feature striking cinematography, visual effects or captivating colour palettes that will look stunning in Barco’s high dynamic range cinema technology. ‘Hoppers,’ also from Disney and Pixar, is currently playing in HDR by Barco theaters worldwide.

Based on the company’s patented Lightsteering technology, Barco’s approach to cinematic HDR works by strategically redistributing light on screen to produce images with highlights that are over 6x brighter than traditional projection, while retaining rich details in the darks for greater depth, clarity, and range. HDR by Barco delivers expansive creative possibilities for filmmakers, producing a wide colour gamut with high-contrast images that captivate audiences.

Hisense 100 inch+ TVs ahead of FIFA World Cup

Hisense has reaffirmed its leadership in the large-screen TV market. According to Omdia’s full-year 2025 global shipment data, Hisense ranked No. 1 globally in the 100-inch-andabove TV segment for the third consecutive year (2023–2025), with global shipment share reaching 57.1% in 2025. Hisense also maintained its strong position in the Laser TV category in 2025, marking close to a decade of leadership in the UK and beyond. With a global market share of 70.3%, these results confirm Hisense as the industry authority across a range of large-screen categories, where both scale and technological capability are vital. Hisense’s consistently strong performance in this category is driven by its commitment to innovation in advanced display technologies, most notably RGB MiniLED. As the Origin of RGB MiniLED, Hisense has led the way in the evolution of the

technology, from early R&D to large-scale commercialization, establishing clear advantages in colour accuracy, brightness control, and viewing comfort for ultra-large screens. Omdia’s CES 2026 recap further supports this trajectory, identifying RGB MiniLED TVs as a key driver of the industry’s next growth phase, with rapid expansion expected for the year ahead. This confidence is reflected by Hisense UK’s 2026 product line-up which features a new series of RGB MiniLED TVs, including the UR9 and UR8, which will see this revolutionary technology available in screen sizes from 55” to 100”. Robert Andrews, Head of Strategy & GTM for TV at Hisense UK commented: “This is another significant milestone for Hisense and it demonstrates our unrivalled product range and brand presence for large screen viewing both in the UK and globally. Our cutting-edge technology and innovation allow us to continue delivering immersive home experiences as consumers increasingly look to enjoy cinematic experiences at home.

“As we look to the year ahead, we’re proud to be an official sponsor of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The upcoming tournament will provide a unique opportunity to connect with sports fans and help them bring the match day experience to life from the comfort of their homes. The increased demand Hisense large-screen and Laser TVs is reflected both globally and in the UK market, demonstrating strong consumer desire for a premium home-viewing experience at a competitive price point.”

Looking ahead, Hisense is uniquely positioned to extend this advantage. It is the only brand with a complete display technology ecosystem spanning RGB MiniLED, TriChroma Laser, and MicroLED, enabling a comprehensive approach to next-generation visual innovation. At CES 2026, Hisense showcased the 116UXS, the first TV powered by RGB MiniLED evo, alongside the UR8 and UR9 RGB MiniLED lineups and the Laser Projector XR10, all recognised with multiple CES awards.

DATA IMAGE to debut rugged FPDLink display solution for marine applications

DATA IMAGE has debuted its new ‘Rugged FPD-Link Display Solution for Marine Applications’ at embedded world 2026. The FPD Link (Flat Panel Display Link) technology breaks through the constraints of traditional long-distance cabling and electromagnetic interference (EMI) by integrating video, touch, and power transmission into a ‘single cable’ architecture. To address the limited space on modern yacht bridges - where dense, overlapping wiring from multiple de-

vices like radar and sonar often leads to EMI and compatibility issues - the Rugged FPD-Link Display Solution for Marine Applications utilises high-speed SerDes (Serializer/Deserializer) transmission technology. This allows video signals, touch control, and power delivery to be integrated into a single-cable solution. This architecture not only simplifies system wiring and improves space utilisation but also reduces installation and maintenance complexity.

With its high-integration and anti-interference advantages, the solution ensures that critical navigation charts and sonar information remain accurate and real-time even in complex electronic environments, providing enhanced operational assurance for maritime safety. According to a report by Global Market Insights, the global yacht market was valued at USD 12.4 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 22.7 billion by 2034, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.4%. This steady market growth is being driven by rising disposable incomes and the growing popularity of luxury leisure activities, which in turn is fuelling strong demand for advanced onboard equipment and highly reliable navigation systems in yacht applications.

Phil Yu, CEO of DATA IMAGE, said: “We are committed to leveraging our extensive expertise in rugged outdoor display technologies to create practical, high-value applications. Whether it is our newly introduced Rugged FPD-Link Display Solution for Marine Applications or our AC/DC charging applications showcased this year with DFI, we continue to demonstrate DATA IMAGE’s integration capabilities in expanding rugged technologies into new markets and create value across diverse deployment environments.”

The Rugged FPD-Link Display Solution for marine applications demonstrates DATA IMAGE’s integration capabilities across display technologies and embedded computing. In addition to enhancing the value of rugged human-machine interface (HMI) systems, the solution combines optical bonding and wide temperature design to withstand the harsh challenges of marine environments. Furthermore, it breaks through long-distance transmission constraints to enable a single-cable, high-reliability marine display network. Looking ahead, DATA IMAGE will continue to advance system-level solutions that meet increasingly demanding requirements for durability and reliability across a wide range of industries.

Crest Audio, a brand of Peavey Electronics Corporation

Announced the introduction of two new PoE++ powered loudspeakers: the CiP 26 and the CiP 5. Designed for today’s fully networked AV environments, both models combine professional sound quality with streamlined, network-cable installation — reflecting the growing shift toward smarter, more scalable commercial audio systems. As organisations increasingly adopt networked-based infrastructures, the need for loudspeakers that integrate seamlessly into AVoIP ecosystems continues to grow. The CiP Series answers that demand by delivering both power, control and audio over a single Ethernet cable using PoE++ (IEEE 802.3bt Type 4 90W), removing the requirement for local mains power or separate amplifier racks. The result is cleaner installations, faster deployment and greater flexibility for integrators and end users alike. Commenting on the launch, Christoph Sesseck, Sales Manager EMEA for Peavey Commercial Audio, said: “We are seeing a clear shift toward network-first audio design. Integrators want solutions that reduce infrastructure complexity while maintaining professional performance standards. With these latest additions to our CiP speaker line, we are giving our partners scalable loudspeaker options that combine the latest networking protocols integration, PoE++ simplicity and the sonic character that Crest Audio is known for. It’s about making high-quality commercial audio easier to deploy and easier to manage.”

The CiP 26 is a compact, yet high-output, two-way loudspeaker designed for applications where full-range performance and musical impact matter. Featuring dual 6.5-inch woofers paired with a 1-inch dynamic tweeter, its bi-amplified architecture delivers clarity and headroom, reaching peak sound pressure levels of 103 dB at one metre. With a frequency response spanning 65 Hz to 20 kHz and a wide 120° horizontal by 75° vertical coverage pattern, the CiP 26 is equally at home delivering dynamic foreground music in hospitality venues as it is supporting speech and presentation audio in larger collaboration spaces. A supplied wall-mount bracket simplifies installation, with connectivity coming via a single RJ-45 connector.

Complementing the CiP 26, the CiP 5 offers a compact solution tailored for a more controlled soundstage. Equipped with a premium 5.25-inch woofer and 0.75-inch tweeter in a bi-amplified configuration, it delivers up to 101 dB peak SPL with a more focused 90° by 60° sound dispersion pattern.

This makes it ideally suited to boardrooms, classrooms, meeting rooms, boutique retail spaces and distributed background music systems where intelligibility and tonal balance are essential. Like the CiP 26, the CiP 5 supports Dante and AES67 (sNET) audio networking and PoE++ power over a single Ethernet cable, with optional 24VDC external power available where required. Its compact enclosure and included U-bracket allow for quick, secure installation across a wide range of commercial settings. Together, every loudspeaker in the CiP range shares the same design philosophy: professional performance delivered through simplified infrastructure. Whether supporting distributed background music or driving higher-energy foreground applications, the CiP Series gives integrators a cohesive, scalable solution that reflects how modern commercial audio systems are designed

Starfish highlights flexible TS Splicer and new monitoring dashboard

Starfish Technologies presented the latest releases of its TS Splicer (Win) and TS Splicer (K8) at NAB Show 2026, together with a new Monitoring Dashboard designed to give operators greater operational oversight across their deployments. TS Splicer has a wide range of functionality for processing encoded media streams, including clean switching of live feeds, ad replacement, regional program substitution, SCTE35 processing and logo insertion. It operates with MPEG-2, H.264 and HEVC/H.265 streams across SD, HD and UHD services, and includes support for SMPTE 2022-7 input protection. The capabilities are extensive and include numerous refinements developed in response to user feedback gathered over many years of supplying this technology.

The updated releases are designed for flexible deployment across on-premises, cloud and hybrid infrastructures. A single software installation provides access to a range of configurable options, which can be enabled or disabled remotely as operational needs change. This approach allows systems to scale or adapt without reinstalling or replacing the underlying platform. Alongside the splicer updates, Starfish will demonstrate its new Monitoring Dashboard. The dashboard provides a consolidated view of running services and system status, helping engineering teams supervise distributed environments more efficiently and respond quickly to operational changes. Starfish transport stream processing is delivered as a suite of software applications running on Windows servers, as TS Splicer (Win), or within Kubernetes environments as TS Splicer (K8) A comprehensive REST API supports integration with automation, control and monitoring systems. Starfish solutions are currently deployed in more than 1,000 live channels worldwide. “Our customers want transport stream processing that is straightforward to deploy, simple to manage and flexible enough to evolve,” said Peter Blatchford, CMO at Starfish Technologies. “By installing the software once and enabling functionality as required, operators can add and remove features quickly and easily. Combined with the new Monitoring Dashboard, it gives them both control and visibility across their services.”

AV Production

uses Sennheiser Spectera for control and clarity

Singapore-based AV Production (AVP) is a production house specialising in concert productions and festivals. Beyond event services, AVP’s founder, Favian Ngan, is also an active touring monitor engineer and works with many leading Asian artists. This dual role gives Favian a unique perspective, balancing long-term system design with the fast-paced demands of large-scale live touring. Currently serving as monitor engineer on a major international world tour with more than 70 shows completed, Favian operates in some of the most demanding live sound environments. From large indoor arenas to outdoor stadiums with expansive stages and catwalks, delivering stable and consistent in-ear monitoring has become increasingly complex, particularly as the RF spectrum grows more congested and often becomes unpredictable across international touring circuits.

Like many touring engineers, Favian’s workflow used to rely heavily on industry-standard analogue IEM systems. While dependable for years, these systems were increasingly strained by modern production demands. “In many venues, the RF environment has become increasingly challenging, with noise floors rising to unpredictable levels,” Favian explains. “A frequency that appears clean during soundcheck can suddenly become unusable during the show. Modern concerts often incorporate extensive LED walls, LED light sticks, effect lighting, and even anti-drone jammers, all of which contribute to this instability.”

Managing large channel counts across wide stages often meant constant troubleshooting, especially when artists moved freely across the performance area or into the audience. At the same time, older systems in his inventory were due for renewal, prompting Favian to look for a solution that could move beyond the limitations inherent to analogue wireless. During an industry event, Favian was introduced to Spectera by Darryl Tan, Business Development Manager at Sennheiser. “He told me that a powerful new wireless system would be launching soon, and that it would be well suited for a production company like mine,” Favian recalls. “Because it caters to touring production requirements in a very small form factor, he felt it would make a real difference to how we tour with gear on the road. As part of this early engagement, Favian became one of the customers under the Spectera Pioneer Programme. Ahead of the official launch, Darryl brought a demo set to Favian and facilitated hands-on demos, technical briefings and on-site support to ensure the system could be deployed confidently in a demanding touring environment. “Spectera uses WMAS technology and it was something completely new to me,” Favian says. “It was also positioned as a very different system, so I wanted to hear it and test it for myself.”

Listening tests immediately revealed a noticeable improvement in audio quality. Yet the true measure of performance lay in RF stability and usability, factors that could only be validated under the demanding conditions of live touring. The system’s first deployment took place at a major stop of the tour in an 80,000-seat Olympic sports stadium, beginning with rehearsals and culminating in its use during the live performance itself. One of Spectera’s most immediate advantages was its multi-antenna capability. Unlike analogue systems, which typically rely on a single antenna for IEMs, Spectera allows up to four antennas to operate simultaneously. “Our

stages can be over 120 metres wide with central catwalks,” Favian explains. “With analogue systems, there is no perfect antenna position. You are always compromising.”

Favian first deployed Spectera at a major stop on the tour as part of the Sennheiser Spectera Pioneer Programme. With Spectera, antennas could be placed strategically across the stage, including along the catwalk, delivering consistent RF performance throughout the performance area. The move from BNC cabling to CAT6 further simplified setup, enabling long cable runs without signal loss, a major advantage in large arenas and stadiums. Beyond RF stability, Spectera transformed Favian’s day-to-day monitor workflow. The system provides real-time feedback from each bodypack, including battery status, RF levels and connection status. “With analogue systems, if something goes wrong on stage, you are guessing and troubleshooting endlessly,” he says. “There is no easy way to deduce whether it is the battery, the pack or just RF interference.”

Frequency coordination has never been more straightforward. Spectera requires only a 6 MHz bandwidth to operate. In contrast, traditional analogue systems consistently face challenges related to frequency allocation and intermodulation interference. He also added, “As productions grow in scale and demand, additional wireless channels are often introduced, which increases the risk of intermodulation distortion and complicates the overall coordination process”.

Spectera, powered by Sennheiser WMAS technology, overcomes traditional coordination challenges by enabling multiple transceivers to operate concurrently in a single wideband RF channel. This is achieved through a combination of time division multiple access (TDMA), time division duplex (TDD) and orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), maximizing RF efficiency. The result is a streamlined solution that supports expanding channel requirements without introducing interference or compromising performance.

One feature that quickly became essential was volume monitoring. During quick costume changes, artists’ packs may be unintentionally adjusted. Spectera allows Favian to remotely monitor the pack status and set levels, ensuring consistency throughout the show. “My artist now feels very confident on stage,” he adds. “He knows the volume will always be exactly where it should be.” For the artists themselves, the most noticeable change was sound quality. Moving from analogue to digital eliminated compression and expansion artefacts, resulting in a more natural and open sound. “The stereo image is extremely wide,” Favian explains. “Left and right are truly independent, which lets me space my instruments creatively.” This clarity proved especially valuable for vocal-led performances. With instruments spread cleanly across the stereo field, vocals remained centred and unobstructed, helping artists hear more clearly and perform with greater comfort.

Favian currently runs 22 Spectera bodypacks with two Base Stations. Different audio modes are used based on performer needs, with ultra-low latency reserved for the artist and monitor engineer, while other musicians and the production crew operate on low-latency or live modes. “Latency remains a critical consideration for performers, particularly singers and musicians. Spectera sets a new benchmark with an exceptionally low IEM latency of just 0.7 milliseconds, which is the lowest available in any digital wireless in-ear monitoring system”, Favian explains. “This latency is vital for vocalists as it helps minimise bone-conduction interference and reduces the risk of comb filtering effects.”

From a logistics perspective, Spectera’s compact footprint also streamlines touring. Each system occupies just one rack unit, making transportation significantly more efficient than traditional systems. Spectera is an IP-based system that enables full control through a web user interface. “The ability to manage Spectera via the Spectera WebUI has been a game changer,” Favian notes. “I can walk around the venue with my iPad, or even just a phone, and can instantly view the status of every pack and antenna.”

Adopting Spectera early meant working closely with Sennheiser’s technical team as the system continued to evolve. Regular firmware updates and hands-on support ensured stability and continuous improvement throughout the tour. Behind the scenes, the transition to Spectera was supported by close collaboration between AV Production, Sennheiser and Concept Systems, Sennheiser’s preferred partner for Spectera in Singapore. From RF planning guidance to workflow optimisation and system configuration, the local team played a critical role in accelerating adoption. Combined with direct technical engagement from Sennheiser’s technical application engineering team, the partnership ensured that AVP not only integrated Spectera smoothly into its touring setup but could also maximise its capabilities across increasingly complex international show environments.

Spectera has now become a core part of Favian’s touring workflow, and one he now actively recommends to peers. “When you compare it side by side with other systems, you can clearly hear the difference,” he says. “But beyond sound

Meydan Racecourse in Dubai is a world-renowned venue, home to the Dubai scene.

quality, it is the control, RF stability and confidence it gives you during a show.” For AV Production and Favian, Spectera is no longer an experiment. It is an essential tool, redefining what is possible for modern touring and large-scale live productions.

VITEC delivers ultra-low latency IPTV & digital signage

Meydan Racecourse in Dubai is a world-renowned venue, home to the Dubai World Cup and a centrepiece of the region’s sporting and hospitality scene. With an 80,000-seat grandstand, luxury suites, restaurants, and a five-star hotel, Meydan required state-of-the-art media delivery system to enhance the guest experience, deliver low latency video streams, and maximize sponsor engagement. VITEC’s IPTV and digital signage platform was chosen to deliver broadcast-quality video and dynamic content across this iconic venue. Meydan Racecourse is globally recognized for hosting prestigious international horse racing and entertainment events. Its scale and reputation demand world-class technology and guest services. To maintain its leadership in the competitive sports and hospitality sector, Meydan continually invests in innovative infrastructure and technology.

The project presented several challenges. Meydan’s vast infrastructure spans multiple zones, each with unique requirements, from VIP suites needing 4K video and personal-

ized content, to public concourses and hospitality areas requiring robust live feeds and dynamic signage. The existing media systems were outdated and lacked the flexibility, reliability, and performance needed for modern, high-profile events. Managing content across hundreds of screens was time-consuming and inefficient, and the venue needed a platform to deliver impactful, targeted messaging for sponsors. In live horse racing, even a one-second delay can disrupt the immersive experience for guests and bettors, making ultra-low latency a critical requirement.

VITEC deployed its award-winning IPTV & Digital Signage Platform, tailored to Meydan’s demanding requirements. The solution featured MGW Diamond encoders, which deliver sub-second latency using advanced HEVC (H.265) and H.264 compression, ensuring real-time, broadcast-quality video throughout the venue. SDI feeds are encoded from professional broadcast cameras used around the track. Over 600 VITEC 4K Digital Signage Players were installed, providing silent, fanless, hardware-based endpoints for seamless 4K playback and dynamic signage overlays.

The VITEC platform enabled zone-based content distribution, real-time monitoring, and role-based access control, all managed from a single web-based dashboard. The integrated CMS allows for scheduled promotional content, sponsor ads, event schedules, safety messages, and emergency overrides. Multicast streaming and VLAN segmentation ensured efficient bandwidth usage and reliable content delivery without impacting other venue operations. VITEC also conducted a thorough site assessment to integrate with Meydan’s existing infrastructure, minimizing disruption and ensuring compatibility.

The transformation has been significant. Guests now enjoy immersive, real-time race coverage and engaging digital signage throughout the venue. VIP suites, restaurants, and public areas benefit from high-quality, synchronized content. Sponsors report improved visibility and audience interaction, with the ability to deliver animated, interactive, and time-sensitive content at key moments. This centralized management has streamlined workflows and improved reliability, while real-time diagnostics allow technical staff to quickly resolve issues. Since deployment, Meydan has seen improvements to its metrics since the system went live, including increased screen uptime, reduced latency complaints, higher sponsor engagement, operational time savings, and enhanced guest satisfaction.

“Our vision at Meydan has always been to set the standard for world-class sporting and entertainment experiences,” says Ahmad Bsat, Business Development Manager at VITEC. “Partnering with Meydan has enabled us to deliver live content and information to every corner of our venue, ensuring that every guest, whether in a private suite or the grandstand, enjoys an unforgettable race day.”

Dubai World Cup and a centrepiece of the region’s sporting and hospitality

How secure is your signage?

Real-world incidents of hacking or otherwise disrupting digital signage deployments are surprisingly commonplace, almost invariably public and frequently embarrassing. Given the prevalence of digital signage in public arenas like transportation hubs, retail outlets, sports and entertainment venues, the potential for reputational damage and /or financial loss is considerable. AV News looks at examples of attacks on digital signage, common areas of vulnerability, and the best available means of protecting an installation.

Imagine you are out shopping in Cardiff City Centre. In the last 10 years, Cardiff has attracted considerable investment in its retail facilities, improved transportation, and sport and entertainment facilities. It promised to be an ideal location for the latest in digital public awareness signage. And so it was until 2017, when offensive messages and images were displayed on a city centre billboard, prompting police involvement and a public outcry. Images including Swastikas and other far-right symbols appeared on the Queen Street billboard (in Cardiff’s main shopping district) after hackers took over control of the screen, claiming that there was an “inbuilt vulnerability” in the screen. The display was shut down overnight following public complaints and a police investigation. Another example from the UK saw the flight information display system (FIDS) at Bristol Airport shut down, disrupting passenger information and forcing staff to rely on manual updates. While this act does not seem as serious as some, airport signage is universally regarded as ‘mission-critical’. Passengers rely on FIDS for flight schedules, plus any emergency alerts or notifications. This is an example of an installation which takes digital signage beyond marketing infrastructure, raising its status in airports to critical operational infrastructure. And it is not just about displays. As recently as last year, multiple airports in North America had both their flight displays and PA systems hacked simultaneously, broadcasting political messages and chants. Kelowna International Airport, Victoria International Airport and Harrisburg International Airport had fake messages displayed on airport screens and political propaganda broadcast on their PA systems.

The flight information display system (FIDS) at Bristol Airport was shut down after a cyber-attack, disrupting passenger information and forcing staff to rely on manual updates.

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The nature of cyberthreats

With the widespread adoption of digital signage, it would be easy to fill this article with dozens of global instances of attacks. From the hijack of signage at Union Station and the subsequent display of pornographic video during rush hour, to the 2024 cyber-attack on two Chicago digital billboards with displays of antisemitic messages. While the majority of cyber threats discussed so far can be loosely bundled together as examples of ‘hacking’, others can be best described as ‘physical attacks’ on an installation. In a case in Detroit, the perpetrators broke into the equipment shed under a billboard. They connected a laptop to the display controller and played explicit video content. In other instances, no physical attack was actually necessary because the protection arranged by either the installer or the operator of the installation was so weak, it could be defeated with minimal effort. A digital billboard in Alabama, for example, was hacked during the 2016 US election and used to mock a candidate with edited images. Investigators discovered the system used extremely weak credentials, namely ‘admin/admin’, which offered little or no protection.

Identifying the vulnerabilities of digital signage

Protecting digital signage networks from cybersecurity threats requires securing devices, content management systems, networks, and physical access to equipment. Because signage screens are often internet-connected and publicly accessible, they can become easy targets for attackers if not properly secured. Digital signage installations are usually subject to a number of different cyber threats. These can include:

•Unauthorised screen takeover

•Malware infection of media players

•CMS credential theft

•Network intrusion via poorly secured devices.

•Content spoofing or defacement

In real-world digital signage deployments, several vulnerabilities often appear simultaneously across organisations. These weaknesses usually occur because signage systems are often treated as ‘set-and-forget’ devices rather than managed IT assets. The most common vulnerabilities uncovered in audits and security enquiries include:

oDefault or weak credentials; Many signage players and CMS systems still run with factory usernames and passwords. Security research shows default credentials remain one of the most common weaknesses in digital signage systems. In these circumstances, attackers can log in remotely and control displays. They can also change content or access the network.

oUnpatched software and firmware: Many signage devices run outdated operating systems or firmware for years. Attackers frequently scan the internet for known vulnerabilities in old versions of CMS software or device firmware.

Poor network segmentation: Digital signage devices are often connected directly to corporate networks. If a player is compromised, attackers can move laterally into the corporate infrastructure. Signage can act as an entry point into enterprise systems when connected to the same network.

Unencrypted communication: Some signage deployments still transmit data using unencrypted protocols. This allows attackers to perform Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attacks, in-

Images including Swastikas and other far-right symbols appeared on hackers took over control of the screen, claiming that there was an “inbuilt

tercepting or altering content sent to screens.

Physical access to devices: Digital signage hardware is often installed in public areas like airports, retail stores, restaurants, or hotels. Physical access allows malware installation or configuration changes. Attackers can: plug in malicious USB drives; replace SD cards; and access HDMI or Ethernet ports.

Malware and ransomware infections: Signage players run operating systems such as Android, Linux, or Windows, making them vulnerable to malware. Malware can disrupt displays or spread across the network.

Weak content management security: The CMS platform controlling screens can be exploited if poorly configured. Common vulnerabilities include unrestricted file uploads, SQL injection, and weak role-based access control. If compromised, attackers can broadcast malicious or fake information to every screen in the network.

Insecure third-party integrations: Digital signage platforms integrate with social media feeds, live dashboards, POS systems, and external APIs. Each integration introduces potential vulnerabilities if the third-party system is insecure.

oInsider threats: Employees or contractors with system access can abuse privileges. These include uploading malicious content, changing schedules, and stealing data from CMS systems.

Lack of monitoring and logging: Many signage networks lack security monitoring, intrusion detection, and log analysis. Consequently, attackers can stay undetected for long periods.

FEATURE

the Queen Street billboard (in Cardiff’s main shopping district) after “inbuilt vulnerability” in the screen. (Photo credit: BBC News).

Despite the media portrayal of glamorous and brilliant hackers, most signage breaches are not due to clever or advanced hacking techniques. They occur because of basic security failures - default passwords, outdated software, and poor network segmentation. Often, simple observance of best practice and routine housekeeping will keep a signage install secure. Failure to follow these guidelines will result in compromised solutions where attackers can: deface public displays; spread propaganda or offensive content; launch ransomware attacks; use devices as botnet nodes; or pivot into corporate networks.

Protecting the digital signage network

So, how should digital signage deployments be protected? The advice here is to secure the network infrastructure. Digital signage players and displays usually communicate with a Content Management System (CMS) over the network. Best practice here is to separate the signage network from corporate IT. Next, implement firewalls to restrict inbound/outbound traffic. You can use VPN connections for remote management. Disable unused ports and services and use secure protocols like HTTPS, SSH, and SFTP. Secure digital signage players: Signage players (miniPCs, media players, or SoCs in displays) are often the weakest link. Change default passwords immediately; enable full disk encryption; apply regular OS and firmware updates; disable USB ports if not required; and use secure boot to prevent unauthorised firmware.

Secure the Content Management System (CMS): As the CMS controls what appears on screen, it is a high-value target. Security measures include enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA); using role-based access control (RBAC); monitoring login attempts and administrative activity; and hosting the CMS in a secure cloud or hardened server environment.

Protect content distribution: Attackers sometimes target signage to display unauthorised or malicious content: Use content signing to verify authenticity; Encrypt data in transit using TLS/SSL; Scan uploaded media for malware; and restrict who can upload or schedule content.

Monitor and detect threats: Continuous monitoring helps detect attacks early. Tools and methods for this include Network Monitoring systems; Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS); Security Information and Event Management (SIEM); and log monitoring for unusual player behaviour.

Physical security: Screens and players are often installed in public locations, making physical tampering possible. Lock media players inside secure enclosures; disable local keyboard/mouse access; use tamper-resistant mounts; and monitor locations with CCTV.

Conduct regular security maintenance: Security should be ongoing rather than a one-time setup. Perform regular vulnerability scans; conduct penetration testing; maintain patch management schedules; and backup CMS databases and content regularly.

Remember, attackers like targeting signage because it gives instant public visibility and notoriety. It often causes embarrassment and reputational damage. It may provide access to internal corporate networks. A compromised screen in a busy location can reach thousands of people within minutes. Protecting a digital signage network from cybersecurity threats requires securing devices, content management systems, networks, and physical access. Because signage screens are often internet-connected and publicly accessible, they can become easy targets for attackers if not properly secured.

Protecting a digital signage network requires treating it like any other connected IT system: harden every device, secure the network, lock down the CMS, and continuously monitor for threats. Recent incidents -including hacked menu boards and unauthorized political messages -show how quickly unsecured signage can become a brand and security liability. Nearly 300 digital menu boards were hacked in 2025, displaying unauthorised political content, highlighting the reputational and operational risks of weak security.

How will audio visual technology impact the future of music festivals?

Audio-visual (AV) technology is already impacting music festivals, and over the next decade it will likely further transform how festivals look, sound, and feel - both for people attending in person and those joining remotely. Here are the major ways AV technology is expected to impact the future of music festivals, Bryan Denyer reports with thanks to AV News Award nominees, Delta Live (a Groupe Novelty company) and Naostage for their contributions.

Festivals and largescale outdoor musical events have certainly changed since my first involvement, at the age of 20 as part of the ‘security team’ for the Rolling Stones performance at Knebworth in 1976. Immersion and audience involvement was limited to lighting, dancing and extremely dangerous bonfires in the crowd (not good, but at least it kept us warm after dark). Nowadays, those attending similar events expect a bit more, to the point where festivals and large outdoor event are moving beyond straightforward lighting and audio effect to fully immersive environments. Examples of the direct involvement of AV technologies in the festival landscape include the adoption of LED walls in place of traditional backdrops; the use of projection mapping to turn stages, buildings, and landscapes into moving visuals; the deployment of 3D visuals and volumetric effects synced with music; and the increasing use of augmented reality visuals visible select ably through phones or special glasses.

The extent to which AV technology is deployed at one time depended on the scale, and therefore the budget, of the event – but, as we will see later that is somewhat less of a factor as the cost of AV technology has fallen. Nonetheless, it is the major US festivals, like Tomorrowland and Coachella, and their equivalents in Europe, that already use large-scale

visual storytelling to create themed worlds- and the expectation is that this trend will only grow. Audiences won’t just watch performances - they’ll feel like they’re inside them.

Even those organisers sticking to the traditional formulae for festivals will find that, for example, lighting solutions are becoming more intelligent and automated. AI-powered lighting programmed to react to tempo, crowd movement, or mood is available. Dynamic stage designs can be arranged to change throughout a set with real-time synchronisation between sound, lights, and visuals. Some of the most memorable recent events have featured wearable lights or LED wristbands synchronised throughout the crowd. Drones carrying lights are an increasingly popular option for outdoor events. The impact of adopting these and other technologies will be to make performances feel more alive and responsive.

The expert contributors to this article observe that: “Festivals have clearly evolved into multi-sensory environments, as audiences now expect more than just sound and visuals, they want to feel immersed and connected to the performance. At Naostage, we see this shift through real-world deployments in festivals such as Poupet, as well as in concerts and live productions where we witness a strong demand for interactivity. The audience wants every movement to contribute to the visual experience, reinforcing the multi-sensory nature of modern festivals.”

It’s all about the sound

There is no doubt than audio quality has improved immeasurably since my limited Rolling Stones experience. Audio quality was best described as ‘OK’, but it has improved, dramatically due in no small part to new speaker technologies. Advanced speaker arrays can now ensure clear sound everywhere. Other innovations include the development of Spatial

Audio that creates 3D sound environments, and even personalised listening zones and other wearable audio technologies. Festivals like Glastonbury, and other multistage events, have already experimented with cutting-edge sound layouts and noise control systems that reduce sound bleed between stages.

Rather saying that it’s all about the sound, perhaps it’s better to say that festivals are mostly about the sound, but that visuals are increasingly important to delivering a true festival experience. To that end we have seen some recent innovations that really make a difference. Take the traditional fireworks at the end of headline sets the world over. These are widely regarded as a bit ‘old hat’. Drone technology is replacing or augmenting fireworks in leading events. Coordinated drone light shows which move aerial visuals above crowds provide safer alternatives to fireworks. Our experts concur: “Audiences are physically involved through dancing, low-frequency bass vibrations, interactive installations, and sensory effects (lighting, heat, smoke). In addition, participatory activities (workshops, immersive performances) turn festivalgoers into active participants. However, this level of immersion still varies across events. This diversity is evident in many events, where immersion is shaped by a different relationship between the audience and the performance. Rather than relying on high-intensity physical stimulation, the experience is built around musical nuance, atmosphere, and visual coherence. In this context, audience engagement emerges through the interplay between artists, staging, and subtle audiovisual elements, illustrating how immersion can be more refined and atmospheric while remaining deeply engaging.”

In the virtual and immersive world and immersive environment of a festival, the social issues of safety, crime, narcotics and drunkenness have become increasingly problematic. AV technology has been shown to improve festival safety and organisation in general. Smart camera systems monitor crowd

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density. Digital wayfinding screens help with crowd control, with AI predicting overcrowding risks and providing surveillance: “Safety has become a major priority for festival organisers, supported by technologies such as real-time crowd monitoring, AI-driven analytics to prevent overcrowding, and advanced surveillance systems. Mobile apps also play a key role by enabling attendees to receive alerts, access emergency information, or report incidents quickly. In this context, tracking technologies are opening new possibilities for crowd management. We at Naostage are already working on deploying and scaling these systems to support control centres with real-time insights into audience movement and density. This helps anticipate overcrowding, count people, and monitor flow dynamics across different areas. In case of an incident, specific zones can be instantly highlighted using lighting or visual cues, triggered directly by operators pointing to a location on their interface, allowing security or medical teams to respond more quickly. These systems can also help identify bottlenecks, guide crowd movement, and adapt responses in real time, contributing to safer festival environments. Inclusiveness is increasingly addressed through technology by improving accessibility and user experience for diverse audiences. This includes features such as audio descriptions, visual aids, translation tools, and enhanced navigation systems, helping make festivals more accessible and welcoming to all.”

Virtual event digital options

Festivals are traditionally in-person social events, but not everyone will attend festival in person. AV technology enables remote participation and adds additional revenue streams for event organisers, performers and their representatives. Options for live streamed content now include multi-camera production; Virtual Reality (VR) concerts; 360° immersive broadcasts; and increase the reach of an event to global audiences

joining in real time. Many believe that festivals will become global digital events, rather than just physical gatherings. In addition to increasing the reach of an event, digital tools and techniques also enable audiences to become part of the show rather than just spectators. Recent example of digital engagement include crowd voting on visuals or lighting effects; interactive apps controlling parts of the experience; AR scavenger hunts across festival grounds; and real-time audience participation via mobile devices. Our expert contributors caution that deployment of advanced AV technologies is far from mainstream: “The most widely used AV technologies at festivals combine immersive visuals, advanced lighting, and powerful audio systems to create engaging live experiences. What used to be simple augmented displays helping distant audiences see the stage more clearly have now become fully integrated elements of scenography and interactive design. At the core of these setups lies a key technology: tracking. It enables real-time adaptation and precise synchronisation between performers and audiovisual elements, making the entire experience more responsive and coherent. As festivals evolve, tracking remains a fundamental building block of immersive live production.”

However, our experts believe that live, in-person festivals are unlikely to give way to the virtual alternative in the short to medium term: “While AV technologies are technically capable of blurring the boundary between physical and remote attendance - through high-quality livestreams, multi-angle viewing, or even virtual performers – these will unlikely become dominant in the near future. Festivals are fundamentally social experiences, where people seek to share moments together in a physical space. Although AV technologies can enhance access and create hybrid formats, it is unlikely that fully remote festivals or AI/virtual artists will replace in-person experiences anytime soon.”

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The emergence of AI in festival culture

As with most things, Artificial Intelligence is making its way into the festival space: “AI is increasingly integrated into immersive festival technologies. It powers real-time visual engines to generate reactive visuals that adapt to the music or crowd, and enhances lighting and stage effects through automated, responsive control systems. In sound design, AI can help optimise spatial audio in real time based on the environment or audience movement. For example, at Jazzopen Stuttgart, we deployed our K SYSTEM, which uses computer vision and AI to track performers live on stage. By interfacing with the d&b Soundscape system, we enabled precise, real-time spatialisation of sound fully synchronised with the artists’ movements, making the audio experience more dynamic and immersive for the audience.”

And what of that other emerging technology that some believe will takeover our lives, festivals notwithstanding/ Our experts believe ‘not so much’: “AR can be used at festivals, but its impact remains limited when it relies on individual devices that isolate users from the shared live experience. We believe that immersive experiences should first and foremost be lived together in real life. Rather than focusing on personal screens, tracking allows people to become part of the experience through their physical presence. By capturing movements in real time, audiences and performers can directly influence and control audiovisual elements, creating a collective and responsive environment where immersion is shared rather than individual.”

Sustainability of festival environments

One area where there is a great deal more agreement is that of the environment. In respect of sustainability, festivals have a problem baked into their very nature. While it is entirely possible to deal with environmental issues within the festival site, the mere fact of moving tens. or even hundreds, of thousands of artists, audience members and crew to the festival site inevitably carries an environmental penalty.

Within the festival site, AV technology can definitely help reduce environmental impact. For example, LED screens are replacing physical stage materials; energy-efficiency of lighting rigs is far more of an issue today; digital signage is increasingly replacing printed materials; and power management, in general, is much more environmentally friendly. The challenge is to deliver the spectacle of the festival experience without compromising sustainability. “Festivals have historically faced challenges in terms of sustainability, but significant efforts are now being made to improve their environmental impact. These include reducing single-use plastics, implementing recycling and waste management systems, and promoting reusable cups and materials. Many festivals are also investing in renewable energy sources, optimising transport and logistics, and encouraging more sustainable travel options for attendees. In addition, digital technologies help reduce physical waste (e.g. paperless tickets, cashless systems). While progress is being made, sustainability remains an ongoing challenge for the industry”.

The festival business model

Are compromises on sustainability an inevitable consequence of festivals getting bigger and bigger as the most popular artists are marketed globally? Audiences seem

willing to travel longer distances by road or even by air to see their favourite artists. There is a school of thought that argues that advances in AV technology will support bid festival features and capabilities in smaller events. While the global superstars might be missing from such events, smaller festivals open up the potential for diversity of musical styles and specialist cultural elements in the event programme. The costs of event technology are dropping, with the result that even local festivals can use large LED solutions. Portable sound solutions becoming more powerful, and visual effects are increasingly affordable for smaller events. Many performers appreciate the growing importance of establishing a strong visual identity which goes beyond the traditional video promo. Artists like Björk and Billie Eilish now incorporate strong visual storytelling into their live shows.

In summary, festival performances will feel more like multi-sensory digital experiences, rather than just concerts festival could offer novel features, such as gamification. Our experts feel that the logistics of offering gamification at scale could make it impossible: “From a personal perspective, examples of “gamified” festival environments remain quite limited, particularly in France. Events like ‘We Love Green’ or ‘Les Vieilles Charrues’ have introduced light interactive features such as app-based challenges or branded activations that encourage exploration and participation. However, these remain relatively basic forms of gamification rather than fully developed mixed-reality worlds. One of the reasons is the complexity of deploying such systems at scale: these setups

can be difficult to maintain and may not withstand the constraints of dense, crowded environments.”

Whether the festival multisensory festival experience develops to include a greater reliance of personalisation, gamification, AI or AR, it will undoubtedly change and, in some respects, thank goodness for that! internet speed than, say, cell tower proximity is for a traditional phone call.

Audio quality depends on four key factors: (1) the sample rate The number of digital samples taken per second from the original analogue audio. A higher sample rate generally means higher quality audio; (2) the Bitrate, as measured in kilobits per second (kbps). Like sample rate, a higher bitrate often generates better audio quality; (3) the Audio codec - the algorithms that compress and decompress digital audio; and (4) Bandwidth - maybe the most critical element for audio quality in VoIP calls and video meetings. With a faster internet speed, wideband and full band codecs are available, which provide HD audio. Even a handful of participants in a meeting, some using a cell network via their smartphone, others using laptops or other devices, and all using with varying internet speeds and providers. Despite the inherent problems associate with reconciling these issues, use of hybrid collaboration is now so commonplace that “video conferencing exhaustion” with is now very much a thing. Webex reports that 61%

of users have experienced “video meeting fatigue”. Some 90% of users experience collaboration issues when working from home. In terms of audio, problems include, stretched bandwidth causing audio quality to suffer; reverberant sound makes the audio experience grating for everyone; crosstalk is particularly challenging for those who reluctant speakers; and, finally, background noise can completely undermine the meeting. Sound is such a core aspect of our daily work experience, whether we’re collaborating or simply making our way in the world. “Sound is tricky. It can annoy and distract as easily as it can aid. One of the virtues of sounds is that they can be detected even when attention is applied elsewhere. But this virtue is also a deficit, for sounds are often intrusive.” For remote and hybrid workers, particularly those working from home, are often tempted to compromise on their collaboration hardware. Moving away from the laptop mic to a headset, for example, can transform the meeting experience.

Optimizing the office experience

Collab AV is a specialist in the provision of end-to-end AV and collaboration services in workplaces. The company partners with small to medium-sized organisations to design, deliver, and support technology that fits the way its teams work - across offices, remote environments, and a wide range of spaces. From initial consultation through to installation, training, and ongoing support. Collaboration now happens everywhere — in open work areas, project spaces, town halls, training rooms, cafés, and across entire corporate estates. When audio quality breaks down in these spaces, the impact is amplified, not isolated.

The corporate estate is now an interconnected system of experiences, users moving between spaces throughout the day, carrying expectations shaped by what worked, or didn’t, in the last interaction. Inconsistent audio performance across the business creates friction: examples include meetings that feel effortless in one space and exhausting in another; hybrid town halls where remote staff feel disconnected; informal collaboration zones that discourage conversation due to noise or poor intelligibility. When audio quality works consistently, it builds trust and successful collaboration. When it doesn’t, people disengage or avoid certain spaces altogether.

Town halls, training rooms, atria, and divisible spaces place heavy demands on audio systems, with factors including varying numbers of participants, multiple use cases and hybrid participation, often at scale Audio systems should adapt dynamically, not rely on manual reconfiguration. Cafés, breakout zones, and informal seating are increasingly used for work conversations and hybrid calls - even if they weren’t originally designed for them. Turning a blind eye doesn’t stop collaboration from happening in these impromptu spaces, it just risks a poor experience. Collab AV believes that audio consistency becomes an inclusion issue. Without a unified strategy, organisations can quickly become

fragmented - with different standards, behaviours, and user experiences operating across the organisation. Design-led environments that ignore acoustics often create the most challenging audio conditions. Visual consistency must be matched by acoustic performance. Designing audio across an entire corporate estate requires identifying strategic intent, not just technical coordination. Even before touching suitable technologies, working with stakeholders should define how collaboration should ‘feel’ across the organisation and how in-person and remote experiences should be balanced. With these parameters in mind, it is possible to assign flexible space technologies, including AI assisted noise management, automatic microphone zoning and usage analytics to optimise solution performance and plan upgrades.

The future workplace

Collab AV argues that the future workplace will be a predominantly audio experience irrespective of whether the location is corporate office or remote. The nature of the collaborative space and to the work activity will determine the nature of the appropriate technology. For many users in applications as diverse as education, business and institutions including regional and national government the answer must be that accurate and efficient communication is very important. “In modern workplaces, professionals are using digital tools and platforms to communicate, share, and co-create with colleagues, clients, and partners, like never before,” explains Steven Schmidt, VP, Global Commercial Innovation & Marketing. “Today’s workforces are reliant on these digital tools and platforms to enable successful communication, including clear calls where both sides of the conversation can be heard. Video collaboration tools have gained popularity very quickly, where high picture quality is paramount. It could be argued audio is even more important though, as if you can’t be heard then the communication is over!” EPOS offers a range of personal communication solutions, including headsets, cameras and microphones which can be used even in open plan spaces.

Schmidt continued: “Every interaction matters more than ever, whether on a video call, standard call or collaborating with a colleague. Customer and staff expectations continue to rise where everyone must remain as professional as possible. Voice pick-up is the number one factor with high quality microphones at the heart of this process. Voice authenticity is crucial for effective and effortless conversations.”

Schmidt’s views have been endorsed by a wide-ranging EPOS study and scientific whitepaper entitled: ‘The Effects of Industry Leading Voice Pick-up on Conversation Quality and Efficiency. It revealed with microphone noise reduction turned ‘on’, conversation dynamics such as turn-taking and pauses were part of a much more natural collaborative experience.

Photo by Aditya Chinchure on Unsplash

Measurable benefits

To put some flesh on the bone, measured benefits, for participants in the study, of microphone noise reduction were:

• 21% reduction in listening effort: participants reported a significant reduction in listening effort when the noise-reducing voice pick-up was activated.

• 18% reduction in concentration difficulty: participants reported a reduction in the difficulty they experienced while trying to focus on the conversation, helping them to engage more easily in the discussion.

• 9% increase in conversation efficiency: participants can better understand and predict the end of their partner’s turn speaking while simultaneously planning their own response.

EPOS’s acclaimed BrainAdapt advantage describes a group of pioneering technologies that work together to significantly improve cognitive performance. “Did you know that while we hear with our ears, we listen with our brain? At EPOS we put this principle at the heart of our product design process – an approach we call EPOS BrainAdapt. This group of technologies work together to improve cognitive performance, minimising the amount of energy it takes your brain to process sound – leading to less brain fatigue due to less concentration and effort.”

Schmidt concluded: “It’s clear in today’s world what matters most is effective communication and being heard crisply and clearly with minimum effort. How important is your message? Users need to hear and respond in a natural way through microphones and speakers. Equally important is comfort so users can wear devices, even all day, if necessary, without even realising. Often headsets are used on video calls with a camera. They need to be discreet, seamless and fashionable in design. But overall consistent audio will firmly remain one of the most important parts of modern business communication.”

Christoph Sesseck, Sales Manager EMEA at EPOS adds: “Audio can certainly be influential in behaviour and decision making, this has been proven in several studies and is utilized in numerous vertical markets from retail to hospitality. Studies show that mood and behaviour conveyed by music are determined by musical features such as pitch, timbre, and tempo. The quality of bass delivery, for example, can drive a positive mood. Many studies have been made on this subject, and all ascertain that sound changes behaviour, be it time perception, decision making or consideration time. However, if the quality of the sound delivery is sub-standard due to poor configuration or faulty components, then the listener just thinks ‘what is that awful sound quality’ and the magic of the aural experience is lost.”

Even if the audio is only speech, a clear, intelligible and warm tone is going to harmonise with a meeting, whereas tinny, muddy or broken audio due to a poorly equalized system or the result of equipment in place which is not fit for purpose for the given space is going to bring frustration and distraction. Sesseck advises: “I would always advise anyone to listen to a system in a realistic scenario (populated space) as part of the FAT (factory acceptance test) process before any money changes hands and ensure the product vendor has a proven track record of reliability and a strong support network.”

Ministry of Sound chooses KV2 Audio

For over two decades, KV2 Audio has made a name for itself as a go-to solution for nightclub sound systems across the world. Now, the loudspeaker manufacturer is taking on one of the UK’s most iconic music venues – Ministry of Sound – delivering a comprehensive system to power the newly refurbished main room. Back in 2022, Technical and Production Manager at Ministry of Sound, Oscar Zammit, entered into discussions with integration specialist, Louis Jemmott, about the possibility of upgrading the venue’s sound system. “Oscar and I spoke about what a potential upgrade could look like, and in 2024, these conversations turned into reality,” says Louis Jemmott, now Sales Director for Patchwork London – a global distributor for touring and live events. “Ministry of Sound were keen to do a complete refurbishment of their main room, The Box. This included the need for a dynamic sound system that would meet the expectations and demands of the club.”

As well as club nights, roughly half of the venue’s operations revolve around corporate events, meaning the system needed to accommodate punchy, bass-heavy music while also providing even coverage, intelligibility, and control. “Myself and Patchwork’s Technical Manager, Kieran Edmonds, evaluated six different loudspeaker brands,” Jemmott reveals. Due to the shape and size of The Box, it was evident early on that a point-source system would be the ideal solution, leading them to KV2 Audio’s cutting-edge point-source loudspeakers. “In 2024, Oscar Zammit and his team attended PLASA London, where they were immediately impressed by KV2’s audio demo. After this, KV2 emerged as the clear favourite, so we visited the factory in Czechia with Oscar and Ministry of Sound’s chairman, Lohan Presencer, for a live demonstration with KV2’s Tom Weldon and Jonathan Reece. We were all absolutely blown away.”

Having attended audio demonstrations from three of the shortlisted manufacturers, KV2 soon emerged as the clear frontrunner. “The only real competition was with the manufacturer of the existing system, who was looking to maintain the long-standing partnership it had with the venue,” notes Jemmott. This led to an on-site head-to-head between the two brands, with each system being installed and left for a week in The Box to assess their performance in the correct acoustic environment. “KV2 was the clear winner, chosen for its sheer quality and performance that was praised by resident DJs and technical staff.”

As the home of UK dance culture since opening in 1991, expectations were understandably high for Ministry of Sound’s new upgrades. “KV2 designed the system themselves, giving us a clear framework to work with,” Jemmott explains. “The

system consists of three zones; the legendary main room –The Box; the DJ booth; and a VIP area overlooking The Box. In the main room, we installed a six-point system with SL412 loudspeakers flown from the ceiling: two at the rear, two in the middle, and two at the front, with low frequency reinforcement now provided by eight new VHD4.21 and six VHD2.16 units.” A major development of the renovations sees an additional VIP deck behind the DJ, increasing capacity and engagement with performing artists.

“For DJ monitoring, two brand-new UU loudspeakers paired with ESD1.12 subwoofers in each corner, as well as four ESD12 loudspeakers along the VIP deck to maximise clarity and definition.” All amplification is taken care of courtesy of KV2’s bespoke electronics housed in three custom designed amp racks. “We had a well-designed, high-performance system to rely on, meaning the main challenge we faced was the deadline,” Jemmott explains. “The refurb of The Box started on January 7th, with reopening weekend tickets already on sale for January 30th, leaving no room for error.” Alongside the new sound system, the upgrade of The Box included a redesigned dance floor, a modular DJ booth which can be lowered into the crowd, increased capacity, and large-scale lighting and video installations. “

During final discussions before the renovations took place, the decision was made to revamp the lighting rig, which led to a last-minute partial redesign of the audio configuration,” he recalls. “We adapted the original sound system plan in tandem with the lighting design, which led to the six-point

For over two decades, KV2 Audio has made a name for itself as a go-to solution manufacturer is taking on one of the UK’s most iconic music venues – Ministry furbished main room.

solution for nightclub sound systems across the world. Now, the loudspeaker Ministry of Sound – delivering a comprehensive system to power the newly re-

system in place now and proving just as successful. Fortunately, we were not delayed by the other on-site work.” In addition to the KV2 loudspeaker installation, Patchwork London also carried out a series of infrastructure upgrades throughout the venue to ensure the entire system performs smoothly. “We replaced all the BSS Soundweb processors with QSC Q-SYS and added NETGEAR network switches and touchscreen interfaces to allow users to reroute audio sources to different rooms,” he adds. “We supplied custom input and output panels for each room, which not only allows audio from The Box to be instantly rerouted and streamed across multiple spaces at the touch of a button, but also enables audio from other rooms to be streamed back to The Box in the same way.

“This marks a significant moment in our history,” comments Oscar Zammit, Technical & Production Manager at Ministry of Sound. “As we celebrate our 35th anniversary in 2026, we have undertaken the first change to The Box sound system in fifteen years – transitioning from our long-standing supplier to KV2 Audio. It’s a bold and exciting step forward that will define the next era of sound in our iconic main room.” With The Box at the heart of Ministry of Sound, the combination of KV2’s technology and Patchwork London’s expertise sets a new benchmark for nightclub sound, delivering a system that balances raw energy with precision, consistency, and control. Designed to meet the demands of world-class DJs, live audiences, and diverse event formats, the new installation ensures that every performance is experienced ex-

actly as intended. “Working closely with KV2 on this project has been a true pleasure,” concludes Louis Jemmott. “From design through to delivery, the collaboration allowed us to create a sound system that not only respects the legacy of Ministry of Sound but also futureproofs The Box for the next generation of club culture.”

Tecnetics expands into Charlotte Metro region

Tecnetics, a national provider of enterprise audio visual integration, structured cabling, digital infrastructure, and managed IT field services, has announced its strategic expansion into the Charlotte Metro region. The move follows sustained operational success in the company’s New York Metro anchor market and reflects continued demand for scalable, multi-region technology integration support.

The expansion into Charlotte represents a disciplined, client-driven growth initiative designed to support enterprise organizations operating across multiple states. “Charlotte’s economic growth, concentration of financial services institutions, and strong commercial development pipeline make it a natural extension of our core markets,” Ciaran Hamilton, Co-Founder & CEO at Tecnetics. “This expansion allows us to provide consistent execution standards and unified technology support for organizations with operations in both the Northeast and Southeast.”

Tecnetics’ New York Metro region serves as the company’s operational backbone, supporting enterprise clients across financial services, corporate headquarters, healthcare, and commercial real estate sectors. As clients expanded into the Southeast, particularly in North Carolina, the need for consistent AV standards, structured cabling infrastructure, and managed IT field services across regions became increasingly important. By establishing a presence in Charlotte, Tecnetics strengthens its ability to deliver:

Commercial AV and boardroom collaboration systems

Structured cabling and fiber infrastructure

Network backbone deployment

Digital workplace technology solutions

Ongoing managed IT field services

This expansion ensures organizations can rely on a single accountable partner for integrated technology solutions across multiple markets. Charlotte continues to experience significant corporate investment, particularly within financial services, fintech, and enterprise headquarters relocations. The region’s commercial real estate development and hybrid workplace modernisation trends have increased demand for advanced AV systems, scalable network infrastructure, and low voltage integration.

Tecnetics enters the Charlotte Metro market with a proven enterprise delivery model refined in its anchor region. Standardised engineering protocols, mature vendor partnerships, and scalable project management systems allow the company to replicate disciplined execution while supporting local business growth. The Charlotte expansion enhances Tecnetics’ geographic footprint across the Southeast, improving regional response times and strengthening support for commercial developers, general contractors, and enterprise clients operating across multiple states. “Our growth into Charlotte reflects our commitment to sustainable expansion,” added Giovanni Agramonte, Co-Founder & COO: “We are focused on long-term partnerships and delivering infrastructure solutions that support operational performance, scalability, and reliability.

APPLICATION

ViewSonic brings art to life

ViewSonic Corp. has applied its cutting-edge display technologies to the latest annual expo, Creative Expo Taiwan, transforming art into immersive visual experiences. The theme, ‘Water Scrapes’, celebrates Taiwan’s natural and cultural landscapes as shaped by rivers and aquatic ecosystems -symbols of vitality, connection, and diversity. With vivid visuals and flexible setups, ViewSonic’s Luminous Superior Series laser projectors and foldable 138-inch All-in One Direct View LED display enabled curators to bring their creative visions to life. Creative Expo Taiwan is the flagship annual showcase for cultural and creative industries in Taiwan. The latest edition explored water as a vital force in both daily life and cultural identity. Each installation presented unique visual and spatial challenges to realize curatorial vision. In the ‘Spirit of Water’ section, the exhibition captured the movement of flowing water by projecting images onto the reverse side of delicate gauze and translucent mesh. To achieve this, ViewSonic deployed its LS832WU laser projector, which offers 8,500 ANSI Lumens and a 0.2 ultra-short throw ratio. This setup created a dual-sided viewing experience within limited projection angles. Visitors standing beneath the fabric witnessed vivid underwater hues and fluid light-and-shadow effects that remained consistent from multiple angles. At the entrance to the ‘Island of Seascapes’ section, visitors were greeted by a captivating display that brought artistic dialogue with water to life. Projections gently rippled across a white wall, echoing the rhythm of waves and drawing viewers into the exhibition’s immersive theme. This dynamic visual environment was made possible by ViewSonic LS960WU laser projectors, which ensured that images retained sharp detail and vivid brightness throughout the space. In the ‘Taiwan as Endless Stream’ section, exhibits from 22 counties and cities were displayed beside a large window where daylight and ambient lighting converged. The laser projector delivered vivid 300-inch imagery with remarkable clarity, even in a natural light area. The projector’s built-in audio system enhanced the experience with an enveloping soundscape that elevated cultural displays into a multisensory experience. In addition to cultural exhibitions, organisers also hosted a series of live performances during the expo. throughout 2025 Creative Expo Taiwan. They wanted a visually striking centrepiece that could be installed quickly and adapt to different stage configurations. The solution came in the form of ViewSonic’s Foldable 138-inch All-in-One Direct View LED Display. This pre-assembled model enables easy setup and mobility, while its motorised stand allows for flexible placement across venues. With its expansive screen and true-to-life colours, the display enhanced the overall impact of performances, creating memorable experiences for audiences and performers alike. This collaboration underscores ViewSonic’s ongoing commitment to bridging art and innovation through advanced proAV technology. By offering adaptable, immersive, and sustainable solutions, the company continues to empower the creative community and inspire audiences around the world to experience and connect with art in new and meaningful ways.

Stage Audio Works Namibia completes AV upgrade

Stage Audio Works (SAW) Namibia recently completed an advanced AV overhaul across two boardrooms of a local beverages company, furthering a longstanding partnership that has spanned several years. The beverages company has been a leading manufacturer of beverages in Namibia for over 100 years. The project, led by SAW Namibia, in close coordination with architects Chamberlain & Associates, is part of the company’s ongoing investment in modernising its workspaces. The installation was focused on two boardrooms, which were upgraded with new Crestron-based AV systems, enhanced customisable lighting control, wireless presentation capabilities and professional Samsung ultra-HD displays. “This local beverages company has been a valued client for many years,” says Joppie Maritz, Managing Director at SAW Namibia. “We originally installed the first-generation AV equipment in one of the boardrooms, and when the client decided to modernise the space with new joinery, displays and lighting control, they turned to us for phase two.”

In the one boardroom, SAW Namibia expanded the existing

ViewSonic Corp. has applied its cutting-edge display technologies to the latest visual experiences.

latest annual expo, Creative Expo Taiwan, transforming art into immersive

control and customisation,” explains Maritz. “Users can tailor brightness and scenes to match their meeting requirements, and the Crestron system ensures that all devices and modes can be easily managed. The addition of wireless presentation capabilities means anyone in the room can share their screens, and multiple people can even present at the same time.” The new automation features not only streamline operations but also contribute to sustainability through reduced energy usage. The finished spaces are now smarter, more efficient and better suited for hybrid collaboration, providing a more equitable meeting experience for both in-person and remote attendees.

SAW Namibia sees the project as part of its broader commitment to empowering organisations to communicate more effectively through technology. “Assisting clients, long-standing and new, to keep their meeting spaces stable and effective remains a top priority for us,” confirms Maritz. “The combination of upgraded displays, lighting and control systems provides this client with a future-proof system, bringing their boardrooms in line with the latest collaboration technologies.”

Panasonic brings immersive projection to life in Paddington: The Musical

Crestron Flex Microsoft Teams Rooms system by adding a lighting control interface and wireless presentation via a Crestron AirMedia system. The space now features 85” displays, chosen for their brightness and suitability for professional use, and full AV control integration. Audio capture is handled by a Sennheiser TCC2 ceiling microphone, paired with Audac loudspeakers and an Aver camera for more engaging video conferencing. Meanwhile, a further boardroom received a new Crestron Flex video bar system, providing an all-in-one solution to meet the demands of this smaller meeting space. A Crestron control system and occupancy sensors automate power and lighting, ensuring that the system powers down when the room is not in use, helping reduce energy consumption and, in turn, prolong the lifespan of the technology.

“The choice of professional-grade displays allows for extended use, increased display brightness and integration with the Crestron control system, whilst the upgraded DALI lighting with Cameo keypads allows for easy environmental

One of the latest additions to London’s glamourous West End, Paddington: The Musical set out to deliver a richly immersive theatrical experience, bringing the beloved character’s world to life through detailed scenic environments and visual storytelling. However, achieving this within a historic London theatre presented significant challenges. The production required full scenic video coverage across multiple architectural surfaces, including moving and flown set pieces while ensuring that projection technology remained completely invisible to the audience. Any seen equipment, audible noise, or compromised sightlines would immediately break immersion and detract from the live performance. At the same time, the system had to withstand the stringent realities of live theatre: tight rehearsal schedules, overnight maintenance windows, and the expectation of flawless performance in each and every show. Working hand-in-hand with Dan Trenchard (video supervisor) and Ash J Woodward (video design & animation) Panasonic projectors were selected to deliver the required brightness, colour fidelity, and reliability without compromising the aesthetic integrity of the space. A combination of Panasonic RQ35 and RQ25 series projectors was integrated into the venue, supplied by Stage Sound Services. The selected solution balanced high-output performance with compact form factors and quiet operation, enabling projectors to be positioned front-of-house and above the audience without drawing attention to themselves. The projectors were complimented by a dedicated LED display, a rare hybrid approach that required precise planning and tuning.

The result was a projection system capable of delivering large-scale scenic imagery that blended seamlessly into the physical set, supporting the narrative rather than competing with it. “We strive for absolute perfection, and that’s what keeps us on our toes,” explained Dan Trenchard, Video Supervisor for Paddington: The Musical. “So, there is no concern about investing in Panasonic for a show like this – the reliability speaks for itself.”Ash J Woodward envisioned pro-

jection that would enhance the unique production style, in which video was treated from the beginning as a core storytelling tool rather than a mere decorative layer. “Video, for me, is always in service of the story,” he explained. “It needs to have narrative importance, but also the capacity to open up the world of the production when scale and spectacle are required.”

Projection was designed to integrate seamlessly with the physical scenery, enhancing everything from bookshelves and architectural details to museum-inspired environments, without ever resembling a traditional video surface. Trenchard played a key role in translating this vision into a practical, reliable system. “We want the video content to be the brightest, best-looking we’ve ever had - but it must never look like video,” he said. “And when the projection is not in use, we don’t want anybody to know there’s projection in the show; a lot of that comes from hiding the actual units themselves.” This philosophy shaped every technical decision, from projector placement to content design, ensuring that projected imagery behaved more like light and texture than a conventional screen. In fact, the lighting team was so impressed by the quality of the projectors that they built the projectors directly into the show’s lighting schemes, which is historically a rare and bold production move and shows the unique power and range of the units. While LED technology was located at the back of the set, projection was used at scale to extend and reshape the world of the production.

Large-scale projection enabled complete stage transformations, including moments where imagery wrapped around the architecture of the set and reached into the theatre auditorium itself, while also allowing for subtlety in how the set was lit and revealed. Rather than acting as a substitute for physical scenery, projection was designed to sit in conversation with it, enhancing texture, depth and atmosphere while allowing the set to remain present and tangible. “We’re not there to replace the set,” says Trenchard. “We’re there to enhance it and move it through the narrative.” Panasonic projectors were specified early in the process, driven by long-term familiarity among the production team, confidence in performance, and a proven track record in demanding theatrical environments. “We went straight to Panasonic on this one,” Trenchard notes. “Once those projectors are installed, they need to stay there — and they need to work.”

The creative teams were particularly pleased with the Panasonic’s emphasis on reducing projector noise in its latest generations, commenting that this is one of the most important

Paddington: The Musical set out to deliver a richly immersive theatrical experience, scenic environments and visual storytelling.

factors of the experience and that they are eager to see what Panasonic has in store in its next generations for even further reducing the noise factor. Installing high-brightness projection in a Victorian-era theatre introduced additional constraints around space, weight, and noise. Projectors had to be carefully positioned at front-of-house, in and around the audience, requiring careful consideration of sightlines and acoustic impact.

Custom acoustic enclosures helped minimise distraction from the units, with projector housings colour-matched to the venue to blend in with the historic architecture. In some locations, projectors were integrated among lighting fixtures to further reduce visual impact. “People want the projectors,” Trenchard says, “but they never want to hear them.” This meant strategic decisions had to be made to balance abso-

experience, bringing the beloved character’s world to life through detailed

jectors that are housed within acoustic enclosures. “By going straight into the projector, we removed so many points of failure,” Trenchard said.

The result was a system that could be trusted to perform consistently, allowing the technical team to focus on the show itself rather than troubleshooting. “For us, Panasonic simply means one less thing to worry about,” Trenchard added. The theme of trust and reliance is one that is central to James Paul, Head of Video at Stage Sound Services, who helped deploy Panasonic technology based on extensive experience with other productions. “As soon as a project like this comes up, we already know what we’re going to use,” he said.

Several musical numbers in Paddington: The Musical are built almost entirely around video, placing projection at the forefront of the audience experience. In many cases, audiences are unaware they are watching projection at all, and they often mistake projected light for conventional stage lighting. “People regularly say they loved the lighting as they are leaving,” says Trenchard. “And actually, the light they’re talking about is projection.” For the creative and technical teams, the success of the production represents both a professional milestone and a validation of years of collaborative experience. In a powerful way, the critical success and audience enjoyment shows what happens when the arts marry the human touch to some of the world’s best technology. “It’s one of the shows I’m most proud of in my career,” Trenchard said simply. “We came in and worked really hard, using everything that we’ve learned over the past ten years, to create something special for people. The fact that the audience love it, and we’ve had such wonderful reviews coming in - well, that’s icing on the cake.”

lute silence with unobstructed views, ensuring the best possible experience for the audience in premium seating areas. “I think we’re very lucky on Paddington to have several musical numbers that are completely dedicated to video, which is not always the case. There are some numbers in Paddington which are a single principal on stage and complete projection coverage over the entire set. So, it’s sort of unapologetically video, which is really nice.”

Live theatre leaves no margin for technical failure. Rehearsal schedules are tightly packed, and any major maintenance must be carried out overnight. For the Paddington production team, reliability was absolutely non-negotiable. Panasonic’s stable performance, combined with a simplified signal chain using direct fibre connections via SDM slots, reduced potential points of failure, which is a particular advantage with pro-

Paddington: The Musical is making waves among critics, audiences, and theatre professionals alike, and it goes to show how projection is becoming a central part of live storytelling magic. Of course, like so many of the best elements of live theatre, projection often becomes invisible to audiences (when it’s done right!) The unique mix of high-brightness performance, quiet operation, and proven reliability found in Panasonic projectors empowered the production team to create something genuinely special for audiences, night after night, and proves the power of reliable technology to elevate the human spirit.

TVC Technology Solutions shines at Northern Restaurant

& Bar

Specialist hospitality AV integrator TVC Technology Solutions will present a complete portfolio of revenue-focused audio-visual solutions for pubs, bars and restaurants at Northern Restaurant & Bar (NRB) 2026. With three decades of experience in AV technology and installation, the Bolton-based integrator will demonstrate how professionally designed and installed AV environments can increase footfall, extend dwell time, and maximise spend per customer. As venues prepare for a summer shaped by live sport and expanded trading opportunities, TVC will showcase products designed for real-world indoor and outdoor viewing, entertainment and digital signage scenarios. Owners and managers visiting the event can see how integrated screens, distributed audio, digital signage and interactive experiences can work together to create atmosphere, drive engagement and support profitable trading throughout the customer journey.

Central to the TVC showcase will be the UK debut of Outvue, a new generation of commercial outdoor television engineered specifically for hospitality environments. Unlike conventional outdoor installations that rely on bulky protective housings, Outvue integrates weatherproofing and impact resistance directly into the display itself. This enables dependable installations in terraces, beer gardens and street-front seating areas while preserving sightlines and venue aesthetics. The timing is particularly significant for UK hospitality, with major international football fixtures scheduled in US time zones this summer and therefore landing in UK evening hours, coinciding with peak trading. TVC will demonstrate how outdoor viewing zones, anchored by high-performance displays and zoned commercial audio, can transform alfresco spaces into high-margin match-watching destinations, while indoor displays and signage can reinforce promotions, menus and live content to sustain dwell time and boost spend per customer.

“Hospitality venues know that great sport, great atmosphere and great visibility translate directly into revenue,” said Andy Greaves, Sales Director at TVC Technology Solutions. “At NRB we’re demonstrating how venues can maximise customer attraction, dwell time, spend and repeat custom loyalty, with AV solutions that look premium, perform reliably in demanding environments and are ready for the summer season. The launch of Outvue is especially exciting because it removes many of the barriers that venues and installers have traditionally faced with outdoor screens.”

Alongside sport-led viewing, the stand will also highlight a stunning transparent LED screen for innovative display scenarios and the growing role of social and participatory entertainment in hospitality environments. This includes Singa karaoke, the licensed streaming karaoke platform that enables venues to host professionally curated karaoke experiences without the need for complex hardware or independent content management. Integrated into a broader AV environment designed and installed by TVC, such interactive entertainment becomes a repeat-visit driver, extending stay duration and strengthening customer loyalty. As a specialist AV integrator, TVC delivers complete end-to-end projects from concept design and specification through to installation, commissioning and ongoing support. Working with owners, operators, designers and fit-out partners, the company

Triumph Motorcycles has introduced a new digital signage strategy at its support corporate events and keep the space evolving as new motorcycles

has built an enviable reputation in the hospitality industry by ensuring every system is intuitive for staff, resilient in demanding hospitality conditions and aligned with each venue’s brand and layout.

Triumph Motorcycles brings 120 years of heritage to life with immersive digital signage

Triumph Motorcycles has introduced a new digital signage strategy at its Factory Visitor Experience, enabling the team to refresh exhibits quickly, support corporate events and keep the space evolving as new motorcycles are released. The Triumph Factory Visitor Experience gives guests the opportunity to explore the brand’s journey from its founding in 1902 through to modern day production. Alongside a working factory tour, the site features a historical exhibition space, café and retail store. Visitors will discover Triumph’s racing heritage and its appearances in film and television, including James Bond, Doctor Who and Mission Impossible, while learning about the engineering behind each motorcycle. The aim is to immerse guests in the story behind the bikes, using digital content to bring Triumph’s history, innovation and culture to life throughout the space.

As the Visitor Experience evolved, the existing signage platform began to limit what was possible. Updating content was time consuming and complex, making it difficult to keep dis-

plays current as campaigns and exhibits changed. Static displays reduced flexibility, while ageing systems created reliability and maintenance challenges. The venue also operated a mixed hardware estate of BrightSign players, Android devices and Windows PCs, each managed separately. Without a single platform, day-to-day management was inefficient and difficult to scale. Corporate events added further pressure, requiring a more adaptable visual environment. To address this, Triumph worked with AV specialist NoiseBoys to introduce a new digital signage platform powered by NowSignage, combining local AV expertise with flexible, scalable technology. Greg Willis, Marketing Director at Triumph Motorcycles, said: “We need to keep the experience fresh. If we’re launching a new bike or refreshing an exhibit, we need to be able to update content easily without adding extra work for the team.”

The new system provides a more flexible and reliable approach to managing digital content across the Visitor Experience. Because the NowSignage platform supports BrightSign players, Windows PCs and Android devices, Triumph could enhance its content management capabilities without replacing existing hardware, avoiding disruption and unnecessary cost. The team now remotely controls screens, projectors and blended displays from one interface. Campaign footage can be uploaded quickly, messaging adjusted as exhibits change and content tailored for corporate events.

NoiseBoys designed and installed the sound, lighting and visual systems across the site. The focus was on clean design and reliable engineering, ensuring the digital displays inte-

grated seamlessly into the building. Phill Beynon, Director at NoiseBoys, said: “The existing system was ageing and had multiple failure points. Our aim was to retain as much of the existing infrastructure as possible while delivering something more robust and flexible. The platform works across multiple hardware types, which makes deployment straightforward. It’s easy for the end user to manage and we know support is there if needed.”

Digital signage now plays a central role in supporting the physical exhibits. Visitors can view behind the scenes factory footage, explore historical milestones and engage with campaign content alongside the motorcycles. Since introducing the new system, Triumph has received positive feedback from returning visitors. Greg Willis added: “We’ve had regulars tell us that every time they come back, the experience feels new. That’s exactly what we want - for visitors to feel immersed in a different aspect of the Triumph story every time they walk through the doors.” Nick Johnson, CEO at NowSignage, said: “Experiences like Triumph’s Factory Visitor Experience need to evolve constantly. Our platform gives teams the flexibility to update content across multiple screen types quickly and keep environments like this feeling dynamic.”

Powersoft enhances guest experience in Tokyo café-bar

TONER, a distinctive café-bar and collective space located along the Meguro River in Nishi Gotanda/Fudomae, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, has upgraded its audio infrastructure with a suite of Powersoft amplifiers and control solutions, creating a sound environment that evolves seamlessly from its relaxed daytime ambience to high-energy evenings with DJ performances. The installation, delivered by integrator Audio Brains, includes Powersoft’s Quattrocanali 1204 DSP+D, Mezzo 604 AD, Mezzo 322 AD and a WM Touch wall-mounted control panel.

Named after the ink cartridges used in professional printers, TONER reflects the idea that each visitor brings their own unique colour to the venue. Built around the concept of “weave and bond”, the venue hosts a wide range of activities, from casual daytime coffee service to private events, pop-up shops and DJ-led nightlife. With such diversity in how the space is used, achieving clarity, flexibility and ease of use across all music listening levels was essential. To design a system capable of meeting these varied demands, TONER partnered with integrator Audio Brains. Working alongside respected Osaka electronic musician and producer Aoki Takamasa, the team developed an audio solution tailored specifically to the venue’s needs. “The end client wanted an audio system that could provide total tonal balance,” says Audio Brains president Junta Yamazaki. “It needed to be ready for low-volume ambient background music during the day, but it also had to be capable of driving high-energy DJ sets, so Powersoft amplifiers quickly appeared to be the best choice for this project. Plus, they complement any speaker we pair them with.”

At the core of the installation is the Powersoft Quattrocanali 1204 DSP+D, a four-channel Class-D amplifier. Featuring Powersoft’s patented Smart Rails Management (SRM) technology, the amplifier maximises efficiency by dynamically op-

Factory Visitor Experience, enabling the team to refresh exhibits quickly, are released.

timising power usage, while simultaneously reducing thermal dissipation. That kind of efficiency proves valuable in hospitality environments, where space constraints and thermal management can present challenges. Complementing the Quattrocanali are the Mezzo 604 AD and Mezzo 322 AD amplifiers, which provide additional flexibility in their compact form factors. The Mezzo 604 AD delivers four channels of amplification at 600 W total output, while the Mezzo 322 AD offers two channels of 160 W output, along with additional line-level outputs for expanded routing options. Additionally, their half-rack size design also simplifies installation, enabling Audio Brains to integrate powerful amplification within a tiny space.

The Powersoft WM Touch proved equally important to the installation’s success. The wall-mounted 4.3” touchscreen controller is powered entirely through a single Ethernet connection, which keeps installation simple. The WM Touch provides an intuitive interface for staff to manage volume levels and system behaviour throughout the day. “TONER doesn’t host DJs every day, nor do they have a full-time sound engineer,” says Yamazaki. “So having the WM Touch is a great tool for the venue. Staff can quickly and easily adjust volume levels and zoning to match the vibe of the moment. And that makes day-to-day operation of the system much easier.”

Before final handover, the team conducted a full-day, 13hour test session to ensure the setup worked as planned. “We adjusted mapping and tuning across musical styles,” says Yamazaki. “And the Powersoft amplifiers performed as expected. They made the system shine.” The careful tuning process ensured that TONER’s audio system delivers a consistent and balanced listening experience, regardless of programme material or listening level. Since the upgrade, the impact of the new system has been immediately apparent to both staff and visitors. Whether providing subtle background music or pumping, energetic DJ sets, the Powersoft-driven system maintains clarity, precision and control throughout the venue. “Even customers who know nothing about sound equipment say that the sound has a new clarity to it,” says Yamazaki. “They’re surprised that even when it’s quite loud, they can still talk to one another without having to raise their voices.”

For TONER, the installation represents more than a technical upgrade. It reinforces the venue’s identity as a carefully curated social and creative environment. “When we set out on this project, we wanted to create a space that was comfortable for every patron throughout the day and into the night,” concludes Yamazaki. “And that’s what we’ve achieved. We’re very proud of the final result.”

BackLite UK and Wildstone revamp Wandsworth Roundabout

BackLite UK has partnered with the world’s largest owner of outdoor advertising infrastructure, Wildstone, to complete a full transformation of the iconic Wandsworth Roundabout site. The multi-screen Wandsworth structure was one of 13 prime OOH locations Wildstone acquired from Transport for London early last year and its revamp of the site is part of a wider refurbishment programme planned across all of these super-premium assets.

In July last year, it entered into a partnership that gave UAEbased Multiply Media Group (MMG) the exclusive right to operate 11 of these sites via its BackLite brand. MMG announced the formation of a UK subsidiary, BackLite UK, in November after acquiring London Lites and rolling that company’s 65 premium digital signs across central London into BackLite UK, along with the media sales contracts for the Wildstone-owned properties. The companies are now working together to upgrade these sites to support BackLite UK’s ambition to become the UK’s leading platform for luxury brand advertisers, in line with the parent company’s client base in the UAE.

The UK’s luxury goods market is growing at a compound annual growth rate of more than 4%, according to Mordor Intelligence. The research firm predicts the market’s size will reach US$27.43 billion this year, rising to US$33.71 billion over the next five years. Premium brands sitting within this

BackLite UK has partnered with the world’s largest owner of outdoor advertising iconic Wandsworth Roundabout site.

advertising infrastructure, Wildstone, to complete a full transformation of the

that matches their ambitions.”

Andrew Foster, Group Partnerships Director at Wildstone, said: “This project demonstrates the collaborative nature of the relationship between MMG/BackLite UK and Wildstone, with the parties working together on the transformation of this highly recognisable site. With its position on a major arterial route in an affluent area of South-West London, the Wandsworth Roundabout site was always premium in terms of location. Following our upgrades, it’s now firmly premium in terms of infrastructure. We look forward to replicating this luxury revamp at our other sites that are operated by BackLite UK in the very near future.”

Patrick Halliwell, Managing Director at Daktronics UK, said: “We’re delighted to be the chosen display partner for the landmark Wandsworth Roundabout location. We’re grateful to both BackLite UK and Wildstone for placing their trust in Daktronics and we’re looking forward to a long and fruitful partnership.”

LEA Professional Amplifiers

at Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse

market have increasingly been investing in DOOH campaigns in recent years and the renovation of the Wandsworth site was aimed largely at appealing to these brands. Franck Muller, David Morris and Tissot are among the brands already advertising on the site.

As well as a full refresh of the supporting structure, as part of BackLite UK’s premium specification, the refurbishment included the replacement of the site’s four digital screens. The new displays were provided by Daktronics UK and involved the first UK installation of the company’s Premium Outdoor 10mm LED technology product line. The screen upgrades incorporate Daktronics UK’s System Health feature, an enhanced diagnostics and monitoring solution that provides early warnings of any potential issues, ensuring consistent and flawless delivery.

BackLite has an established track record of working with the global Daktronics group across its wider international estate and the company’s premium display technology will also be rolled out to the other Wildstone sites being refurbished as part of the BackLite UK partnership. James Bicknell, Group CEO at Multiply Media Group, said: “This upgrade reflects the strength of our partnership with Wildstone and our commitment to building the UK’s leading premium digital out-ofhome platform. Wandsworth now operates at a true global standard, giving agencies and luxury brands an environment

Nestled along the Indian Ocean on South Africa’s east coast, Durban is the country’s third-largest city and the vibrant heart of KwaZulu-Natal. It’s a place where warm weather, stunning coastline, and rich culture come together. Perched above the iconic Golden Mile beachfront, Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse has been the centrepiece of thoroughbred racing in the region for generations. Horse racing in KwaZulu-Natal stretches back more than 150 years, with the first recorded meeting held in July 1844 near the site of the current track. Today, the 2.8-kilometer (1.75-mile) course plays host to Africa’s greatest horse racing event — the Hollywoodbets Durban July.

After years of operation, some of the audio infrastructure began to fail. The venue recognized it needed a new distributed public address system capable of covering a large, multi-zone venue and providing clear, reliable audio for announcements, race-day commentary, background music, and emergency paging. The Race Coast team, which manages the venue, contacted Prosound to recommend system upgrades, who immediately included LEA Professional amplifiers as part of the redesign. “The main challenge was delivering consistent audio across a large-scale venue with varied acoustic spaces — outdoor stands, indoor restaurants, hospitality suites, and public areas,” said Dwaine Schreuder,

Head of Broadcast of Prosound. “The system needed to be network-based, reliable, and easy to control from a central location or even remotely. LEA’s growing global reputation as an innovator in networked amplifier technology and remote monitoring made them the obvious choice.”

Prosound deployed several Connect Series 354D amplifiers and Connect Series 168D amplifiers across the race track to power all the PA zones. The 4-channel CS354D provides 350 watts per channel, while the 8-channel CS168D delivers 160 watts per channel. Both IoT-enabled amplifiers are equipped with 96 kHz-capable Dante and AES67 connectivity options and support Hi-Z (70V or 100V) and Lo-Z selectable by channel. Connect Series also includes 96kHz DSP, standard across all models, offering a range of benefits that significantly enhance audio performance and system versatility.

A Connect Series Touch PoE-powered wall controller was also installed at the race track to provide a tactile controller for the system. The wall-mounted, touch-enabled control panel is designed for simple, intuitive control of LEA amplifiers, including source selection and individual-zone volume adjustments. The Connect Series delivers an industry-first professional amplifier family to feature cloud connectivity, a revolutionary advancement and a significant benefit for anyone maintaining the systems. With LEA Cloud, AV companies like Prosound can remotely control and monitor amplifiers from anywhere, at any time, and with no subscription model or hidden costs. It’s completely free to use.

The Race Coast team noted improved clarity and coverage,

as well as the ease of remote monitoring and configuration, which makes day-to-day operation smoother and more reliable. “The combination of Dante and cloud connectivity proved to be a gamechanger for us for large, complex installations,” said Schreuder. “Dante integration simplified distribution over such a large venue, while cloud monitoring and remote access gave peace of mind and reduced the need for on-site troubleshooting. We definitely plan on using LEA amplifiers in future projects.”

Brompton Technology and AOTO power

DAWA Studio’s Yongchuan Virtual Production Studio

DAWA Studio’s Yongchuan Virtual Production Studio in Chongqing, China, has opened a new chapter in Western China’s technology-driven filmmaking capabilities. For Phase II, Brompton Technology’s Tessera LED video processing was selected to power the facility’s impressive LED workflows, delivered in partnership with AOTO Electronics. Located in the urban area of Yongchuan District, adjacent to a high-speed rail station and a major transport hub, the site offers excellent connectivity, just 15 minutes by high-speed rail from Chongqing’s main city centre and 50 minutes from Chengdu. Anchored by the Yongchuan Virtual Production Studio, the project is positioned to develop a nationally leading digital film and television industry base and a Western China hub for technology-driven filmmaking. Since the start of the project, the facility has grown rapidly in both scale and capability. Phase I, completed and commissioned in May 2023, comprises a total construction area of 20,000m², including 6,000m² of soundstage space. It includes one 3,000m² virtual production studio and one 3,000m² practical set construction studio, supported by

make-up rooms, offices, meeting rooms, rehearsal spaces and other functional facilities. Phase II, completed in 2025, expanded the studio to 5 standard soundstages, including two high-tech studios, adding 32,800m² of stage space and enabling the simultaneous service of more than three mid-tolarge-scale production crews. The broader Phase II project encompasses approximately 7 acres (28,330m²), extending the campus with additional infrastructure including spaces for prop production, post-production, crew offices, personnel accommodation, warehousing and multipurpose facilities. At the heart of the virtual production environment is AOTO’s RM1.9 LED display series, supported by Brompton’s Tessera platform. A flagship configuration also includes a 60-metre-wide by 10-metre-high curved main LED wall, complemented by four movable extension screens measuring 7 metres × 4.5 metres each, supporting fast scene changes and highly flexible on-set shooting. To process and distribute content across the LED volume, Brompton has supplied 30 4K Tessera SX40 LED video processors and 60 Tessera XD 10G data distribution units. For the DAWA Studio team, Tessera’s

DAWA Studio’s Yongchuan Virtual Production Studio in Chongqing, China, has opened a new chapter in Western China’s technology-driven filmmaking capabilities

APPLICATION

value lies in ensuring the LED image captured by the camera is completely free of visual defects such as flicker, scan lines or artefacts, which, as Tiezheng Yang, Production Director at Dawa (Chongqing) Imaging Technology Co., Ltd., notes, is “a fundamental requirement for high-end virtual production”. ShutterSync® synchronises the LED refresh rate with the camera shutter to eliminate visual artefacts, while the Extended Bit Depth feature significantly enhances dynamic range in shadow areas, enabling cameras to capture far greater detail in low-light regions.

“On a stage like this, everything comes down to what the camera sees,” explains Yang. “We needed a processing platform that gives us confidence in clean on-camera capture, particularly when productions are pushing challenging shutter settings and lighting. Brompton Technology is the processor of choice for many of the world’s leading virtual production stages, both domestically and internationally. This extensive, proven global adoption provides strong confidence and assurance in our technology decisions. Software features like ShutterSync, and the ability to preserve detail in darker areas, were key reasons for choosing Tessera LED processors.” Beyond image integrity, Tessera supports advanced colour management to meet the requirements of a wide range of productions, from commercials to feature films. The platform supports professional colour spaces including ACEScg, DCI-P3 and BT.2020, and enables real-time colour adjustment via on-set grading systems such as Pomfort Livegrade, supporting a true ‘what you see is what you get’ workflow. For multi-camera setups, Frame Remapping makes it possible for cameras operating at different frame rates to capture the correct image from a single LED volume simultaneously, expanding creative flexibility and improving shooting efficiency. “Virtual production is at its best when it combines creative flexibility with operational reliability,” says Sebastian Kanabar, Head of Sales (APAC) at Brompton Technology. “DAWA Studio’s Yongchuan facility represents a significant investment in technology-driven filmmaking, and Tessera is designed for exactly this kind of environment, delivering clean on-camera performance, precise colour control and multi-camera efficiency, alongside the stability studios need day after day, while continuing to evolve through software updates to help protect long-term investment.” Centred on virtual production technology, the studio deploys integrated systems including XR, VP and motion capture, alongside a second virtual production pipeline based on real-time green screen workflows. The wider facility also includes a digital human application platform and an on-site real time rendering and intelligent computing centre with 1,000 servers. The project holds over 200 patents and intellectual property rights, and to date RMB one billion (nearly 109 million GBP) has been invested in the construction of the Yongchuan Virtual Production Studio. The studio’s virtual production system is designed to reduce the cost of filming complex scenes such as sci-fi and fantasy productions by up to 90 percent compared to traditional methods, while improving overall shooting efficiency by more than 55 percent. This supports the continued shift of virtual production from experimental use to a standardised, repeatable production tool. Since opening, the studio has hosted over 50 high-quality film and TV productions, including Project P, Resurrection, The Day I Happened to Come Back, and many more. “Once known as a ‘natural film set’ and dubbed an ‘8D cyberpunk city’, Chongqing is now attracting produc-

tions from across the country through cutting-edge virtual production technology, turning creative imagination directly into on-screen reality,” says Chenliang, COO at Dawa (Chongqing) Imaging Technology Co., Ltd. “Plans for Phase III are already under way, with commissioning expected by late 2026 or early 2027. Even more new technologies will be introduced. The future is well worth anticipating.”

“Yongchuan is a strong example of virtual production scaling at pace, and we’re excited to see how DAWA Studio supports everything from commercials through to premium film and TV work as the facility continues to evolve,” Kanabar concludes.

Innovative video designers Impact Production redefined the canvas at the arena powered by Green Hippo’s Hippotizer Media Servers. (Photo credit:

Hippotizer at Red Bull Tetris world final

Innovative video designers Impact Production redefined the canvas at the iconic Dubai Frame, transforming the landmark into a fully immersive live arena powered by Green Hippo’s Hippotizer Media Servers. Staged for approximately 500 invited guests and broadcast internationally, the one-night Red Bull Tetris World Final crowned the world champion of the legendary game in a setting that fused architecture, scenography, and sky.

The central creative challenge was translating the instantly recognisable digital language of Tetris into a dynamic physical environment using LED surfaces, architectural lighting, and custom scenic elements. At the core of the visual system was a Hippotizer Karst+ Media Server, responsible for all video playback, live camera integration, LED surface mapping, and real-time visual processing. Working in conjunction with an Avolites D9 control console and an NDI-based workflow for live feed integration, the Hippotizer Karst+ enabled Impact’s

team to unify pre-rendered content and live broadcast inputs within a single, cohesive visual architecture. “We utilised layer blending nodes and real-time effects extensively to manipulate visual layers dynamically during key show moments,” says Eriny Aziz, Media Server Programmer at Impact Production. “The production demanded rapid transitions between competition graphics, live gameplay feeds, stage content, and broadcast outputs, while maintaining absolute stability in an outdoor environment with limited rehearsal time. The flexibility of Hippotizer allowed us to integrate pre-rendered media and live broadcast feeds seamlessly. Its real-time processing power and reliability were critical in managing live inputs, timecoded sequences, and adaptive visual layers under tight technical constraints.”

Impact Production, contracted directly by Red Bull UAE, led the full creative and technical direction for lighting design, LED screen integration, media playback systems, and architectural illumination. The team delivered lighting design and installation, LED system design and integration, façade and entrance lighting for the Dubai Frame, full broadcast lighting, performer lighting for a live orchestra and DJ El Wailly, timecoded lighting sequences throughout the competition, and control of custom Tetromino lighting panels embedded within the stage. “The Tetromino lighting panels were integrated into the stage design and programmed into timecoded sequences, interacting directly with gameplay and performance cues,” adds Aziz. “As the competition progressed, the lighting narrative evolved in sync, dissolving the boundary between digital interface and physical scenography.”

Previsualisation and lighting simulations were developed using SketchUp and L8, allowing the team to refine both creative intent and technical execution prior to load-in at the architecturally complex venue. “Delivering a broadcast-grade outdoor production inside the Dubai Frame presented significant challenges,” Aziz explains. “The stage required lighting fixtures to be installed on a layered structure reaching approximately nine meters high, adding complexity to rigging, focus, and maintenance. Additionally, the Frame’s architecture restricted conventional lighting positions, demanding precise planning and inventive fixture placement.”

Despite these constraints, the team achieved consistent broadcast-quality lighting and video performance while preserving the architectural integrity of the landmark. “Hippotizer’s robust processing engine and dependable output architecture were instrumental in maintaining system stability across live camera inputs, timecoded sequences, and mapped LED surfaces - all within an outdoor environment.”

The show’s defining moment came during the competition’s climax, when timecoded lighting and video escalated across stage and structure before transitioning seamlessly to a drone recreation of Tetris above the Dubai Frame. The visual continuity between stage content, architectural illumination, and aerial choreography delivered a cohesive, high-impact experience for both the live audience and global broadcast viewers.

iconic Dubai Frame, transforming the landmark into a fully immersive live Impact Solutions).

Palmer Digital Group

Names Chuck Lewis President

Palmer Digital Group, a full-service supplier and installer of indoor and outdoor digital kiosks, drive-thru digital menu boards and canopy systems, has promoted longtime vice president Chuck Lewis to President effective immediately. Lewis has been largely responsible for the company’s yearon-year growth since launching in late 2018, setting up the organisation’s B2B structure with an emphasis on business development and marketing for the fast-growing QSR and fast casual market. That emphasis resulted in near-immediate success thanks to a focused product portfolio, strategic partner network, and in-house manufacturing operation that accelerated delivery of durable, modernized digital menu boards and kiosks equipped with cutting-edge hardware and software.

That success has allowed Lewis to grow the company and apply a similar strategy to indoor and outdoor kiosks for the retail market which, along with transportation, healthcare and education, identify as key growth verticals in 2026 and beyond. “The QSR business remains strong with an established product range that we continue to build on with emerging technology, including voice AI for ordering processes,” said Lewis. “We will develop a strategy to add partners with large footprints in these verticals as we expand indoor and outdoor kiosk initiatives.”

Lewis has taken on many additional leadership responsibilities over the company’s first seven years, including marketing activities (strategic planning and communications), customer service, project management and new product development. The latter includes the introduction of a battery-powered mobile kiosk in 2025, and a forthcoming AI powered outdoor kiosk with an outdoor-rated speaker that will be previewed at the National Restaurant Show in May. Further differentiating Pamer Digital Group from its competitors is the company’s installation department, which also continues to grow in 2026. Lewis recently added two more project managers to this department, which can handle local, regional and national deployments.

“Many of our competitors that manufacture similar products do not install their products and this gives PDG an edge,” said Lewis. “Many end users want a single company to handle not only the digital products but also the permit acquisition as well as the concrete and electrical work. PDG does all of this. As a result, we can drop both costs and lead time for our customers.”

Powersoft, has announced that Jinfu Chen has been promoted to the newly created role of area sales manager, Southeast Asia (SEA), reporting to area sales manager, Asia Pacific, Arthur Soh. Based in Singapore and travelling frequently in the region, Chen will be responsible for managing Powersoft’s sales and distribution channels across SEA. He will focus on supporting distribution partners to achieve both revenue and KPIs and driving brand awareness and long-term growth across key verticals including hospitality, corporate, education and entertainment. The appointment comes as the SEA region continues to experience robust economic growth, driven by resilient domestic demand, recovering tourism and strong foreign direct investment. With growth projections for the region outpacing several other major markets, Powersoft has identified SEA as a strategic priority for the business and is dedicating additional resources to support its expansion.

Chen joined Powersoft in July 2024 as business development manager, SEA – developing the company’s network of distributors, dealers and system integrators alongside the brand across the region. Making full use of his extensive experience in professional audio sector sales, along with his deep understanding of the cultural diversity and varied business practices in SEA, Chen will support closer collaboration with distribution partners and help to align Powersoft’s portfolio offering with local market needs. “Southeast Asia is a diverse and complex region, but it also presents tremendous opportunities. My focus is to work closely with our distribution partners to drive both sales and brand growth, and to develop Powersoft’s presence so that it stays front of mind in the region” says Chen, commenting on his appointment. “With the

Powersoft’s Jinfu Chen for new Southeast Asia role

PPDS appoints Jonas Fjeld to ‘thriving’ Norwegian market

PPDS has announced the appointment of sought-after AV professional, Jonas Field, to lead its next wave of growth in the Norwegian market. Accepting the role of Country Sales Manager for Philips Professional Displays, Jonas brings more than 10 years of hands on, top tier AV/IT knowledge and experience, and is a highly regarded and commercially driven industry professional. Throughout his career, he has built strong relationships across the channel, including distributors, integrators, consultants, and end customers.

Based in Oslo, and reporting to Roeland Scholten, PPDS Sales Director for Benelux and Nordics, Jonas will take ownership of the commercial strategy for Philips Professional Displays in Norway. His focus will include expanding distributor partnerships, increasing brand visibility within the channel, supporting partners with targeted go to market initiatives, and driving market share growth across key verticals. Jonas joins PPDS as the AV market in Norway continues to flourish, with rising demand for high quality AV solutions in markets such as corporate, education, and entertainment due to a growing need for video conferencing, digital signage, and live event production, including LED.

PPDS has maintained an upward trajectory in the country – and the Nordics region – in recent years, with sales of Philips digital signage, ePaper, interactive displays, and dvLED surpassing expectations, while Philips hotel TVs continue to be firmly established as a brand of choice for the hospitality industry. Sister brand, AOC, was also recently named as

industry increasingly focused on efficiency, performance and sustainability, I believe Powersoft is extremely well positioned to support partners and customers during this exciting period of growth.”

Che observes that as more consultants, system integrators and venue owners turn towards prioritising performance, features and reduced carbon footprint over price-driven decisions, Powersoft’s technology-driven approach and Human Audio Experience philosophy are strongly resonating with the SEA market. “As we see more countries moving towards green policies, consultants and venue owners will be required to implement solutions that help them to reach their efficiency and sustainability targets. With our DSP capabilities, auto-setup function and flexibility for control by 3rd party systems, we are in a good position to grow with consultants, system integrators and end-users who are prioritising function, features and performance,” states Chen. Welcoming Chen to his new role, Arthur Soh adds: “There is so much potential for growth in the SEA region, and with his strong network, industry experience and understanding of local markets, Jinfu is well positioned to help us realise our ambitions. I’m delighted to see him step into this role where he will support our valued partners to grow their businesses alongside the Powersoft brand in some of Asia Pacific’s most dynamic markets.” With the creation of this new role, Powersoft demonstrates its commitment to SEA. Through Powersoft’s investment in strong partnerships and innovative, reliable products, customers in the region can expect a high-quality journey from system design to after-sales support.

PPDS has announced the appointment of sought-after AV professional, Jonas Field, to lead its next wave of growth in the Norwegian market.

Norway’s market leader for home and office monitors. Jonas will work closely with the full AV channel, including distributors, system integrators, AV/IT teams, designers/architects, among others, to identify new market and project opportunities, ensuring PPDS remains a key choice for tenders, big and small, across all market verticals, including retail, corporate, hospitality, transportation, control rooms, public venues, and broadcast.

Dscussing his appointment, Jonas commented: “PPDS has become a major force in Norway, and I am excited to seize this opportunity to join such a flexible and forward thinking company with a great team. I believe that, with my skillset and understanding of the market, backed by the incredible portfolio of Philips Professional Displays and associated software and solutions, together we can achieve great things.” Roeland Scholten added: “In a competitive market, we need strong leaders and personalities to move forward and get where we want to be. Jonas has an impeccable background, working at some of the industry’s most established manufacturers and distributors, and has demonstrated from day one that he is the right fit for PPDS, sharing our values and ambitions. I am delighted to welcome Jonas to the team.”

Steffen Hoppe appointed CFO of the LIFTKET Group

Since March 1, 2026, Steffen Hoppe has been responsible for the Group’s finance division as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Steffen Hoppe has many years of experience in finance and management consulting. After completing his vocational training as a bank clerk, he studied business administration with a focus on finance and accounting at HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management. During his professional career, he worked worldwide as a management consultant for his clients and gained valuable experience for our company as Managing Director of a plant engineering company and as Group CFO of an engineering service provider in the life sciences sector.

With his expertise, he will further strengthen the strategic and financial direction of the LIFTKET Group and actively support its national and international growth strategy. “I am delighted to take on this exciting role as CFO of the LIFTKET Group at such a strong company in our region. I am fully committed to continuing LIFTKET’s positive development and ensuring that the further national and international growth of the entire LIFTKET Group is supported by a strong financial foundation,” says Steffen Hoppe.

CO Benjamin Göldner welcomes the new addition to the management team: “With Steffen Hoppe, we are gaining an experienced finance executive with many years of international expertise and strong entrepreneurial foresight. His global perspective and strategic competence will help us to further strengthen our international structures, drive sustainable growth across markets, and consistently advance the LIFTKET Group’s global expansion strategy.”

Mike Beatty appointed ambassador for Together for Cinema and GivingBack.tech

Mike Beatty has been appointed as Ambassador for Together for Cinema (TFC), formalising his long-standing support for TFC and its founder, Ian Morrish. He will also help promote GivingBack.tech, a new initiative from TFC that will help repurpose excess AV equipment to good causes in the UK. Well-known across the AV industry, Mike has been a consistent advocate of TFC’s mission to deliver professionally designed cinema rooms to children’s hospices and care environments across the UK. Commenting on his appointment, Beatty says, “I am honoured to be working more closely with Ian and the team at Together for Cinema. The work they have achieved within our industry is exceptional and genuinely life enhancing. I will gladly give my time to help ensure the incredible foundations already built continue to grow. I look forward to using my experience and industry relationships to help create new opportunities and further strengthen support from across the AV community.”

TFC continues to unite manufacturers, integrators and industry partners to deliver meaningful spaces that bring comfort, connection and shared experiences to families and care teams, while GivingBack.tech aims to deliver AV equipment to charities and Community Interest Companies to enhance their day-to-day operations, but do not have the funds to purchase it. Mike’s appointment reinforces the ongoing commitment of the AV industry to support the organisations’ expanding impact. “Mike has always been incredibly supportive of

our work and is the perfect Ambassador to help further our engagement with the Residential AV sector,” Morrish concludes. “Having known him for about 30 years, I couldn’t have chosen a better person to help promote and publicise

MSG Entertainment and Sphere Entertainment name Allen Lo Executive VP

Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (NYSE: MSGE) (“MSG Entertainment”) and Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE: SPHR) have announced that Allen Lo, a leader with more than 30 years of broad legal experience in the technology and media industries, has been named Executive Vice President, Chief Legal Officer for both companies, effective March 30. In this role, Mr. Lo will serve as both companies’ chief legal officer, overseeing all corporate and business legal affairs and leading a high-performing team of legal professionals across a range of disciplines.

He will also partner closely with the companies’ respective senior leadership teams, including to help shape business strategy, negotiate and execute significant transactions, and direct corporate governance processes. Mr. Lo will report to Jim Dolan, who serves as Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of both MSG Entertainment and Sphere Entertainment. “We are pleased to welcome Allen to MSG Entertainment and Sphere Entertainment,” said Mr. Dolan. “As a leader he has handled high-profile corporate and business legal matters, and his expertise will be an important addition to our Legal team in support of both companies’ strategic initiatives and long-term growth.”

“Throughout my career I have operated across a range of legal functions at innovative companies,” said Mr. Lo. “Taking on this role with two leading companies, each pushing forward in live experiences and technology, is an opportunity I

our work in our industry. We have an exciting future ahead of us and having an Ambassador such as Mike can only help us on our journey.”

welcome, and I look forward to working with the management teams to help support strategic initiatives at both companies.” Mr. Lo’s experience extends across a broad range of matters, including consumer-facing experiences, content moderation, and complex transactions. He joins MSG Entertainment and Sphere Entertainment from Meta, where he served as Vice President, Legal and Deputy General Counsel. In this role he was responsible for providing legal and regulatory counsel as well as managing global intellectual property matters across various areas of the business, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Meta Superintelligence Lab, Marketing, Music and Reality Labs.

Prior to joining Meta in 2017, Mr. Lo served as Deputy General Counsel, Patents and IP Litigation, at Google, where he led a team responsible for intellectual property-related matters involving Android and Google’s mobile strategy. Prior to Google, he was Deputy General Counsel and Vice President, Legal Affairs, at Juniper Networks. As the company’s second attorney hired, Mr. Lo had responsibility for a broad range of legal matters as the company scaled over his 11-year tenure, including complex transactions, strategic partnerships, global litigation, legal operations, and governance. Mr. Lo began his career at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, before joining Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner, an intellectual property law firm where he represented technology clients on patent matters.

Mike Beatty has been appointed as Ambassador for Together for Cinema (TFC), formalising his long-standing support for TFC and its founder, Ian Morrish.

Mr. Lo serves on the Board of Visitors of the Georgetown University Law Centre, which advises the Dean on strengthening the school’s teaching, scholarship, and service. He has been recognized by various industry organizations for his leadership and career achievements, including being named one of

Generational change in digital cinema toolmaking

Richard Kummeth, who has been developing and distributing software solutions for the cinema industry for around 25 years, has retired from operational business. With immediate effect, Thea Kummeth will take over the management of easyDCP GmbH and Richtwerk GmbH, better known as www. dcptools.com. The 33-year-old manager (M.Sc. Management and Technology) was most recently marketing manager at BSH Hausgeräte GmbH Munich (Bosch). Having previously worked in her father’s companies in sales and first-level support, among other areas, she is very familiar with the technology and processes of digital cinema. As managing director of easyDCP GmbH, she is responsible for the worldwide distribution of the Fraunhofer IIS software of the same name. With Richtwerk GmbH, she also heads the parent company, which develops and distributes software and cloud services for the cinema industry. The most important DCP tools are DCPshare, KDM Studio, and KDM Inspector.

the Top 50 Intellectual Property Trailblazers and Pioneers by the National Law Journal and Top 50 Diverse Leaders by the California Diversity Council. Mr. Lo received his J.D. from Georgetown University Law Centre and his Bachelor of Science degree from The Ohio State University.

Over the past 13 years, the easyDCP software suite has developed into a leading global software solution for post-production and distribution workflows in digital cinema. It is used to create digital film reels and protect them against copying. Experts from the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS in Erlangen played a key role in standardizing digital cinema for the DCI (Digital Cinema Initiatives) and collaborated on the SMPTE standards for digital cinema packages (DCPs) and the Interoperable Master Format (IMF). The well-known easyDCP software suite was also created as part of this work. Richard Kummeth and his team took on the task of distributing the software worldwide on an exclusive and extremely successful basis.

While easyDCP ensures that Digital Cinema Packages work on cinema servers, KDM Studio is responsible for ensuring that screening rights can be used on all screens where a film is to be shown. The online service automatically creates and distributes Key Delivery Messages (KDMs) for any number of

Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. and Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE: SPHR) have announced that Allen Lo has been named Executive Vice President, Chief Legal Officer for both companies.

cinemas worldwide. It manages cinema releases, venues, and booking lists with an integrated certificate database. The free KDM Inspector tool allows KDMs, DCPs/CPLs, and server certificates to be analysed and compared with a single mouse click to avoid errors in advance.

Tools for cinema operators, distributors, and filmmakers.

“When we focused on the cinema market at the turn of the millennium with Richtwerk GmbH, founded in 1989, we became part of a disruptive development. Today, our products have become indispensable in global D-Cinema processes. I am grateful for what we have achieved and know that the company is in good hands,” says Richard Kummeth. He will remain with the company as a shareholder and senior adviser but will no longer take on any operational tasks. I am looking forward to continuing our mission: to make work easier for people who live for cinema. I can rely on a very experienced team. They will help me to realize new ideas,” says Thea Kummeth.

DCPtools product is DCPshare, an online service primarily for independent filmmakers looking for an e-delivery solution for DCPs. DCPShare is also a comprehensive publishing platform. The service not only handles the e-delivery of DCPs, press kits, and trailers, but also offers convenient services for presenting and marketing film projects. DCPshare also includes cloud-based editing in easyDCP.

Kinly’s net-zero targets earn SBTi validation

Global provider of collaboration systems integration and managed services, Kinly, has today announced that its net-zero targets have been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), becoming the first global systems integrator to have taken this step. Through its rigorous assessment pro-

cess, SBTi has officially verified that Kinly’s targets, methodologies, and calculations fully capture environmental impact. It also confirms that the business has the necessary infrastructure to support meaningful progress towards net-zero. This validation reinforces Kinly’s dedication to sustainable operations and specifically authenticates the company’s commitment to:Achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across the value chain by 2050

Reducing absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions 54.6% by 2033 from a 2023 base year, as well as scope 3 GHG emissions by 61.1% per EUR value added within the same timeframeReducing absolute scope 1, 2, and 3 GHG emissions 90.0% by 2050 from a 2023 base year.

The SBTi validation is a further demonstration of Kinly’s continued commitment to improving sustainability, leading the AV industry towards a more environmentally friendly future. Moving forward, Kinly will continue to find new ways to reduce its carbon impact, work with customers to meet their sustainability goals, and educate the industry by being transparent and open with our findings. As an industry, we need to encourage collaboration and work together to create a more sustainable sector. We hope that this announcement can inspire the industry and establish a new baseline for true environmental progress.

Ken Scaturro, CEO, Kinly, said: “Achieving SBTi validation is a significant milestone for the future of our organisation and a demonstration that we are committed to supporting a more sustainable future. It reinforces that our net-zero ambitions are grounded in real science, real accountability, and real impact. We will now apply the same rigorous methodology across Yorktel’s US operations and pursue further validation as a unified business. Combining Kinly’s EcoVadis Gold ratings across Benelux, Norway, and the UK with Yorktel’s EcoVadis Committed certification, we’re building on a strong and credible foundation. Together as Kinly, we are committed to setting a higher standard for sustainability in our industry and proving that meaningful environmental progress is both achievable and essential.”

The innovation and networking event for AV professionals returns to central London in May

Returning for a 6th Year the Peerless-AV Showcase is the must attend event in the UK Pro AV calendar

AV technology pioneer Peerless-AV, this year celebrating its 85th anniversary, announced the return of the AV Showcase, the premier UK industry tradeshow, taking place on 12th & 13th May at Lord’s Cricket ground in Central London. Now in its sixth year, the event will once again bring together leading AV manufacturers, innovators, and decision-makers for a dynamic program of exhibits, insights, and networking.

“Since we organised our inaugural event in 2021, the AV market have responded positively, so now reaching our sixth consecutive year feels like a significant milestone”, said Keith Dutch, Managing Director EMEA, Peerless-AV. “The continued growth and development of our event reflects the unbelievable ongoing support we receive within the AV community – from the market leading manufacturers who exhibit, the industry voices that deliver seminars and panels to the diverse range of attendees from across the Professional AV spectrum and End User vertical markets.”

Each year Peerless-AV strive to evolve the showcase, retaining and refining popular components, such as the keynote speakers & education sessions from previous years, whilst adding new elements. The 2026 AV Show-

case will continue to exceed expectations with fresh brands added to the show floor, bringing exciting developments and unique solutions in the areas of audio, LCD/LED displays, workplace technology, signal processing, digital signage, AVoIP, video signal management and much more.

A dynamic thought leadership programme will continue to be a fundamental constituent in the exhibition, providing attendees the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the key challenges and potential opportunities ahead in the AV industry. The platform allows leading industry specialists to share their valuable insights in the topical subject areas with speakers and panellists to be announced in the coming weeks. This year coincides with LDSW ’26 (London Digital Signage Week) to further broaden the reach of the Showcase to an expanded audience and additional markets.

To drive End User engagement Peerless-AV are offering a unique VIP experience to go behind the scenes at ‘The Home of Cricket’ with an ex-England International leading a dedicated tour of the ground. The Showcase will also play host to Rise AV in cooperation with their 2026 mentorship programme designed to support and empower women in the commercial AV, live events, and production technology sectors.

At the close of day 1, exhibitors and visitors are invited to enjoy a ‘mix & mingle’ networking drinks reception with stunning views of the ground. An essential element of the Showcase it brings together a diverse cross section of attendees, sparking new ideas, creating opportunities and building relationships that can drive meaningful collaboration and ongoing innovation.

Registration is officially open for the 2026 AV Showcase! Sign up here and find more information on the event home page and watch the 2025 video here. Follow us on X, and LinkedIn for the latest updates. For more information on the full range of Peerless-AV mounts and solutions visit www.peerless-av.com.

Registration: TheAV Showcase 2026 Tickets,

Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at 09:30 Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at 16:00 | Eventbrite

Event page: https://eu.peerless-av.com/pages/The-AV-Showcase-2026

2025 video: https://vimeo.com/1084961719

ISE 2026 facts and figures available

Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) has announced the official ISE 2026 Facts & Figures report, providing verified data and insight into this year’s scale, reach and industry impact. Following a landmark edition under the theme ‘Push Beyond,’ the report offers a detailed breakdown of attendance patterns, visitor profiles, purchasing influence, technology interests and cross-sector participation. It mirrors previous year’s facts & figures reports, ensuring year-on-year comparability across key metrics, audience segments and regional representation. The 2026 edition also includes expanded insights into content engagement, reflecting the continued growth of Summits, Megatrend sessions and free-to-attend programming across the show floor – all core elements of ISE’s evolving professional development offering. The ocument provides journalists and industry stakeholders with a clear snapshot of the continued growth of ISE and the global AV community, highlighting the strong momentum behind the 2026 edition and the expanding influence of the event across multiple technology sectors. To support wider reporting and editorial planning, media are encouraged to explore ISE Play, the digital hub for select session recordings, keynotes excerpts, interviews and show highlights from ISE 2026: https://play.iseurope.org/. This resource provides additional depth and context for coverage, complementing the quantitative insights included in the Facts & Figures report. Content will continue to be uploaded over the coming weeks for the latest insights.

The full ISE 2026 Facts & Figures Report is now available for download at https://www.iseurope.org/ise2026_facts_ and_figures.

InfoComm 2026 names Shure as exclusive headline partner

InfoComm 2026 has announced Shure Incorporated as the exclusive headline partner for the upcoming show, taking place June 13–19 at the Las Vegas Convention Centre in Las Vegas, Nevada (exhibits June 17–19). As headline partner, Shure will play an expanded role in shaping the onsite experience - bringing more than 100 years of innovation and industry-leading expertise in audio and collaboration technology to life through high-impact show floor activations, thought leadership programming, and real-world demonstrations that showcase how next-generation technologies are transforming the future of work and play across industries.

“InfoComm is the world’s most vital pro AV show because the technologies on display are essential to how people communicate, collaborate, and experience the world,” said Jenn Heinold, Senior Vice President, Expositions, Americas, AVIXA, producer of InfoComm. “Shure’s partnership helps us elevate that experience for attendees – especially at the intersection of pro AV, broadcast workflows, and modern collaboration”.

“InfoComm 2026 marks a defining moment for our industry. AI capabilities and IT standards have changed how people use technology where they work, live, and play - and now is the time to reimagine what’s possible,” said Sean Bowman, Associate VP, Sales North America at Shure. “As headline partner, Shure is committed alongside InfoComm, AVIXA and the customers who rely on AV every day, to combining innovative breakthroughs with user workflow expertise to help shape a smarter, scalable, more connected future for the industry”. As headline Partner, Shure will play a key role in powering select InfoComm 2026 show floor experiences de-

signed to showcase integrated AV and Collaboration solutions in action across high-impact environments:

The Pitch Activation Hub (North Hall): A soccer-inspired activation highlighting the intersection of live event production, broadcast workflows, and immersive fan experiences. Shure will help power real-world demonstrations of audio and communication solutions used in sports and entertainment environments.

The Smart Workplace Activation Hub (Central Hall): An immersive Class A workspace environment showcasing the technologies redefining hybrid work, meeting equity and human-centered office design for today’s connected enterprise. Shure will support the Hub’s audio foundation, showcasing how enterprise-grade sound enables everything from daily collaboration to executive town halls and internal broadcasts.

In addition, Shure will deliver thought leadership and practical insights directly on the show floor through dedicated stage programming, including:

A 90-minute Vision Stage takeover, featuring a curated block of Shure-led thought leadership and technical sessions, and

A 20-minute Spotlight Stage session offering practical insight into how collaboration and professional audio technology solutions are being deployed across today’s integrated AV environments.

InfoComm 2026 brings together the technologies and people reshaping how we work, play, learn, communicate, and experience the world. The show will feature a refreshed

Work/Play show floor experience, giving attendees a clear lens into how AV solutions support both functional and creative environments – from smart workplaces and classrooms to live events, broadcast, and immersive entertainment.

Education runs June 13–19 in the West Hall Meeting Rooms, with exhibits June 17–19 in the North and Central Halls. The program spans the future of integrated AV across audio, conferencing and collaboration, broadcast workflows, enterprise IT, learning spaces, events and entertainment, and more – including expanding focus on how AI is being applied across AV systems, collaboration, and production.

Additional InfoComm 2026 details – including registration opening and keynote announcements – will be released in the coming weeks.

The Digital Signage Summit 2026 sets the global agenda

Marking its 20th anniversary, The Digital Signage Summit (The DSS) 2026, organised by invidis in a joint venture with Integrated Systems Events (ISE), will bring together the sector’s most senior leaders for a strategic examination of the forces reshaping digital signage and DOOH. Over two decades, the Summit has evolved into the industry’s principal platform for executive-level exchange, providing a neutral environment for high-level insight, peer dialogue, and long-term vision setting. As the pre-eminent forum for the market’s most influential decision-makers, The DSS presents strategic perspectives from the world’s leading innovators and solution providers. By fostering cohesion across Retail Digital Signage, DOOH, and Retail Media, the Summit establishes shared priorities, guides capital allocation, and defines the sector’s next phase of sustainable growth.

Under the theme NextGen Signage, The DSS 2026 will bring together leaders to reimagine, rethink, reinvent, recalibrate, and reset digital signage in a time of transformation. This milestone edition will examine the strategic and technological forces reshaping the global market, from economic shifts and consolidation to new competitive pressures and the accelerating impact of AI, while redefining content workflows, operations, and the broader value chain. Attendees will hear the Anniversary Keynote, “20 Years on Screen: The Stories, the Shifts, the Future”, reflecting on the industry’s evolution and looking ahead to the next chapter, with evening networking and 20th-birthday celebrations at Airbräu. “Twenty years of DSS is the perfect moment to look back at the first two decades of digital signage and to do it in an entertaining way,”

says Florian Rotberg, Founder & Owner of invidis consulting GmbH. “Our industry has grown from a niche built on CRT tubes to a business-critical ecosystem powered by LEDs, commoditized screens, and increasingly sophisticated software and service platforms. The old silos are gone, and the future is wide open - intelligent, connected, and AI driven. We’re excited to celebrate some of the best moments from 20 years of digital signage and to share our perspective on where the next five years will take us.”

Reflecting on the sector’s current trajectory, Stefan Schieker, Senior Partner of invidis consulting GmbH, adds: “Digital signage has matured. With easier tech and AI accelerating everything from content to analytics, we can finally focus on real value and future-ready business models. Despite global challenges, this moment is a turning point full of disruption, but even more full of opportunity.” Mike Blackman, Managing Director of Integrated Systems Events, emphasises the Summit’s ongoing significance: “As we mark twenty years of Digital Signage Summit, the event remains the definitive forum for industry leaders to assess shifting priorities and emerging challenges in digital signage. This is where the industry’s most forward-thinking leaders converge, and where the next big ideas take shape.”

Don’t miss this opportunity to stay at the forefront of the digital signage revolution. Early bird tickets are available for a limited time. Accommodation options for one or two nights at the Hilton Munich Airport are also available. To secure your space and for more information, visit: https://digitalsignagesummit.org/

Microsoft’s Ilya Bukshteyn to Keynote InfoComm 2026

At InfoComm 2026, the world’s most essential destination for AV, IT, broadcast, and AI-driven systems, Ilya Bukshteyn, Corporate Vice President, Microsoft Teams Calling, Devices, and Premium Experiences, will deliver a keynote address Wednesday, June 17 at the Las Vegas Convention Centre in Las Vegas, Nevada. InfoComm 2026 takes place June 13–19, with exhibits June 17–19. At Microsoft, Bukshteyn oversees a portfolio that includes Teams Phone, Teams Rooms, Teams Events, and Teams Premium – solutions shaping how organisations communicate, collaborate, and connect across physical and digital spaces. At InfoComm 2026, he will present a vision for the future of AI-powered communication and collaboration and how intelligent systems are influencing the workplace experience. “InfoComm is where the industry comes together to see what’s next, and how integrated systems perform in real environments,” said Jenn Heinold, Senior Vice President, Expositions, Americas, AVIXA, producer of InfoComm. “As AI continues to reshape how we work and connect, we’re excited to welcome Ilya to InfoComm 2026 to share insights from the forefront of collaboration innovation.”

“AI is creating a new era of intelligent workplaces for organisations of all kinds. The next evolution of AI is here: agentic co-workers designed to help people multiply their impact. At InfoComm, I’m excited to share how AI-powered experiences in Microsoft Teams add new value to physical workspaces and elevate the way people connect and communicate every day”, said Bukshteyn. InfoComm 2026 brings together the technologies and people reshaping how we work, play, learn, communicate, and experience the world. The show will feature a refreshed Work/Play show floor experience, with immersive activation hubs, expanded learning opportunities, and the latest innovations across conferencing and collaboration, enterprise IT, broadcast workflows, and live events –along with a growing focus on how AI is being applied across AV systems, collaboration, and production.

Ilya Bukshteyn oversees a portfolio that includes Teams Phone, Teams Rooms, Teams Events, and Teams Premium – solutions shaping how organisations communicate, collaborate, and connect across physical and digital spaces.

InfoComm 2026 will spotlight the future of conferencing and collaboration

InfoComm 2026 will showcase the technologies, strategies, and real-world deployments shaping the next era of conferencing and collaboration – where collaboration technologies move from concept to implementation on June 13–19 at the Las Vegas Convention Centre in Las Vegas, Nevada with exhibits June 17–19. As hybrid work evolves and AI becomes embedded in meeting platforms, enterprise organizations are rethinking everything from room design and interoperability to “Day 2” support and long-term ROI. At InfoComm 2026, attendees will hear directly from Microsoft, Google, Cisco, Logitech, Zoom, Lenovo, Visa, Capital Group, and other industry leaders driving that transformation. “Conferencing and collaboration is no longer just about connecting people, it’s about creating intelligent, inclusive, and secure environments that support how modern organizations actually work,” said Jenn Heinold, Senior Vice President, Expositions, Americas, AVIXA, producer of InfoComm. “InfoComm 2026 brings together the platforms, devices, enterprise case studies, and forward-looking discussions that define the future of integrated collaboration.”

AI-powered collaboration will be a defining theme across the week. Sessions such as “AI Enhanced Meeting Spaces: Designing for Inclusivity, Efficiency, and Smart Automation” and “The ROI of Intelligent Collaboration Spaces” will feature leaders from Logitech, Microsoft, Lenovo, Huddly, and AstraZeneca exploring how AI is transforming meeting equity, automation, and measurable business impact. Platform leaders will also spotlight the evolution of intelligent meeting experiences in sessions including “Unlock Meeting Equity with Google Meet AI and Logitech Room Solutions” and “AV as a Neural Network: The Architecture of Intelligent Space Design.”

Beyond innovation, InfoComm 2026 will focus on the operational realities of deploying and supporting collaboration environments across global enterprises. Highlights include:

“Enterprise AV Deployment at Scale: Case Study” with NETGEAR AV and CTI

“Crafting Enterprise AV Standards for the Modern Workplace” featuring Logitech, AVI-SPL, Microsoft, Visa, and Steelcase

“Day 2 Ops for Microsoft Teams Integration,” offering real-world insights into post-deployment support

Sessions such as “Designing and Deploying AV Systems Globally at Scale – The Google Experience” will provide a look inside large-scale global collaboration strategies.

As enterprise communications become more sophisticated, collaboration increasingly overlaps with broadcast-quality production. “Lessons Learned: Designing Corporate Studios” and “UC-Powered Broadcast Studios: How IT Teams Deliver Studio-Quality Production with Zoom and Microsoft” will explore how organizations are building studio-grade environments powered by unified communications platforms.In Central Hall, attendees will find a broad range of conferencing and collaboration technologies including AI-powered meeting assistants, conferencing cameras, wireless presentation systems, room booking platforms, and unified communications solutions, demonstrating how modern workplaces are becoming more intelligent, interoperable, and human-cantered.

The Smart Workplace, powered by FORTÉ, is an all-new immersive experience on the show floor that will provide a real-world view into how these technologies come together in practice, showcasing integrated environments that support AI-enabled collaboration, immersive meeting experiences, and enterprise communications workflows. Two Future Workplace show floor tours will guide attendees through collaboration technologies in real-world applications, reinforcing InfoComm’s role as the place to see how integrated solutions perform at scale. The conferencing and collaboration education track, sponsored by Shure, takes place Tues., June 16 through Thurs., June 18. For more information on the conferencing and collaboration program at InfoComm 2026, visit infocommshow.org/conferencing-collaboration.

AI innovation takes centre stage at CEDIA Expo/CIX 2026

AI is rapidly transforming the smart home and integrated technology landscape, and the conversation around AI’s impact on system design, automation, and client experiences will take centre stage at the 2026 edition of CEDIA Expo/ Commercial Integrator Expo (CIX). Returning to Denver this September, the event will bring together thousands of residential and resimercial integrators, manufacturers, and industry leaders to explore how AI is reshaping everything from automation and lighting to system design and user experiences. AI will be woven throughout the event’s education program, thought leadership discussions, and product demonstrations, allowing attendees to see firsthand how emerging technologies are redefining integration businesses. “AI is clearly one of the biggest forces shaping the future of smart homes and integrated technology, and it will be a major focus of programming at CEDIA Expo/CIX 2026,” said Jason McGraw, Group Vice President and Show Director of CEDIA Expo/CIX. Some of the most significant product pivots and breakthroughs in this industry have started on our show floor. That’s what happens when you put the right people and the right technologies in the same room and give them space to ideate, ‘what if?’?”

For example, the idea that ultimately led to URC’s new AI-driven circadian lighting capability began with a simple conversation on the show floor at CEDIA Expo/CIX 2025. URC lead software engineer Justin Spiniolas said the spark came during a discussion with an integrator about the challenges of integrating circadian lighting across different systems. That exchange planted the seed for building circadian lighting directly into URC’s control platform — allowing it to function across multiple lighting brands instead of being limited to a single ecosystem. “I had a ‘lightbulb’ moment,” recalls Spiniolas. “Inspiration was my key takeaway from the show.”

A key hub for AI discussion will be the event’s Smart Stage, where free educational sessions run throughout the three

days of the show. The program will feature thought leadership discussions examining how manufacturers and integrators are incorporating AI into their product roadmaps and service offerings. Organisers are also planning a new manufacturer leadership panel, bringing together executives from some of the industry’s leading technology brands to discuss how AI is influencing product innovation and where the next wave of intelligent automation is headed. “We want attendees to hear directly from the brands shaping the future,” McGraw explained. “What is their vision? What does the roadmap look like? And how are they implementing technologies like AI to create better outcomes for integrators and their customers?”

These discussions will provide integrators with practical insight into how AI-driven tools - ranging from predictive automation to intelligent lighting and system analytics - can open new business opportunities. Beyond the stage, AI will be visible across the expansive expo hall, where more than 400 manufacturers are expected to showcase new smart home and resimercial technologies. Integrators will be able to experience intelligent lighting systems, AI-enhanced automation platforms, advanced voice and natural-language interfaces, and smart energy management solutions that adapt dynamically to user behaviour. Exhibitors, including Aqara, Josh.ai, Deep Sentinel, DoorBird, and other intelligent automation providers, will demonstrate AI-enhanced products and platforms designed to deliver more intuitive, adaptive smart home experiences for integrators and their clients.

For many attendees, these live demonstrations are where the event’s value truly comes to life. “Nothing replaces being able to talk to the engineers, see the technology operating live, and explore how it fits into your next project,” said McGraw. “You can research products online, but seeing them demonstrated in person with the people who designed them is where the real learning happens.” The broader mission of CEDIA Expo/CIX remains helping integrators grow stronger, more profitable businesses. While AI will be visible across many new product introductions, it is also rapidly transforming the software tools that integrators rely on to manage oper-

ations, projects, and customer relationships.

Companies including D-Tools, Portal.io, Rev.io, Specifi IO, and Symbol Logic will showcase AI-enabled platforms that simplify business management, helping integrators streamline back-office processes, improve operational visibility, and run more efficient organizations. In addition to technology discovery and education, CEDIA Expo/CIX also provides an unmatched networking environment for the custom integration community. From industry meetups and training sessions to special events such as the CE Pro All-Star Band opening night celebration, the show fosters the connections that help drive new partnerships and projects. “Integrators come for three main reasons: to see new products, to learn from the education and thought leadership, and to connect with peers across the industry,” McGraw said. “When those three elements come together, it becomes an incredibly powerful experience.”

For residential and resimercial integrators navigating the rapid evolution of AI-driven technology, attending CEDIA Expo/CIX 2026 represents a unique opportunity to understand where the market is heading and how their businesses can adapt. Whether exploring AI-powered automation platforms, learning from manufacturer leaders, or experiencing new technologies firsthand on the show floor, attendees will gain insights that can help them stay competitive in an increasingly intelligent smart home ecosystem. “There is simply no other event in North America that brings together this many integrators, manufacturers, and educational opportunities in one place,” McGraw said. “If you want to understand the future of intelligent homes and integrated technology, this is where that conversation happens.” CEDIA Expo/CIX will return to Denver from Tuesday, September 1, to Friday, September 4, 2026.