AV News: ISE Special Edition

FEBRUARY 2026

In this Issue

ISE 2026: on the cusp of a paradigm shift?

ISE 2026: Highlights

ISE 2026: on

the cusp of a

paradigm shift

Bryan Denyer, editor of AV News explains.

As the world’s most important event for the audio-visual technology sector, ISE fulfils the dual role of, first, representing the state-of-the-art in the evolution of current technologies, and, second, the longer term objective of tracking profound moves in the adoption of emerging fundamental science and technology. Looking back over previous editions of the event, it is clear that the relative significance of these two trends, varies from year-to-year. It is my belief, that ISE 2026 could mark a real shift in the paradigm currently supporting AV technology.

If you are a regular visitor to ISE, think back to those editions of the show where you became aware of something radically new - way beyond version upgrades or new piece points. When was the last occasion where innovations or developments really stopped you in your tracks, or made you rethink the future path of your business?

I believe that ISE 2026 could be one of those occasions - an event that could see profound changes in AV technologies and the ways in which these innovations are integrated into businesses, educational institutions, and home environments.

The AI gamechanger

It might seem obvious but in a couple of years, AI has progressed from a science fiction concept to a commonplace tool deployed across AV applications and markets. Throughout ISE 2026 you should expect AI to feature as mature applications ready for deployment in

business, health, education and entertainment. Applications will include collaboration, content production and even maintenance of AV installations.

Alternative realities

Virtual, augmented and mixed realities shave featured on the margins of AV applications for some time, but ISE 2016 will redefine digital experiences, merging physical and digital spaces in completely new ways. Examples might include immersive virtual meetings; AR-powered interactive displays in retail and elsewhere; and content creation for education, training, and entertainment.

Room automation

The environment in which AI and xR will coincide is that of fully autonomous smart meeting rooms. The pandemic forced many novice users to adopt remote collaboration technologies without suitable training, with many struggling to optimise room set-ups and use. AI offers the potential to take much of the pain out of the process. Voice-activated room controls can optimise lighting, displays and audio. Facial recognition deals with user authentication and AI assists with acoustics and camera tracking for optimal collaboration. Machine interfaces

ISE 2026 will see a continual improvement in visual technologies and might even presage advanced voice control. At the very least. interactive display technologies will become more intuitive, with improved gesture and voice control. In terms of resolution, 8K and will be the new benchmark, with the potential for superhigh-definition LED walls with ultra-fast refresh rates in gaming and entertainment applications.

Next-gen digital signage

A new generation of digital signage will start to appear at ISE 2026, with solutions enhanced with AI announced ahead of the show. New features will include personalised content triggered by a combination of AI and sensors. Expect to see further integration of displays and mobile telephones and Augmented Reality. Sustainabil-

ity will be a recurring theme throughout ISE 2026, and particularly in signage applications in retail, public information and education. Sustainability will apply across the board, with energy-efficient LED displays and projectors. We have already seen Epson introduce its circular economy concept to the AV market, and ISE 2026 is sure to see further initiatives for recyclable and biodegradable AV hardware coupled with cloudbased AV solutions designed to reduce hardware infrastructure.

Hybrid and virtual events

It is somewhat ironic to discuss hybrid and virtual events in terms of sustainability in the introduction to large in-person trade show with an international attendance (See Mike Blackman’s interview elsewhere in this issue). While it is unlikely that ISE will evolve into a virtual event, live events, in general, are evolving, with hybrid events, in particular, growing apace. A number of technological innovations are providing a platform for hybrid and virtual events. These include advanced live-streaming solutions; holographic presenters and virtual event spaces and multi-camera switching and AI-driven production tools.

Sound innovation

In preparing this introduction, I happed across a TED talk by Jason Rugolo who is an audio innovator and

developer of cutting-edge spatial audio systems. Rugolo questions why so much interpersonal communication and command activity is conducted through visual technologies. He supports the view that 3D audio rendering can be instrumental for virtual and mixed reality experiences. While it is unlikely that audio computers, whereby computer speak our language rather than us speaking theirs, will be on show at ISE 2026, you never know!

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The Mike Blackman

Q&A

As we gear-up for ISE 2016, Mike Blackman, Managing Director, Integrated Systems Events talks to AV News editor Bryan Denyer about, among other things, the continuing success of the ISE event, the impact of growth, rising costs, sustainability and digital media on the in-person format of the event.

AVNews: ISE has retained its popularity despite the challenges posed by digital media and competing events. Is this because there’s still no real substitute for face-to-face interaction when it comes to building trust and rapport?

MB: Absolutely. Face-to-face interaction remains irreplaceable when it comes to building genuine trust and meaningful business relationships. Digital platforms are fantastic for communication and information sharing, but they simply can’t replicate the nuances of in-person engagement. The spontaneous conversations when walking the show floor, reading someone’s body language, the energy of a handshake or a shared laugh, these moments are often where real partnerships are born. ISE continues to thrive because it provides a space where people can connect on a human level and spark collaborations that go far beyond the show itself. In a world that’s increasingly dominated by screens, the personal connections formed at ISE are still incredibly valuable.

AVNews: From an attendee’s perspective, ISE offers the chance to see, touch, and experience products firsthand. However, does the scale and growing diversity of the show create challenges in maintaining that handson experience?

MB: That’s a very fair point, and it’s something we’re very mindful of. As ISE continues to grow, it’s our responsibility to make sure attendees don’t lose that immersive experience that sets the show apart. We do this

by carefully designing the show floor, curating Technology Zones for easy navigation, and creating interactive demo areas that make it easy for visitors to explore and engage with the innovations that matter most to them. We also work closely with exhibitors to encourage experiential displays, so attendees can see products in action and even try them in real-world scenarios. Growth certainly brings greater diversity, but we’re committed to ensuring it never comes at the expense of that direct, tangible engagement that makes ISE so special.

AVNews: ISE brings together decision-makers from multiple related sectors, allowing participants to network with a large number of relevant contacts in just a few days. Does the size of the event ever become a drawback in this regard?

MB: The size of ISE can feel overwhelming at first glance, but we actually see it as one of our greatest strengths as we manage it thoughtfully. With so many sectors and so many potential connections under one roof, the real challenge is helping attendees focus on what matters most to them. That’s why we invest heavily in tools and resources to make networking as effective as possible, for example the ISE website now has the ability for users to create their very own event schedule – it simply asks for your company and job title, then uses AI to pull together a list of events personalised to

you.

The event’s scale gives you access to an extraordinary breadth of contacts, but our goal is to make sure every connection counts.

AVNews: As ISE continues to expand, absorbing new product categories and niches, is there a point where growth in scope could become counterproductive?

MB: Expansion must be strategic. We’re mindful of the need to maintain coherence and relevance for our audience. We regularly consult with our advisory boards and stakeholders to assess new opportunities and ensure that any addition genuinely adds value. If we ever felt that growth was starting to dilute the show’s focus or overwhelm visitors, we wouldn’t hesitate to pause and reassess. The priority is maintaining ISE as the central hub for the AV and systems integration community, rather than trying to be everything to everyone. Growth is exciting, but relevance and clarity are always our guiding principles.

AVNews: Do you believe it’s still possible for a new brand to compete effectively against established players at ISE?

MB: It’s definitely possible - one of ISE’s real strengths is its ability to level the playing field. Innovation Park is central to that; it’s a dedicated area specifically designed to showcase emerging companies and breakthrough technologies. It gives new brands a platform to demonstrate their solutions in a highly visible part of the show, allowing them to engage directly with potential customers and partners. Beyond exhibition space, Innovation Park fosters interaction through curated presentations, pitch sessions, and networking opportunities, helping startups tell their story in a way that resonates. With the right preparation and a compelling offering, new brands can stand out and make meaningful connections, gaining traction that can shape their future in the industryAVNews: We’ve heard some concerns from exhibitors about the rising costs associated with exhibiting in Barcelona. Do the original arguments for moving from Amsterdam still hold true today?

MB: The move to Barcelona was always about the longterm potential of the show - its ability to grow, innovate, and provide an exceptional experience for both exhibitors and attendees. The city’s infrastructure and venue facilities give us the flexibility to deliver a world-class event that simply wasn’t possible in Amsterdam. We continue to listen to feedback and look for ways to create an environment where our community can truly thrive.

AVNews: What steps are being taken to ensure attendees are qualified buyers actively seeking new products and solutions — and that they represent strong ROI for exhibitors?

MB: Ensuring a high-quality audience is a top priority for us. Our registration process gathers detailed information about attendees’ roles, responsibilities, and areas of interest. We also provide tools for pre-show appointment scheduling and host exclusive networking events that connect exhibitors directly with influential buyers. The goal is to make sure exhibitors are meeting people who are actively looking for solutions, so every interaction has the potential to generate meaningful business outcomes.

We also offer a host of matchmaking formats throughout the show, including ‘Speed-Dating Night’ on Tuesday 3 February, 17:00-18:00, which offers fast-paced networking for startups, investors, and innovation managers. ‘Innovation & Startup Matchmaking’ is all day on Wednesday 5 – Thursday 6 February. Here, investors and innovation managers gain tailored insights into the most relevant innovators, startups and scaleups, based on their specific search fields and innovation needs. Be sure to register for these as spaces fill up quickly!

AVNews: To what extent does ISE support exhibitors post-show in following up leads and closing deals?

MB: ISE’s role is really about creating the environment and platform that makes follow-up and relationship-building possible. From the moment exhibitors’

step on the show floor, we provide tools and spaces that make it easy to capture and organise leads, and to engage with the right contacts. Ultimately, the real value often emerges after the show, as exhibitors follow up and develop the relationships sparked at ISE. Our focus is on giving them the structure and visibility they need to turn those initial encounters into long-term partnerships and opportunities.

AVNews: What more can ISE do to extend the value of the show — for example, through additional media or ongoing engagement to improve overall ROI for exhibitors?

MB: We already provide a range of tools and platforms designed to help exhibitors extend the impact of the show well beyond the four days on the floor. Our complementary press opportunities including the digital press kit which makes it easy for exhibitors to upload and share news directly with media, and the Exhibitor Back Office allows you to upload up to three press releases, easily accessible to all visitors and media.

ISE Show TV is another key channel that we offer, giving exhibitors the chance to showcase products and stories to a wider audience. Together, these resources create multiple touchpoints that keep exhibitors visible, help them connect with the right audiences, and support ongoing engagement.

AVNews: Many trade shows now include virtual components to expand reach beyond physical attendees. How is ISE using digital tools to enhance, rather than replace, the in-person experience?

MB: Our focus has always been on creating an exceptional in-person experience. We want attendees to be on the show floor, seeing, touching, and experiencing the technology first-hand. Digital tools are there to complement that experience, not replace it. As I mentioned, ISE Show TV captures videos on the show floor, including product demos, Q&As, and 360-degree stand flythroughs. These are promoted during and after the show via the RISE website and newsletters, extending the reach of exhibitors’ stories.

Also, for ISE 2026 as part of our evolving content programme offerings, attendees with a Megatrend session ticket will have access to the online recordings for 2 weeks post-show, to catch up and refresh their knowledge.

AVNews: What are ISE’s current educational and CPD objectives, and how have these evolved over the years?

MB: Education is at the heart of ISE, and our programme is designed to give attendees the insight and tools they need to stay ahead in a fast-moving industry. We offer a comprehensive range of sessions covering everything from AV and systems integration to digital signage, smart building technologies, and beyond. This year, we’re especially excited to introduce the CyberSecurity Summit, Thursday 5 February, 09:00-12:00, reflecting

the growing importance of secure systems in every sector. It will provide practical guidance, expert panels, and case studies to help attendees understand and navigate this critical area. Summit chair is Pere Ferrer i Sastre, a senior public executive and strategic advisor with over 15 years of experience in leadership roles across public safety, digital transformation, and critical infrastructure governance.

Another key element is our Megatrends programme. These sessions focus on the major forces shaping the future of the industry: AI, Cybersecurity, Robotics, Smart Spaces, Sustainability, and TradeScape. They’re designed to give attendees a broader perspective on where the market is heading, helping them anticipate opportunities and challenges.

What makes ISE’s education offering unique is that it’s highly integrated with the show floor. Attendees can immediately connect what they learn in sessions to the products, solutions, and innovations they see in person. The combination of deep-dive education, emerging trend analysis, and hands-on experience ensures participants leave with both knowledge and context empowering them to drive innovation within their own businesses.

AVNews: With thousands of visitors and exhibitors travelling long distances, how sustainable is an event of ISE’s scale?

MB: From the very beginning, we’ve worked closely with Fira de Barcelona to build a greener event across multiple fronts. The venue itself is powered by 100 % renewable energy, drawing on sources such as solar, wind, hydro, biomass, and more, which significantly reduces the show’s environmental footprint.

But our commitment goes beyond energy: we actively encourage exhibitors to rethink how they design and build stands, guided by the 8Rs framework—rethink, refuse, reduce, reuse, repair, refurbish, repurpose, and recycle. This approach minimises waste and fosters circular economy practices, resulting in more modular, reusable structures, fewer single-use materials, and smarter choices about what is brought into the hall. Sustainability is embedded in every aspect of planning and delivering the show. By working closely with partners and exhibitors, we strive to reduce environmental impact, promote responsible design, and support the communities that host us. As a proud supporter of the Better Stands Programme, we champion the transition from disposable, single use stands to high-quality, reusable structures. This initiative not only reduces waste but also enhances safety and efficiency during build and breakdown, contributing to a more sustainable future for the events industry.

On the show floor, initiatives like waste patrols, reusable badge holders, and donation programmes for leftover furniture and equipment help cut down waste and benefit the local community after the event. We also

work with partners who share our sustainability commitments, and we actively promote greener travel options, such as trains for those coming from within Europe. Importantly, sustainability is also part of the content we offer. We integrate topics like environmental responsibility into our education and Megatrends sessions, helping the industry think about sustainability not just operationally, but strategically.

AVNews: Looking ahead, where do you see new visitors to the Barcelona-based event coming from — both in terms of sectors and geographic regions?

MB: ISE has always attracted a diverse, international audience, and we expect that diversity to continue expanding. On the sector side, one of the most exciting growth areas is Broadcast AV, alongside traditional AV and systems integration. We’re also seeing increasing interest from hospitality, healthcare, education, and smart cities. The convergence of these sectors is creating unique opportunities, and ISE provides the perfect platform for professionals from different disciplines to come together, share ideas, and explore integrated solutions.

Geographically, Europe remains at the core of our audience, but we’re also seeing growing participation from North America, Asia, and the Middle East. Barcelona’s excellent international transport links and its status as a global hub make the event more accessible than ever, attracting visitors from regions that previously may not have attended.

AVNews: Finally, would you ever consider making ISE a hybrid (in-person and virtual) event to address sustainability concerns?

MB: The true energy of ISE comes alive when people are on the show floor, seeing, touching, and experiencing technology first-hand, and engaging in the spontaneous conversations that ignite fresh ideas, collaborations, and partnerships. No digital platform can fully replicate the serendipity and creative spark of these face-to-face interactions. At the same time, we leverage digital tools strategically to extend connections, amplify content, and keep the dialogue flowing before and after the event. Sustainability is central to every decision we make, and we remain committed to pioneering new ways to make ISE greener, ensuring that our industry’s most important gathering is both inspiring and responsible.

AVNews: Thanks Mike - have a great show!

ISE 2026, you never know!

From our introduction to this ISE 2026 special supplement, you will see that the show has much more to offer than product developments alone, with whole new technologies as the basis for innovative new applications and even brand-new business ventures. But ISE 2026 is about more than blue sky thinking, there are literally hundreds of new products and solutions on show at ISE that will benefit your business immediately. Here is AV News’ selection of some of the most eye-catching!

ViewSonic showcases integrated, streamlined Pro AV deployments

ViewSonic Corp will participate in ISE 2026 under the theme “Your Partner. Our Solutions (Booth 2R350). At the show the company will demonstrate how its comprehensive visual solutions support building-wide Pro AV deployments, offering a unified approach to modern visual presentation and team collaboration across reception areas, retail environments, meeting rooms, and large-scale spaces. “As organisations pursue more consistent and tailored experiences, cohesive display, audio, and control systems have become essential,” said Bonny Cheng, COO of ViewSonic. “By rethinking hardware simplicity, software usability, and ecosystem integration, ViewSonic leverages its hardware foundation and software development capabilities to simplify Pro AV deployment and management—empowering installation partners while delivering more efficient, integrated experiences for end users.”

With the expansion of Pro AV deployments across entire organisations, complexity has become a growing challenge. To address the challenges of fragmented systems and time-consuming installations, ViewSonic’s ISE 2026 booth will feature two primary scenario showcases: Future Large Venue and Future Meeting Room. ViewSonic’s Future Large Venue is centred on lowering the barriers to adopting large format visual technologies by advancing its All-in-One Direct View LED (dvLED) Displays. •295” LED video wall: a dvLED display utilizing Micro

LED in Package (MIP) technology to allow visitors to experience improved resolution, colour uniformity, and thermal performance compared to Chip on Board (COB) and Glue on Board (GOB) designs.

•Hands-on zone: an under-the-hood exhibit featuring the LDE Series that reveals its internal cabinet structure and highlights how its slim profile and clean mainboard layout reduce LED installation effort and overall deployment cost.

The Future Meeting Room exhibit is designed to deliver a simplified and intuitive meeting experience, supporting flexible deployments from huddle spaces to large meeting rooms.

•Huddle and small spaces: a 75-inch interactive display with a trolley and the new TeamJoin OS, enables intuitive meetings with one-touch access to casting, video conferencing, and whiteboarding, supported by seamless multitasking and enterprise-grade security.

•Medium to large rooms: the IFP92UW ultrawide interactive display, paired with the Microsoft Teams Rooms-certified TeamJoin solutions, provides an expansive collaboration space with one touch meeting join and instant content sharing. Meanwhile, dual presentation screens from the CDEG3 Series, combined with advanced TeamJoin solutions, enable scalable configurations that support split-task workflows and multi-speaker conferencing.

Building on its scenario-based showcases, ViewSonic presents a complete Pro AV ecosystem supported by a full range of commercial displays. These displays offer flexible resolution and configuration options, seamless compatibility with professional AV control systems, and centralised, IT-friendly management through ViewSonic Manager. Integrated with industry-leading Pro AV partner technologies, they ensure smooth system synchronization and a stable Audio-Visual over Internet Protocol (AVoIP) infrastructure—underscoring ViewSonic’s commitment to delivering reliable, future-ready Pro AV deployments.

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LED Studio targets simulation and smart display markets

LED Studio will unveil two distinct new LED display technologies at ISE 2026 that expand the company’s offering into high-performance simulation and space-saving dual-sided signage. Launching on Booth 3A100, the company will debut OSIRIS, a purpose-built display platform for mission-critical simulation environments, and GEMINI, a unique double-sided LED system housed within a single ultra-slim cabinet. These launches signal LED Studio’s strategic move into application-specific innovation, with products engineered not just for image quality, but for the evolving needs of training, testing and public-facing communication.

Making its debut at ISE, the 0.9mm OSIRIS display has been purpose-built for high-end, mission-critical simulation environments. OSIRIS supports true 3D visualisation with an ultra-smooth 240Hz refresh rate and multiple point-of-view (MPOV) capabilities, making it ideal for immersive training, automotive development, and advanced simulation. Setting a new benchmark in curved LED technology, OSIRIS is the first flexible ChipOn-Board (COB) LED display engineered with a true, built-in precision curve. Unlike traditional rubber modules that are bent post-installation, OSIRIS modules are CNC-manufactured with an integrated curve, delivering consistent surface uniformity and long-term structural integrity. Visitors can experience OSIRIS in action through a high-performance driving simulator, delivered in partnership with Livewire. The demo highlights the display’s low-latency handling, 5G data capability and robust architecture, designed for minimal downtime. OSIRIS features full power and data redundancy and a magnetic front-service design that enables fast, tool-free hot swapping, ideal for demanding applications where reliability is non-negotiable. To mark the launch, LED Studio and Livewire will host a competitive simulator challenge at ISE with visitors competing for

the fastest lap time, and the winner receiving an F1 racing experience.

Also being shown for the first time at ISE is GEMINI, LED Studio’s dual-sided LED display, housed within a single, ultra-slim 58mm cabinet. Unlike conventional solutions that place two cabinets back-to-back, Gemini is a purpose-built dual-display system engineered from the ground up for versatility and performance. Each side of GEMINI operates independently, enabling fully customised configurations. For example, a high-brightness outdoor-facing screen can be paired with a finepitch indoor COB display, each showing different content tailored to unique environments or audiences. With a compact 500x500mm footprint and a 1:1 aspect ratio, GEMINI brings functional elegance to a wide range of retail, transport, and public information settings.

Built with energy efficiency, ease of installation and front serviceability in mind, GEMINI simplifies deployment with integrated power and data connectivity while maintaining outstanding visual performance. Ryan Austin Smith, Sales Director at LED Studio, commented: “At LED Studio, innovation is driven by purpose. OSIRIS and GEMINI reflect our commitment to solving real-world challenges with intelligent design, exceptional quality and total system reliability. These solutions not only push visual performance but also embody our values of sustainability, operational simplicity and longterm value for our customers.” In addition to the product launches, LED Studio will showcase displays powered by 7thSense, Navori, and Colorlight, highlighting the company’s strong technology partnerships and commitment to open integration. LED Studio screens will also be featured live on the Peerless-AV booth, further demonstrating the flexibility of its products across mounting solutions and real-world use cases.

Groupe Novelty to showcase integration,

R&D and staging expertise

Groupe Novelty will return to ISE this year as a co-exhibitor with tracking solutions pioneer Naostage on Booth #6R100. At the show, Groupe Novelty will be demonstrating the depth of its technical capabilities as both a long-established event staging expert and experienced pro-AV integrator thanks to its group of specialist companies. With the help of its Barcelona based entity Novelty Spain, Groupe Novelty will act as the technical service provider for the full AVL set-up on the stand, giving visitors an overview of the group’s ability to design, deploy and operate complex systems combining video, lighting, audio, networking and more into a single cohesive environment.

The booth’s technical configuration will include a large-format experiential LED area, built around a 5m × 4m 2.6mm pp LED wall and 5m × 8m LED floor, driven by a SMODE media server (courtesy of Groupe Novelty company Alabama Média) with supporting signal distri-

bution and monitoring. The booth will also feature a live production set-up including Panasonic AW-UE150 4K PTZ cameras, a Yamaha QL1 digital mixer with Shure ULX-D wireless mics and a professional lighting rig including fixtures from Ayrton, Martin, Robe and Cameo controlled by a grandMA3 light console. Beyond its own booth Groupe Novelty will also be active across the wider show floor, serving as technical partner to the Analog Way booyh (3F800) and providing AVL equipment and set-up support for around half a dozen other exhibitors at the Barcelona show.

The company will also use ISE 2026 to highlight the work of its dedicated R&D capabilities and its unique role it plays in the industry as a trusted co-development partner for leading manufacturers. Recent areas of collaboration have included stage lifts, LED Fresnel lighting for cinema and broadcast production (with Godox), mesh LED, moving lights (with Robe) and semi-transparent LED panels (with Absen). The latest innovation from Groupe Novelty’s in-house R&D division (Teamagine), is a patent-pending precision measurement solution designed to calculate and monitor truss positions in real time using an industrial-grade LiDAR tracking system.

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Absen to unveil groundbreaking innovations at ISE 2026

Absen is set to redefine its future of visual solutions with an ambitious lineup of innovative products on Booth 3M400. Taking centre stage will be a series of pioneering displays engineered for maximum portability, superior durability, and uncompromising visual performance across the corporate, rental, and fixed installation sectors. Absen’s presence at the show will underscore its commitment to advancing Micro LED technologies, driving even higher resolution and greater reliability into every type of display application. The product showcase will feature significant upgrades across Absen’s core product lines, including:

•SA1.5 COB: SA1.5 is the next generation of the Saturn (SA) platform: a 1.5mm pixel pitch COB rental display. It features advanced flip-chip COB technology for stunning visuals and enhanced reliability. Built with a durable dual-layer die-cast magnesium cabinet, it’s designed for efficient rental operation, offering fast locking, full maintenance access, and backwards compatibility with SA series accessories. It’s also a pioneering product that empowers small-pitch stage display screens with COB technology, leading the revolution in stage display.

•CL V3 (Clear Cobalt Series V3): CL V3 is Absen’s flagship LED display, redefining the viewing experience with its peak visual performance. Utilising Micro LED technology and the industry-leading Black Matrix process, it is said to achieve extreme pure black levels, delivering superb contrast. Furthermore, the panel-level integrated packaging offers comprehensive protection for core components, ensuring reliable performance in various environments and setting a new benchmark for professional display solutions.

•AW Pro: this OOH innovation is an ultra-HD fine pitch display solution. It features flip chip COB technology with a pixel pitch of P1.25, delivering sharp, close view picture quality even outdoors. Built for all weather reliability, it integrates a streamlined design and smart cluster management to significantly simplify installation and maintenance, setting a new standard for urban streetscape aesthetics.

“ISE 2026 is where Absen’s next chapter comes to life. We’re advancing Micro LED and COB to deliver higher resolution and reliability across ProAV, Rental, and DOOH.” explains Tania Zhao, Vice President of Absen. “We look forward to welcoming the industry to the Absen stand 3M400 in Barcelona to officially launch the next chapter in LED innovation.”

Other featured products will include the PO Series which highlights Absen’s commitment to creative applications. These slim displays are crafted for high-impact use in retail environments, airports, stations and restaurant settings. Visitors to the Absen booth can expect to see a demonstration of true innovation with the debut of the X136F foldable screen. This all-in-one display takes the convenience of the popular Absen icon X series and

introduces a revolutionary foldable design, promising to drastically simplify the logistics and deployment of large-format LED in corporate meeting rooms and educational environments. Absen’s 2026 lineup demonstrates a holistic approach to the industry’s evolving needs and the company looks forward to welcoming visitors to its stand 3M400 at ISE in Barcelona.

Sharp Display Solutions at ISE 2026

“At Sharp, we focus on what matters most. Join us at ISE 2026 to discover how our solutions help organisations thrive in a rapidly changing working world. Listening and understanding the real needs of our customers, we connect people and technology to deliver trusted, tailored solutions for workplaces and public spaces. Together with our technology partners, we will present next-generation products and solutions that reflect our unwavering focus on what truly matters:

•Focus on reliability, durability, and precision#

•Focus on security and control

•Focus on sustainability

•Focus on technology innovation

At Sharp, we focus on what matters most. Join us at ISE 2026 to discover how our solutions help organisations thrive in a rapidly changing working world.”

“By listening and understanding the real needs of our customers, we connect people and technology to deliv-

er trusted, tailored solutions for workplaces and public spaces. Together with our technology partners, we will present next-generation products and solutions that reflect our unwavering focus on what truly matters: Through future-ready visual solutions, we help organisations build resilient, secure, and sustainable environments, enabling our customers to stay focused on what they do best:

•Focus on reliability, durability, and precision

•Focus on security and control

•Focus on sustainability

•Focus on technology innovation”

SiliconCore and TRAK-KIT present LED displays in motion

At ISE 2026 California based LED display manufacturer SiliconCore is partnering with NYC TRAK-KIT to break spatial limitations with a dynamic moving display showcase. Booth 5H100 will feature two high resolution configurations from SiliconCore’s Enlighten COB Series on a TRAK-KIT Multi Panel System to demonstrate how displays can be reconfigured in an instant to change an environment or engage an audience. TRAK-KIT manufactures made-to-measure architectural dynamic mobile solutions that redefine the viewing experience to create flexible spaces with digital backdrops for a variety of use cases such as multi-purpose rooms, retail environments, digital signage applications, collaboration

spaces and home installations.

For flexible workplaces, these systems unlock an environment’s hidden potential with options to use displays as part of the architecture as in a divider or backdrop. The system can easily change the displays orientation from portrait to landscape to fit any presentation requirement, create different sized canvases for visual impact and then move displays out of sight when not needed. These systems can be custom and either manual or fully automated with precise presets to be controlled via typical automation products such as Crestron, Extron, AMX, Lutron, Savant and control via RS-232 or 485.

For retail, digital signage and staging environments, kinetic display sequences can be programmed to capture attention, reconfigure store environments and ensure messaging is strategically placed to enhance and inform the customer journey. The displays bringing this to life are SiliconCore’s Enlighten 0.9mm and 1.2mm displays. Enlighten is SiliconCore’s COB Series which delivers dvLED displays with the highest performance and ultra-low power consumption. This is achieved using the manufacturer’s unique and patented technologies, with the more advanced Common Cathode IQ. This reduces operational costs consuming 10-40% less power than comparable COB products and up to 50% less than SMD.

Exceptional image quality, including colour uniformity and deeper blacks are achieved with SiliconCore’s ZACH technology and its LISA encapsulation method contributes further to the enhanced contrast ratios. Shadi Shahrokhi, Chief Designer and FOUNDER of TRAK-KIT said: “We are excited to package our dynamic motion systems with the modularity and low power consumption of SiliconCore’s advanced LED technology. Together, we are delivering truly unique, large format dvLED displays that can move, rotate and transform spaces in ways previously considered impossible. By maximizing the modularity and visual clarity of dvLED displays, we are able to expand the creative potential for projects and physically transform spaces. In SiliconCore, we found a partner equally committed to innovation and sustainability. Their Common Cathode architecture and in-house driver chip development make their displays one of the best designed in the industry, which aligns perfectly with our goal to create flexible systems that are as smart and sustainable as they are visually impactful.”

Jim Wickenhiser, Chief Operating Officer at SiliconCore commented: “This collaboration with TRAK-KIT unlocks entirely new ways for dvLED displays to integrate into the built environment. By combining our Enlighten Series with their kinetic mounting systems, we’re enabling displays that not only move, but that serve as dynamic architectural elements, partitioning spaces, adapting to content needs and enhancing user engagement. “It’s a perfect showcase of how SiliconCore’s ultra-low power, high-performance technology can be easily customized to support evolving spatial and visual requirements, whether in flexible workplaces, immersive retail or high-impact brand environments.”

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DISPLAY

AUO Display Plus to showcase next-gen smart retail solutions

AUO Display Plus (ADP) will showcase integrated solutions designed to redefine retail experiences through sustainable innovation at booth 2S200 at ISE 2026. Under the theme, ‘Design without limits’, ADP will present its AecoRetail suite, including AecoPost and AecoTag, empowering retailers with energy-efficient, smart display solutions that enhance customer engagement while reducing environmental impact. By showcasing a full range of ePaper displays at ISE, ADP will demonstrate how these solutions fit into real-world retail applications. “At ISE 2026, we’re not just displaying products – we’re demonstrating a vision for retail that’s immersive, eco-friendly and efficient,” says SH Liao, Chief Operating Officer and General Manager of Smart Retail Business Group at AUO Display Plus. “By combining cutting-edge display technology with software and complementary technologies, ADP enables retailers to create seamless, scalable experiences that delight customers and optimize operations for greater ROI and sustainability.”

•AecoPost – Unplugged, full colour ePaper solution ADP will showcase AecoPost: a lightweight, battery-powered ePaper signage solution designed for sustainable, long-lasting performance. Enabled by E Ink Spectra 6 technology and enhanced by ADP’s proprietary AecoColor+ algorithm, AecoPost delivers richer colours and paper-like viewing comfort. Requiring zero power to maintain a static image and backed by a long-lasting built-in battery, it ensures vivid visual impact with minimal energy use, embracing simplicity with installation flexibility without wiring.

Content management is flexible. Businesses can manage content centrally across multiple locations via a cloud-based platform, integrate with their own CMS through APIs, or use the dedicated mobile app for fast deployment and on-the-go updates. By adopting AecoPost, retailers streamline operations by eliminating the lengthy printing and delivery processes of traditional posters, significantly reducing costs, power consumption, and paper waste. This solution simplifies in-store communication while enhancing engagement and sustainability with powerful visual performance.

• AecoTag – A sustainable ESL solution for modern retail

AecoTag is a cloud-based electronic shelf labelling (ESL) solution that enables real-time, wireless price updates, dynamic promotions, and centralized control across retail locations. Pricing and content can be synchronised instantly from headquarters to stores, streamlining in-store operations to increase efficiency and accuracy. Designed for operational scalability, the system supports deployments of up to 4,000 AecoTag units, ensuring reliable performance for large-scale installations. Its ultra-low power consumption and long battery life contribute to a lower total cost of ownership, while also helping retailers reduce paper waste and labour

costs, meet sustainability goals, and enhance the customer experience.

Beyond AecoRetail, ADP will present a further range of retail products at ISE, from ePaper, MicroLED, and Ultra-Slim LCD signage to integrated CMS platforms. This offering represents a fusion of advanced display hardware, intelligent software, delivering integrated, future-ready experiences for global retailers and connected environments.

ADP’s commitment to sustainable display innovation is powered by its strategic partnership with E Ink. This alliance enables ADP to integrate cutting-edge ePaper technology into its solutions. Demonstrating the strength of this partnership, E Ink’s eye-catching 75” Color ePaper signage is featured at ADP’s showcase during ISE, highlighting the vast potential of large format ePaper for stunning advertising and information displays. Together, the companies are expanding the future of ePaper signage and will continue to collaborate on a more comprehensive product portfolio for global markets.

As a dedicated display solutions provider, ADP is more than a technology innovator – it is a partner in building open, collaborative ecosystems. By uniting display hardware, scalable software platforms, and a robust network of partners, ADP delivers integrated solutions that empower diverse verticals sectors, including retail, education, enterprise, healthcare, and more.

Alfalite will take part in ISE 2026 with a special showcase marking the company’s 20th anniversary. Under the slogan “20 years lighting the future”, Alfalite will feature two adjacent Booths in Hall 4 (4Q300 and 4Q400), where it will present both the evolution of its proprietary technology and its application in highly critical professional environments. Alfalite’s presence at ISE 2026 will follow a dual approach: on the one hand, a display of its LED technology in its purest form; on the other, an applied demonstration focused on control rooms, defence, security and broadcast - strategic areas for the company in this new phase. “Reaching 20 years as a European LED display manufacturer is a milestone that reinforces our way of understanding technology: in-house development, extreme reliability and a long-term vision,” says Jesús Cabrera, CEO of Alfalite. “ISE 2026 is the ideal setting to show not only how far we have come, but also where we are heading.” Alfalite’s main booth at ISE 2026 (4Q300) will be entirely dedicated to the manufacturer’s own technology. Here, the company will present the most advanced portfolio developed over its 20-year history, with a clear focus on its highest-value technological solutions. Among the highlights is UHD Finepix MATIX AlfaCOB

and AlfaMIP, Alfalite’s premium solution for ultra-high-resolution fixed installations. Designed for corporate, broadcast and mission-critical environments, this series delivers advanced colour accuracy, high durability and a perfectly uniform visual finish, along with a design that simplifies maintenance and adapts easily to any environment. The booth will also feature Neopix MATIX AlfaCOB, the evolution of Alfalite’s professional rental range, developed for live productions, events and VP XR virtual production applications. This series combines a lightweight yet robust structure with fast installation and high operational reliability, maintaining consistent visual quality even in complex configurations.

All these ranges incorporate MATIX technology, developed entirely by Alfalite, which enhances LED module protection, chromatic and luminance uniformity, thermal dissipation and overall system resilience—key factors in professional applications where service continuity is essential. In addition, visitors will be able to see Litepix, a well-established reference in the rental market thanks to its versatility and robustness, as well as Modularpix Pro, designed for demanding fixed installations in corporate, retail and entertainment environments. Located opposite the main booth, booth 4Q400 will present an applied demonstration based on UHD Finepix MATIX AlfaCOB, recreating a control room environment focused on defence, security and broadcast monitoring. This space will showcase real-time 3D graphics and secured, encrypted signal workflows, integrated within the Connectivity Ecosystem—a technology alliance formed with companies such as Brainstorm, Domo, Eutelsat, One Way, FOR.A, Dejero, Ontario Solutions and RGB Spectrum.

The aim is to demonstrate how Alfalite’s LED technology integrates into complex infrastructures where continuous visualisation, redundancy and 24/7 reliability are decisive for accurate decision-making. “In control rooms and operations centres, there is no margin for error. Every component matters”, explains Cabrera. “That’s why we have spent years designing LED panels intended to operate in a stable, redundant and continuous manner in environments where tolerance for failure is virtually zero.” In addition to its two booths, Alfalite will also provide LED screens for the Ontario Solutions/ Dejero Booth (4N550), as part of the Connectivity Ecosystem, further reinforcing its presence in the field of critical and advanced connectivity solutions.

Alfalite’s participation in ISE 2026 marks the beginning of a new chapter for the company. After two decades of experience, Alfalite looks to the future with a clear commitment to proprietary innovation, mission-critical environments and the development of increasingly demanding visual experiences - particularly in professional television production, control rooms and strategic applications. “This 20th anniversary is not just a celebration, but a starting point,” concludes Jesús Cabrera. “We continue to move forward with the same passion as on day one, confident that the best of Alfalite is still to come.”

Panasonic to showcase “next generation projection” at ISE 2026

Panasonic will demonstrate the future of professional visual technology at ISE 2026, unveiling a comprehensive portfolio of projection, LED and workflow solutions designed to meet the evolving demands of live events, immersive experiences, education, corporate and signage environments. Highlights will include:

Under its Mevix branding, Panasonic’s latest projection and LED technologies are engineered to balance high-performance visuals with simplified installation, improved reliability and a lower total cost of ownership - enabling integrators and end users to deploy advanced visual experiences across a broader range of venues. The latest technical innovations will see Panasonic well positioned as the next generation of visual content technology enables new market opportunities. “Our customers are looking for high-impact visuals without compromise - in performance, flexibility or efficiency,” said Hartmut Kulessa, Head of Marketing Visual Systems at Panasonic Connect Europe. “At ISE 2026, we are introducing a new way to deliver premium quality LED video walls, plus a projection light-source platform that delivers true 3-Chip DLP performance without the traditional limitations associated with 1-Chip systems. These developments reinforce our long-term commitment to innovation and to supporting our partners worldwide.”

Panasonic will also highlight its wider ecosystem of projection, display and software-driven workflow tools, designed to simplify system design, reduce downtime

and support scalable, future-ready installations across entertainment, signage, education and corporate communication. Visitors to ISE 2026 can experience Panasonic’s latest visual innovations at Booth 3J500. Panasonic to showcase new VMQ85 series with immersive golf simulator

Panasonic Projector and Display Corporation will introduce its new VMQ85 Series of 4K LCD projectors to European audiences for the first time at ISE 2026. The VMQ85 will take centre stage at Panasonic’s ISE booth (3J500), where visitors can experience the projector’s capabilities first-hand through an interactive golf simulator. Developed with simulation-led environments in mind, the VMQ85 Series includes Panasonic’s first 4K LCD projector. Its square-pixel architecture produces finely detailed, close-range visuals with reduced pixel structure, supporting highly realistic imagery that is critical for immersive applications such as sports simulation and interactive experiences.

Lightweight at under 8 kg, the VMQ85 has been engineered to simplify installation in compact or challenging spaces such as simulator bays and dedicated experience rooms. Despite its small footprint, it delivers three different models up to an impressive 8,000 lumens and incorporates Panasonic’s 2-axis pixel-shifting technology. For fixed-lens installations, the VMQ85 offers a flexible 1.09–1.77:1 throw ratio, supported by a 1.6x optical zoom and generous lens shift (vertical: +44%, horizontal: ±20%), providing a wide adjustment range to suit a variety of room sizes and layouts without compromising image alignment.

The projector also features a dedicated Vivid Green

Mode, specifically optimised for golf simulation environments. This mode enhances green tones and turf textures, helping to deliver more realistic course visuals and clearer ball tracking, even in controlled ambient-light conditions. Image clarity is maintained across curved or angled surfaces, enabling creative freedom for immersive simulator designs. “ISE is the perfect occasion for introducing the VMQ85 Series to Europe,” said Hartmut Kulessa, Head of Marketing – Visual System Solutions, Panasonic Connect Europe. “Demand for immersive simulation experiences continues to grow, and the VMQ85 was developed to make these environments easier to create without compromising on visual quality or installation flexibility. Our golf simulator at ISE gives visitors a hands-on way to experience how the VMQ85 performs in a real-world simulation setting”. The VMQ85 also delivers efficiency and sustainability improvements. Approximately 50% of the projector’s plastic body is manufactured using recycled resin, while recyclable cardboard is used for packaging cushions. An integrated Image Detection function further supports energy efficiency by automatically reducing light output when projected content remains unchanged for a defined period, helping to lower power consumption without compromising brightness when needed. A comprehensive suite of installation and adjustment

tools - including an on-screen Angle Monitor for intuitive tilt visualisation - supports fast and accurate setup. Adachi, CEO of Panasonic Projector and Display Corporation, stated: “We will continue to bring compelling new products to the market through our innovative 4K driving technology. We will lead the development of new projector applications, such as the emerging sports simulation market, and strengthen MEVIX’s position as the leading 4K projector brand, driving further growth in the large screen display industry.” The VMQ85 and golf simulator will be shown at the Panasonic stand (3J500), alongside the company’s latest solutions for conferencing and collaboration, education, large-scale display, digital signage and more.

TAURUS TPN AND NEW MATRIX MANAGEMENT UNIT

Lightware’s Taurus TPN provides a predictable 10G SDVoE-based AV-over-IP platform with centralized device and routing management through the MMU. It discovers and configures all endpoints from a single interface, reducing deployment time and system complexity. With scalable architectures up to 20 endpoints, 4K60 performance, and enterprise-ready network compliance, the TPN + MMU combination delivers a stable, controllable and expandable AV backbone for multi-room and campus environments.

■ Centralized endpoint and routing management via the MMU

■ Single interface for configuration, monitoring and diagnostics

■ Enterprise-ready network compliance (VLANs, 802.1X, TLS, Syslog)

■ Scalable deployment with MMU-X100-20

■ Deterministic 4K60 SDVoE performance with nearzero latency

■ Network-based USB routing for flexible BYOM and device allocation

■ Open LW3 API for efficient integration with control systems

Come and see Lightware’s Taurus TPN and MMU in action at ISE 2026

COLLABORATION

Pleneo launches designed to rethink large meeting rooms

Pleneo has announced its launch as a new collaboration technology company introducing a fresh approach to medium and large meeting rooms. While small meeting rooms are now routinely deployed as standard IT endpoints, larger rooms are still delivered room by room, making them harder to deploy, more complex to operate and increasingly difficult to manage consistently as organisations scale. Pleneo has been created to address this gap and will exhibit at ISE 2026, Booth 2-R500.

Built by the team behind Xilica, a 25-year professional audio brand with thousands of large rooms deployed globally, Pleneo combines deep experience in complex spaces with a new operating model designed for modern IT and UC environments. Rather than treating each room as a bespoke project, Pleneo focuses on enabling rooms to behave and be managed as a single system, enabling simple deployment for IT teams and clearer, more repeatable delivery for UC and AV channel partners. At the heart of Pleneo is Room OS, a software-driven operating layer that defines how medium and large meeting rooms are deployed and operated. Room OS combines secure, on-device intelligence with cloudbased orchestration via Pleneo Cloud, enabling zero-touch provisioning of component-based room systems. Audio, video, and room peripherals are brought together into a single, manageable environment, delivering consistent, high-quality deployments, without manual intervention or adjustment of room settings. This approach is anchored by RoomHub, the physical heart of the Pleneo room solution. Originally developed within Xilica and now forming a core part of the Pleneo platform, RoomHub brings secure, localised edge intelligence into the room while remaining tightly integrated with Pleneo Cloud. By processing audio and video at the edge, RoomHub enables advanced capabilities such as AI-driven AutoDeploy, NoiseSense, ML-based de-reverberation, video intelligence and IQ Voice Enhancement, ensuring consistent, high-quality room inputs while keeping latency low and sensitive data local. By standardising how rooms are deployed, commissioned and managed, Pleneo removes much of the uncertainty traditionally associated with larger room projects.

Rooms can be delivered and managed as complete systems rather than collections of individual devices, enabling more predictable outcomes, cleaner handover and consistent rollout at scale across sites. James Knight, CEO of Pleneo says: “Large meeting rooms are no longer special cases. They’re increasingly part of the core collaboration estate, and they need to fit naturally into IT and UC operating models. Pleneo was created to offer a new way forward - one that makes large rooms easier to deploy, easier to operate, with a user experience ready for what collaboration is becoming.” As collaboration platforms increasingly incorporate intelligent assistants and AI-powered workplace capabili-

ties, meeting rooms are becoming critical inputs into how conversations are captured, summarised and acted upon. In medium and large spaces, the quality and consistency of system inputs, including audio, video and spatial context, directly affect outcomes such as transcription accuracy, speaker attribution and post-meeting insight. Pleneo is designed to make it practical to deliver these high-quality inputs at scale in complex environments, enabling organisations to adopt intelligent collaboration with confidence and consistency. Pleneo is designed to be IT-native from day one. Room OS is built with enterprise security, scalability and operational ownership at its core, supporting local data sovereignty and aligning with recognised standards including SOC 2 Type II and ISO 27001. This enables organisations and their partners to deploy medium and large rooms with the same governance and confidence expected of modern enterprise systems.

Craig Durr, Chief Analyst at The Collab Collective adds: “As collaboration platforms become more intelligent, the expectations placed on meeting rooms have changed. Consistent, high-quality room inputs are now critical, particularly in medium and large spaces where variability has traditionally undermined outcomes. Pleneo is approaching this challenge at the system level, which is exactly what the market needs as organisations try to scale intelligent collaboration beyond small rooms.” Pleneo launches with immediate product availability through a global distribution network spanning more than 60 countries, supported by customer success teams across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, India, and Asia.

Canon to showcase automated video and PTZ innovations

Canon announces its return to ISE where it will demonstrate how its latest PTZ and automated video solutions are transforming video conferencing, lecture capture and corporate content production. With over a decade of participation at ISE, Canon will continue its focus on helping organisations simplify video production, enhance learning experiences and future-proof AV investments through intelligent automation and broad system compatibility. Canon will showcase how automated, multi-camera solutions can support a wide range of professional environments, removing technical complexity while delivering consistent, high-quality results. Each dedicated technology zone demonstrates how automation makes advanced video production more accessible, efficient and scalable, highlighting all major third-party brands compatible with Canon cameras and making it easy for visitors to identify integration opportunities and locate partner stands across the show floor.

The Video Conferencing Zone showcases video and audio tracking solutions for corporate meeting rooms, supporting the growing demand for hybrid workplaces and compatibility with leading brands including Inogeni and StackControl.The Government Conference Zone demonstrates how PTZ cameras integrate with industry-leading government and conference systems such as Arbor – the professional live streaming and recording platform for the public sector – for councils or court rooms to distribute live videos and archive videos. The Automated Hybrid Learning Zone highlights education and training workflows, showing how Canon PTZ cameras combined with Extron and TrackingMaster enable consistent, high-quality hybrid and online learning with minimal operator intervention.

The Corporate Studio Zone will show – through live demonstrations that include the Innovative Multi-Camera Orchestration – how organisations can build large-format in-house studios using Pan Tilt head solutions from MultiCAM Systems and Zanus. Canon will also showcase how these solutions integrate with the XC Protocol, enabling precise, responsive camera control across a wide range of professional environments. ISE 2026 visitors will be among the first to experience Canon’s latest PTZ cameras, including the new CR-N400 and CR-N350 models plus the latest addition to the Cinema EOS range, the EOS C50. Canon will demonstrate how these additions support the specific needs of corporate, education, government and system integrator customers, from enhanced image quality to improved operational flexibility.

The team from Canon are keen to foster new and existing relationships, particularly with system integrators, AV consultants and industry experts. The team will be hosting a free-to-attend networking drinks event, held from 4-6pm on Wednesday, 4 February, on the Canon stand, where experts will be on hand to discuss the various solutions available. Find Canon in Hall 3 at stand 3N300.

Datapath unveils Aligo Workstation and embarks on a new chapter

Datapath will unveil its new Aligo Workstation at ISE 2026 (Fira de Barcelona, Gran Via, 3rd to 6th February 2026, Booth 5C500), marking the brand’s first appearance as part of the VITEC family. Aligo Workstation is a purpose-built interface delivering real-time control for modern mission-critical environments as part of its complete control room solution, Aetria. Offering seamless integration with Aligo, Datapath’s intelligent AVover-IP and KVM platform, Aligo Workstation provides intuitive multi-screen KVM control with sub-millisecond latency, empowering operators with rapid, secure, and flexible management of all sources. Datapath will exhibit alongside VITEC in Hall 5 at the show, following its acquisition of Datapath.

Featuring built-in OneControl technology, Aligo Workstation users can effortlessly switch keyboard and mouse focus across multiple screens simply by moving the cursor, with no hotkeys or extra hardware required. With support for HD, 4K, and ultrawide monitors, Aligo Workstation offers unmatched display flexibility. Operators can instantly open sources, save and recall layouts, and share configurations across the Aetria ecosystem, all while benefiting from direct hardware access and robust user rights management for enhanced security and response times. Visitors to the stand can step into a full replica control room and experience the complete solution featuring two operator workstations - one pow-

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ered by Aligo Workstation and the other by Aetria Workstation - allowing attendees to get hands-on and compare the available options.

This year’s ISE marks the beginning of a new chapter for Datapath, as the company joins forces with VITEC. The strategic acquisition brings together two industry leaders in video technology, combining VITEC’s IPTV distribution expertise with Datapath’s advanced video wall and control room solutions. This integration broadens the portfolio of both companies but also accelerates product development and enhances support for customers in mission-critical sectors. Datapath’s product names will remain within the VITEC portfolio, ensuring continuity for customers while enhancing support and ongoing development. Datapath continues to push the boundaries of control room and video wall management. The company’s commitment to engineering excellence and customer-focused solutions remains at the heart of its mission, now further strengthened by the resources and expertise of VITEC.

PlexusAV to show all-new products and features at ISE 2026

PlexusAV, the professional AV division of Sencore, providing a suite of human-focused AV-over-IP solutions, is excited to announce a wide range of new products to be showcased at ISE 2026. Steven Cogels - Global Director of Business Development for PlexusAV advised: “At ISE 2026, PlexusAV will introduce a comprehensive lineup of new IPMX-enabled solutions, starting with the P-AVN4-E and P-AVN-4-D encoder and decoder. These dedicated IPMX JPEG-XS/FIP endpoints are engineered for high performance and cost efficiency, supporting JPEGXS and FIP/TDC for visually lossless quality with even the most challenging desktop content. Featuring subframe latency, fully integrated KVM, and optional Dante audio, the 4-Series sets a new benchmark for standards-based AV-over-IP workflows with its exceptional price-to-performance ratio.”

Also new for ISE 2026, will be the PlexusAV Charge-

Link (P-AVN-CL100), a USB-C one-cable connection hub. Designed for small and mid-sized meeting spaces, the P-AVN-CL100 provides a true one-cable user experience. With a single USB-C connection, users gain network access, USB data transferring, video sharing, and up to 100W power delivery, making meetings faster, cleaner, and more intuitive. PlexusAV will also showcase a breakthrough in low-latency, high-quality H.264/H.265 streaming with the new P-AVN-2E encoder and P-AVN2D decoder. Delivering excellent image fidelity at just 40 Mbps and achieving an impressive 33 ms end-to-end latency, the P-AVN-2E and P-AVN-2D demonstrate that outstanding visual performance and responsiveness are achievable even on bandwidth-constrained networks. These models redefine what’s possible with highly efficient, standards-based AV over IP. With native USB support for KVM routing, they seamlessly enable interactive workflows and remote-control experiences PlexusAV is also entering an entirely new product market with the P-ANS-6CW1D (Dante) and P-ANS-6CW1A (AES67), set to make a major impact at the show. The new P-ANS-6CW ceiling speaker family brings high-quality networked audio to professional installations. Available in Dante or AES67 variants, each model is a full-range, PoE+-powered speaker that requires only a single Ethernet cable for power, audio, control, and management. Fully NMOS-enabled — a first in the ceiling-speaker category — these models integrate seamlessly into modern audio-over-IP and IPMX-aligned workflows, offering unmatched interoperability and ease of deployment. The PlexusAV booth at ISE 2026, is in Hall 5, Booth #5J700.

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ProjX360 makes international debut at ISE 2026

ProjX360, a modern project-management and operations platform purpose-built for the AV integration industry, is proud to introduce its solution to the international market at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) in Barcelona. Built by integrators, for integrators, ProjX360 was designed to solve one of the industry’s most persistent challenges: managing complex projects across residential and commercial environments without losing visibility, accountability, or profitability. Unlike traditional AV software that treats each proposal as its own project, ProjX360 is structured around the real-world way integrators operate - by location. “Integrators don’t think in terms of disconnected proposalsthey think in terms of homes and business locations,” said Doug Greenwald, founder & CEO of ProjX360.

“Whether it’s audio, video, lighting, shades, or future expansions, everything belongs to one physical location. ProjX360 treats a project as that location and allows multiple proposals, systems, and phases to live together. That structure fundamentally changes how projects and long-term service are managed.”

ProjX360 was created by industry professionals with decades of hands-on integration experience. Doug Greenwald has owned and operated his AV integration company continuously since 2001 and still runs it today - giving ProjX360 a foundation rooted in real-world workflows, operational challenges, and financial ac-

countability. The platform reflects how integration businesses actually function, not how software vendors assume they do. ProjX360 supports the complete lifecycle of an integration project, from sales and proposals through project execution, inventory, invoicing, and ongoing service. Key capabilities include:

•Location-based project management for residential and commercial environments

•Multiple proposals per project without fragmenting project data

•Dedicated service workorders separate from new project workorders

•Inventory and purchasing tools built for AV operations

•Flexible proposal builders to match different sales processes and company sizes

•Seamless integration with QuickBooks for accounting and financial workflows

By keeping all documents, discussions, tasks, invoices, and service history organized under a single location, ProjX360 reduces internal friction, improves team coordination, and delivers a better client experience. ISE attendees are invited to experience how ProjX360 is redefining AV project management with a location-first approach designed for clarity, scalability, and long-term service success.

Sennheiser Group showcases audio innovations at ISE 2026

At ISE 2026, the Sennheiser Group invites attendees to step into its newly designed dual booth space (3B500 and 3B700), built for exploration and connection with its brands Sennheiser, Neumann.Berlin, AMBEO, and Merging Technologies as well as its partner SoundBase.

The booth will feature hands-on experiences and an engaging demo room, highlighting the Group’s latest audio innovations for educational, corporate, live audio, broadcasting and studio spaces. Every zone of the Sennheiser Group’s booth is crafted to inspire. Visitors can experience firsthand how Sennheiser’s scalable audio solutions adapt seamlessly to any application, environment or need. From interactive demos to hands-on product showcases, the booth encourages meaningful conversations with passionate experts ready to guide attendees through every innovation.

Sennheiser will present its latest advancements in:

•AV Management – Simplifying workflows for IT and AV teams via cloud-based management.

•Voice Lift Technology – Delivering crystal-clear speech in challenging environments.

•RF Coordination and Wireless Audio – Setting new standards for reliability and scalability.

* Immersive Audio – Transforming how professionals experience sound.

To kick the show off, Daniel Sennheiser, Chairman of

the Board of Directors of the Sennheiser Group, will participate in the ISE 2026 Investor Forum. As part of the forum, Mr. Sennheiser will sit on the “Reflections from the Money-side” panel, scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, 3 February, in the Fira Barcelona Gran Via, Room CC5.1. Panellists will share the opportunities and challenges they have found in exploring investments in the pro AV space, including perspectives from all manner of investor types, whether venture capital, private equity, or corporate.

Sennheiser’s Business Communication zone focuses on making collaboration and learning easier. Whether designing hybrid learning spaces, managing AV across campuses or integrating BYOD solutions, Sennheiser offers tools that simplify complexity. A highlight is the state-of-the-art soundproof demo room, where visitors can explore the TeamConnect Bar and TeamConnect Ceiling Solutions. Here, Sennheiser will also demonstrate TruVoicelift in one of the most hostile audio environments — the trade show floor — proving how effortless and powerful voice lift can be. Visitors can join the ISE26 Hunt, an interactive challenge that highlights Sennheiser’s Partner Ecosystem. By scanning QR codes and completing quick tasks, participants can unlock exclusive prizes—including this year’s coveted Sennheiser socks - while discovering how Sennheiser and its partners create connected, flexible environments.

At ISE 2026, Sennheiser will officially launch DeviceHub, a secure, cloud-based platform designed for IT and AV managers, as well as system integrators. DeviceHub centralizes device visibility and remote management, streamlining workflows across enterprise, ed-

ucation, and corporate settings. DeviceHub provides real-time insights, simplified setup, and unified control, supporting organizations in creating better spaces for communication, learning, and teamwork. Following a successful private beta, ISE marks the transition to public availability. Visitors can explore DeviceHub’s capabilities and speak directly with product experts about how it can transform their AV and IT operations.

Initially available for TeamConnect Bar Solutions, compatibility will expand to additional Sennheiser devices throughout 2026.

Spectera, the world’s first bidirectional wideband wireless ecosystem, continues to evolve, with the Spectera Lab previewing the most exciting upcoming functionalities. For example, ISE visitors can explore the SKM handheld transmitter including the Command adapter and the Base Station ZMAN for SMPTE 2110 broadcast workflows. Also, Sennheiser will in future give access to Spectera’s API, allowing for advanced customization and control across multi-vendor workflows. Sennheiser’s Spectera experts will be on site to give guests a deep dive into the Sennheiser implementation of WMAS and the many advantages it brings to wireless workflows.

The Sennheiser team are delighted to welcome SoundBase as a partner, and will be demoing their app, which is the world’s first universal wireless audio management software. Universal RF planning and collaborative workflows are the hallmarks of the SoundBase app, which eliminates the need to switch between different manufacturers’ software when frequency-coordinating a wireless audio system. Developed by audio veterans Matt Dale and Donny Kuser, the app integrates with equipment from all major manufacturers and enables seamless remote collaboration. At ISE 2026, an exciting addition to the free version of the app will be announced. SoundBase works with wireless systems from every major manufacturer, providing the audio team with a single, time-saving and efficient workflow. Neumann’s end-to-end solutions for immersive audio. The booth also features an immersive studio area by Neumann featuring a full 7.1.4 setup with KH 150 and KH 120 II studio monitors as well as the brand-new KH 810 II subwoofer with multichannel bass management. The immersive setup will be controlled via Neumann’s highend audio interface MT 48, seamlessly paired with several Merging Hapi MK III units featuring all available I/O extension cards. A MassCore system will run Merging’s acclaimed Pyramix 15 and Ovation 11 software. Also on display will be Merging’s Anubis interface featuring the AMBEO spatial audio plugin.

Another highlight will be VIS – Virtual Immersive Studio, Neumann’s groundbreaking app for Apple Vision Pro. VIS is the missing link between spatial audio and spatial computing, making immersive mixing intuitive. Users can see and arrange audio sources around them in three-dimensional space using hand gestures. Visitors are invited to experience VIS for themselves and get a glimpse of the future of immersive audio. Although VIS can be used with an immersive loudspeaker setup,

it also supports RIME, which will also be demonstrated separately. RIME, recently updated to version 1.5, is Neumann’s solution for immersive monitoring on NDH 20 and NDH 30 headphones – with stunning realism. Also on display will be Neumann’s famous KU 100 binaural head (aka “Fritz”) as well as a selection of reissued microphone legends such as the M 49 V and U 67.

AtlasIED launches new PoE++-powered additions to Atlas+Fyne

AtlasIED will return to Barcelona this year (Booth #2R170) to showcase its extensive and renowned AV product line. The display will feature new additions to the Atlas+Fyne premium loudspeaker series, on display at stand #2R170 from February 3 to 6 at Fira Barcelona Gran Via. At ISE 2026, AtlasIED is unveiling the new Atlas+Fyne FC-D (Ceiling), and FS-D (Surface) Dante-enabled PoE++ loudspeakers that deliver full-bandwidth, high-output performance by combining the efficiency of PoE++ power delivery with the acoustic precision of IsoFlare point-source transducer technology. Unlike traditional PoE loudspeakers, which compromise on headroom and dynamic range due to power limitations, this solution leverages PoE++ to unlock the loudspeaker’s full performance potential via a single network cable. The result is the first PoE loudspeaker capable of delivering premium audio without sonic trade-offs, redefining expectations for network-powered loudspeakers.

At the heart of each model is the IsoFlare driver, a true point-source transducer engineered for phase-coherent summation across the entire passband. Its integrated waveguide geometry ensures constant directivity, reduced off-axis coloration, and improved time-domain accuracy, resulting in highly predictable coverage. The mechanically aligned HF/LF centres negate inter-driver latency, delivering lobe-free dispersion—critical for premium applications. “The initial launch of Atlas+Fyne at ISE 2025 was groundbreaking, and this latest addition is expected to make an even greater impact,” said Graham Hendry, VP of Loudspeaker Strategy, AtlasIED. “Following the success of the Atlas+Fyne launch at last year’s show, we realized the need to return with even more strength. The expansion of our brand, along with the introduction of two new amplifier series, solidifies our position in the industry and at the show.”

K-array returns to ISE with exciting new product launches

Committed to pushing boundaries in terms of performance and product design, K-array is pleased to present at the show the new Thunder KSCARDIO412P cardioid subwoofer and the Koral KO102 compact column loudspeaker. Other highlights from across the K-array group brands include the new KSCAPE CORE controller which brings together audio and lighting, the KGEAR GT8 full-range point source loudspeaker and the K-ARRAY Capture KMC20 MKI line-array microphone – all on show on booth 7G300. “We are excited to debut so many new innovations from across the K-array brands at ISE 2026,” explains Lorenzo De Poi, brand manager at K-array. “We have been very focused on identifying and bridging any gaps in our product portfolio. Our goal is to offer installers and designers a complete portfolio of solutions to work with from a single, trusted, high-performance ecosystem of products.”

The new Koral KO102 highlights K-array’s approach to blending performance technology with sleek, discreet product design. Combining controlled directivity with a minimal footprint, the KO102 provides the output of a larger system whilst remaining visually discreet enough for premium AV applications, such as high-end hospitality venues, retail, corporate and more. From discretion to power, the exciting addition of Thunder KSCARDIO412P marks K-array’s first foray into the world of cardioid subwoofers. Engineered to deliver powerful low-frequency output whilst drastically minimizing rear sound radiation, Thunder KSCARDIO412P is designed

for professional live sound and fixed installations. “The concept was to deliver a real, powerful cardioid system that is ‘plug and play’ and compact enough for touring and fixed installations, solving stage noise issues without complex setups,” explains De Poi. “With KSCARDIO412P you have more control, less feedback, and versatility without performance loss in both horizontal and vertical positions in a lightweight package, making it a smart choice for clubs, touring and live events.”

Adding to this impressive line-up is CORE, an intelligent control system engineered to deliver effortless integration and simplified management of both audio and lighting within K-array’s KSCAPE ecosystem. Designed to serve as the central brain of any KSCAPE RAIL system, CORE transforms complex technological elements into a single, cohesive experience for architectural applications, offering flexibility with either direct RAIL mounting or remote-control unit installation options. In corporate spaces, CORE enhances efficiency and communication, ensuring rapid setup, whilst hospitality environments benefit from the atmosphere of the perfect alignment of light, sound and control. The KGEAR brand will also welcome a new development to its GT family of products: the GT8. A compact point-source loudspeaker designed for versatile use in small venues, retail spaces, worship environments and portable PA systems, the G8 preserves the same clean voicing and practical design philosophy that defines the rest of the series. A key strength of the GT8 is its ability to be arrayed both vertically and horizontally, enabling scalable system configurations from distributed setups to multi-cabinet clusters. Dual SpeakOn NL4 connectors and an 8-ohm impedance ensure straightforward integration into existing installations or rental inventories.

Finally, a much-anticipated addition to K-ARRAY’s KMC microphone portfolio comes in the form of the new Capture KMC20 MKI, an ultra-slim line array microphone featuring upgraded capsules, built-in preamp, 3D-printed steel body, integrated XLR cable and new mounting accessories. “We created the new Capture KMC20 MKI to deliver superior audio performance, enhanced durability whilst maintaining that elegant, discreet form-factor that characterizes the original KM20,” confirms De Poi. “The improvements we’ve made enhance performance, durability and improve overall system value, making the MKI a more compelling choice in a range of modern audio environments, from meeting rooms to houses of worship.”

Experience innovations from across the K-array ecosystem at the on-stand demo room on booth 7G300. The K-array team also invites attendees to join them on the booth daily from 5 pm onwards for a taste of traditional Tuscan hospitality during their unmissable K-Experience Happy Hour.

Fira de Barcelona | Gran Via 3 - 6 Feb 2026

UNIFIED COMMUNICATIONS

EDUCATION TECHNOLOGY

Press Room South

CEDIA Smart Home Technology Conference

AVIXA TV Studio

Connected Classroom powered by Logitech

CC2 - Listening Suites

CEDIA Smart Home Technology Stage

CEDIA Booth: The Association for Smart Home Professionals.

CEDIA Distributors Lounge

Organiser's Office

CC3 - Rebooking Lounge

International Media Library

The Show Shoe presented by LODRESSO powered by Aluvision

CC4.1 - ISE Keynotes & ISE Content Programme

CC5 - ISE Content Programme

Catalonia Pavilion

Barcelona Turisme

Barcelona City Council

Outdoor Audio Demos

AVIXA Member Lounge / AVIXA Xchange LIVE

Innovation Park

Innovation Park - Pitching Stage & Networking

Live Events Stage

Spark

Press Room North

Audio Demo Rooms

Tech Tour Meeting Point

Powersoft launches AnyMATE and SpeakerMATE

Powersoft is set to unveil AnyMATE and its first implementation, SpeakerMATE, on booth #7F300 at ISE 2026, marking a significant step towards smarter, more connected installed audio systems. The new technologies are designed to add identification, monitoring and data exchange capabilities directly to passive loudspeakers, without the need for additional network cabling or external power. For years, the professional AV industry has focused system intelligence on active devices and IP-based infrastructure, while passive loudspeakers have largely remained disconnected endpoints. AnyMATE addresses this imbalance by enabling communication over existing speaker lines, allowing the amplifier to act as a communication hub for both audio and data.

AnyMATE is a communication technology based on a proprietary protocol and a patent-pending physical-layer implementation. Rather than relying on Ethernet or wireless connections, AnyMATE exchanges data directly via an amplifier’s output channels. This makes it possible to identify and monitor downstream devices without deploying a separate control network, aligning closely with the realities of installed audio environments that often feature long cable runs, Hi-Z architectures and legacy infrastructure. Developed within Powersoft’s R&D department over more than a decade, AnyMATE has been refined through extensive internal testing before being brought to market. Importantly for system designers and integrators, the technology is not limited to new installations. Where amplifiers have sufficient current-sensing and processing capability, AnyMATE can be introduced into existing systems by adding compatible downstream hardware, making it suitable for retrofit projects in sectors such as transport, retail and large venues.

SpeakerMATE represents the first practical application of the AnyMATE platform. The compact hardware module establishes communication between amplifiers and passive loudspeakers and can be deployed either as an external add-on near the speaker or integrated directly by loudspeaker manufacturers. For retrofit applications, SpeakerMATE connects in parallel with the speaker line via quick-splice connectors and requires no dedicated power supply, simplifying installation and minimising downtime. Once installed, SpeakerMATE devices are automatically discovered and configured through Powersoft’s Armonía+ software. Additional data can be written to the device in advance, including speaker brand and model information, enabling the system to suggest appropriate presets and helping to reduce configuration errors during commissioning.

Beyond identification, SpeakerMATE incorporates a temperature sensor, accelerometer and microphone, with the option to interface with an external sensor via a GPI port. These features enable new levels of monitoring and diagnostics for passive loudspeakers, including temperature and tilt measurement, on-demand sound

pressure level testing, and access to detailed metadata such as installation notes, serial numbers and lifecycle history. When integrated with cloud-based services such as MyPowersoft, accessed via MyUniverso, SpeakerMATE allows system status and anomalies to be monitored remotely. This capability supports faster fault-finding, preventative maintenance and reduced site visits, particularly valuable for large, distributed systems such as shopping centres, airports, stadiums, cinemas and theme parks.

Powersoft is introducing AnyMATE as a platform rather than a single product, with the potential for future expansion and licensing to third-party manufacturers. By embedding intelligence into existing infrastructure, AnyMATE and SpeakerMATE can transform passive loudspeakers from silent endpoints into active participants within the networked AV environment. Claudio Lastrucci, R&D director at Powersoft, comments: “These technologies demonstrate the importance we place on investing in research and development, constantly striving to raise the bar when it comes to innovation in the audio sector. Our passion lies in innovating outside of conventional norms, looking to how we can develop both products and platforms which deliver exceptional performance and seamless workflows. It’s exciting to see AnyMATE’s application in SpeakerMATE, and this is only the beginning for a technology which we are sure is going to make a huge impact.” To find out more about AnyMATE and SpeakerMATE and the wider Powersoft portfolio, visit the Powersoft team on booth #7F300 at ISE 2026.

Bang & Olufsen to preview new landscape speaker

Bang & Olufsen is pleased to offer an exclusive first look at its forthcoming landscape speaker at ISE 2026. The preview marks a bold expansion to the brand’s architectural audio portfolio and an important step in Bang & Olufsen’s strategy to extend beautiful sound seamlessly into outdoor living spaces.

“For more than a century, Bang & Olufsen has crafted products that elevate the home – shaping how design, technology and craftsmanship come together to create unforgettable experiences. Now, we extend that philosophy beyond the walls of the home as we preview our new vision for the future of architectural soundscapes in outdoor living,” says Nikolaj Wendelboe, Interim CEO of Bang & Olufsen. He continues: “Our preview at ISE is an invitation for custom integrators and design professionals to experience how our landscape speaker connects seamlessly with our portfolio of speakers and TVs – and how it integrates into the wider home. I am excited to show how Bang & Olufsen continues to shape a world where beautiful sound elevates every space you call home.”

The new landscape speaker is the first outdoor solution conceived, designed and crafted entirely by Bang & Olufsen. Crafted from enduring materials and designed to withstand the elements, the speaker delivers powerful, precise outdoor sound with the same signature quality people expect from a Bang & Olufsen speaker. It

also integrates seamlessly into Bang & Olufsen’s unified ecosystem, allowing listeners to move from room to room – and into outdoor spaces – with one coherent, continuous listening experience. For integrators, the new landscape speaker offers flexibility and design-first thinking – supporting collaboration with architects and landscape designers while maintaining the uncompromising performance from Bang & Olufsen. Through Bang & Olufsen Atelier, which is also showcased at ISE, finishes can be tailored to complement landscaped environments and architectural aesthetics.

Bang & Olufsen expects to launch its new landscape speaker by the end of 2026.

Meyer Sound presents its sound system portfolio

At ISE 2026, Meyer Sound will present a broad view of its sound system portfolio for installed, touring, and immersive environments, highlighting how its loudspeaker platforms fit into cohesive system workflows. At the Meyer Sound stand (Hall 3, Booth 3P900), attendees can preview TIGRA and 1800-LFC alongside PANTHER and the 2100-LFC, USW-121P, and select point source solutions including the ULTRA family and the MM-4XP miniature self-powered loudspeaker. An expanded Tech Bar will host demonstrations of Meyer Sound’s digital platforms, including the Nebra software platform and GEN-1 technology networking the ASTRYA screen channel loudspeaker and the USW-121P. The Galileo GALAXY network platform will be featured as part of the broader ecosystem. “ISE is where the full system story comes into focus,” Davies says. “From loudspeakers to networking, processing, and software, everything is designed within a common framework. That consistency gives designers confidence that systems will behave predictably as they scale across different environments.”

On January 1, 2026, Meyer Sound introduced an expanded eight-year warranty for all products purchased after that date, reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to reliability, sustainability, and customer support across its global customer base. “Our customers invest in systems that are expected to perform for decades,” McMahon says. “Extending our warranty reflects the confidence we have in our engineering - and the responsibility we feel to support these systems throughout their working life.”

AV Stumpfl to showcase PIXERA four GEN2 and new workflow tools

Austrian manufacturer AV Stumpfl will return to ISE with a major update to its PIXERA media server platform, headlined by the new PIXERA four GEN2 hardware and the forthcoming PIXERA 26.1 software release. The company will also present new configuration tools for both PIXERA servers and its range of projection screens, as well as a duo of new inline screen systems, on stand #3A500 Aligning with the ‘Push Beyond’ theme of ISE 2026, AV Stumpfl will unveil its most powerful media server solution to date in the shape of the new PIXERA four GEN2. The flagship of the PIXERA line-up, the GEN2 series is designed to offer significantly more processing headroom for demanding real-time graphics applications and XR/AR broadcast and virtual production set-ups. Alongside GEN2, the company will also introduce the PIXERA four GEN2 RS, a new media server platform optimised for rental/staging projects where ruggedness and reliability are paramount.

On the software front, AV Stumpfl will use ISE 2026 to showcase PIXERA 26.1, continuing its shift to a yearbased versioning convention introduced with PIXERA 25.x (2025). The change is tied to the company’s new Update Access Package (UAP) model, which provides customers with ongoing access to updates and bug fixes over a defined period. Existing PIXERA license holders can speak with AV Stumpfl staff on the stand about how the UAP model applies to their systems and how best to align future upgrades with their projects. Recognising the rapid adoption of IP video in broadcast, live events and installations, AV Stumpfl will also demonstrate PIXERA’s latest SMPTE ST 2110 capabilities at ISE 2026, including support for Rivermax-based workflows and compatibility with Matrix Video.

On the projection screen side of the business, meanwhile, AV Stumpfl is putting significant weight behind its screens configurator, which aims to simplify the process of specifying and ordering complex screen systems. The new configurator is designed to make it easy for integrators to define the parameters of the screen (e.g. screen type, size, surface, frame and accessories) and generate a clear parts list and pricing in a single environment, streamlining what has traditionally been a complex order process. At ISE 2026, the configurator will be demonstrated alongside new inline screen products, including the INLINE 125 DEK and INLINE 160 DEK models. These systems extend AV Stumpfl’s INLINE range of discreet, roll-up projection screens with additional size and installation options, giving designers more flexibility when integrating projection surfaces into corporate and architectural environments.

Alongside the screen configurator, the manufacturer will also present its PIXERA hardware configurator. This tool guides users through key decisions, including codec and resolution requirements, number and type of outputs, redundancy strategies and storage needs, and

suggests the appropriate server solution based on those requirements. While AV Stumpfl is known throughout the industry for its responsive technical support, the company emphasises that much of its effort now goes into making that support almost invisible in day-to-day operation, reflected by its investment into tools such as the new configurators, as well as existing guides such as the PIXERA help centre. The ISE 2026 line-up reflects its customer-first philosophy, aiming to reduce the situations where users need to pick up the phone in the first place. “Our goal with the new products and configurators is simple: we want our customers to spend their time on creative and technical decisions that move their projects forward, not on wrestling with product choices,” comments Rainer Brandstätter, head of marketing for AV Stumpfl. “Over the last few years we’ve invested heavily in tools, training and documentation so that, when someone comes to us with a specific challenge, we can respond quickly with solutions that we know will work in the real world.” He adds: “ISE has always been a place where we can have very concrete conversations about projects. With the new PIXERA models, updates to our software platform and our latest screen innovations, we’re in a stronger position than ever to support those conversations and we look forward to catching up with friends old and new in Barcelona.”

D-Tools to showcase game-changing advancements at ISE 2026

D-Tools will be demonstrating an array of major advancements at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2026. In Booth #2J500, the company will preview the upcoming release of its System Integrator (SI) version 24 (v24) and will showcase several new enhancements for its award-winning D-Tools Cloud web-based solution. Both platforms help commercial and residential integrators manage every aspect of their businesses — including sales, system design, project documentation, procurement, installation, and service management. Today, more than 8,000 companies in over 90 countries rely on D-Tools’ award-winning software to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and boost profitability. D-Tools offers the industry’s largest Product Library, featuring over 1,800 brands and more than 2 million products with integrator-level pricing. Over the past year, D-Tools has introduced exclusive pricing integrations with leading European distributors, including Habitech, Invision, Pulse Cinemas, Avoke, DbM, ADI-UK, Exertis, AWE, Northamber, Indigo, CAVD, Moss Technical and Ivory Egg. Additionally, Midwich will soon be onboard. Integrators can now create proposals and place orders in GBP (Pound Sterling).

The innovations in D-Tools SI v24 solidify this on-premises software solution as the worldwide leading core

business management software serving the systems integration market for the past 27 years. Officially launches in March 2026, the new productivity features include:

•Multi-user project editing – More than one user can now edit projects simultaneously in the Project Editor interface, improving collaboration and the speed at which projects are created.

•Re-ordering of items in Project Editor – Users can now rearrange items in the bill of materials to an order of their liking vs. displayed in the order in which they were added to the project. This new feature will make it easier for users to keep related items together to decrease changes of missing necessary products.

•Export of Gantt View to Microsoft Project – Users will be able to export a Gantt View created in SI to Microsoft Project. This will allow them to share a project plan with outside collaborators who do not have access to SI.

•Mobile Install App – The SI Mobile Install feature will be available as a native app for both iOS and Android, enabling use of the software in the field without an internet connection.

The most recent update to D-Tools Cloud includes several major enhancements:

•D-Tools AI — D-Tools AI in D-Tools Cloud is designed to be part of the daily workflow by allowing users to quickly generate scopes of work, manipulate quote structures, search using natural language, and apply financial logic such as margin adjustments - all in seconds. D-Tools AI empowers teams to work faster, with greater precision, and less manual effort.

•Interconnect Diagrams — The new Interconnects feature is an intelligent wiring connectivity tool built directly into D-Tools Cloud. It provides a dynamic, visual, and interactive environment for mapping how devices are wired across a project — by system, phase, or room. With full integration into your BOM and product catalogue, it ensures design intent flows clearly from sales through to installation.

•Native Mobile App — The new native mobile app for D-Tools Cloud, available for iOS and Android, enables project managers and technicians to manage schedules and tasks, inventory, job notes, sales opportunities, and clock in/out directly from their phones — even offline. With either Field User View or Office User View, teams can receive and push notifications and send SMS messages to customers.

BHV introduces pro AV market to SportsBox at ISE 2026

BHV has announced that it will highlight its new SportsBox remote vision mixer and picture processor at ISE in Booth #4H900 marking its official introduction into the Pro AV and systems integration environment. Renowned for the design and engineering proficiency found behind many of broadcast’s leading names, BHV is leveraging its expertise to bring its own-branded compact high-quality switcher to market. Developed for demanding conditions where failure is not an option, SportsBox delivers reliable performance from a small package. Measuring just 17 x 22 x 3cms, SportsBox is uniquely capable of simultaneously transporting all four video channels over a single baseband link - such as COFDM - providing a gallery preview of four cameras, ideal for remote operation. The unit offers full 4-channel 12G-SDI inputs supporting 4K/4:2:2 video and embedded audio enabling high-quality production in live setups including sport events, boardrooms, training spaces, venues and eSports arenas. “As Pro AV productions become more sophisticated, they need the tools that deliver broadcast-quality results without adding complexity,” says BHV CTO Bill Garrett. “SportsBox offers professional switching and processing, including PIP, in a compact, remote-ready unit weighing just a few hundred grams - easy to integrate and deploy across a wide range of applications.”

SportsBox is based on software-defined architecture that allows deployment customisation with a feature roadmap that includes HDR support and IP video transport. The launch of SportsBox marks the first in a series of branded products BHV is bringing to field production and OB applications. ISE attendees can see SportsBox in action at Booth 4H900.

Arkona showcases Esports applications at ISE

Arkona technologies GmbH will use ISE (Booth 5.K800) to demonstrate how its ultra-low-latency, software-defined media infrastructure is increasingly being adopted well beyond traditional broadcast, with esports and large-scale gaming production emerging as a key growth area. As live gaming events continue to converge broadcast-grade production values with IT-centric workflows, arkona’s FPGA-accelerated platforms offer the scale, flexibility and predictable, low-latency performance under load required to support some of the world’s most complex real-time productions.

At the show, visitors will have opportunity to discuss the wide-ranging implementations that Arkona, together with technology partner manifold, have carried out over 2025, across the field of broadcast, IT, enterprise and now, increasingly, esports. Last year they delivered a comprehensive solution for one of the world’s largest annual esports championships, an event that attracts global audiences and operates at an exceptional level of

production complexity. Using five FPGA-based COTS accelerator cards, the system powered a high-density HTML5 graphics generation and insertion workflow, handling more than 200 unique input sources and driving over 80 output monitor heads. This enabled production teams to maintain full situational awareness across a vast and fast-moving competitive environment, with consistent, frame-accurate performance throughout the event. In parallel, Arkona and manifold also supported another of the industry’s most prestigious annual competitive gaming tournaments, delivering a compact yet powerful multiviewer solution capable of generating ten live previews from a single COTS server accelerator. The deployment demonstrated how high-density monitoring and ultra-low latency processing can be achieved without the need for large, fixed hardware footprints - a critical factor in esports environments where agility and rapid redeployment are paramount.

At ISE, visitors will be able to explore these gaming-focused deployments alongside Arkona’s broader portfolio, including the BLADE//runner platform and manifold CLOUD. Together, they form a flexible, software-defined foundation for routing, processing and multiviewing across broadcast, ProAV, IT and gaming workflows, allowing organisations to scale from compact studio builds to globally distributed live productions using the same core technology. Commenting on the esports focus at ISE, Aleksei Shevchenko, CEO of manifold technologies GmbH, said: “These events represent the very

top tier of live gaming production, where scale, speed and reliability are non-negotiable. What makes these deployments stand out is not just the sheer number of sources and outputs involved, but the consistency and responsiveness the platform delivers under intense operational pressure”. He continued: “ISE is the ideal venue to show how arkona and manifold technologies are enabling esports producers to apply broadcast-grade precision within modern, IT-driven environments. The fact that our solutions are now trusted for some of the world’s most significant gaming events underlines how broadly applicable this technology has become - and how well it aligns with the future of live production across industries”.

Disguise to showcase the future of entertainment

Disguise will return to ISE 2026 to demonstrate how venues, brands, and artists can embrace the future of fan engagement with the most powerful immersive solutions in the industry. Located at Booth 4P500 in Hall 4, Disguise will invite visitors to step inside and experience firsthand how its end-to-end solution of software, hardware and services can drive deeper audience connection within live events, immersive spaces and stadium environments. Showcasing the power of the new GX 3+ media server, all the way through to their portable soft-

ware-only X1 and highlighting their new partnership with interactive LED flooring solution ASB GlassFloor, Disguise will be demonstrating how its flexible, scalable platform is perfectly suited to elevating visual experiences across shows, screens and surfaces of any size.

Key activations on the booth will include an immersive tunnel demonstrating the powerful possibilities of interactive visuals within immersive installations, featuring real-time content powered by the GX 3+ and projected onto surrounding surfaces. Combining audio-reactive scenes and IMAG-style visuals designed by Disguise’s Creative Services team, along with spatial audio from L-Acoustics, the experience encourages audiences to immerse themselves, interact with the dynamic content, and become part of the story. Disguise will also showcase its end-to-end sports and stadium offering via an interactive basketball experience, inviting visitors to take part in a hoop-shooting competition that utilises a bespoke workflow to integrate their approved data into personalised leaderboard content on-screen. Building on the recently announced partnership between Disguise and ASB GlassFloor, the activation will integrate a cutting-edge digital court from ASB GlassFloor to demonstrate the impact of multi-surface interactive visuals, along with daily takeover moments at 11am and 4.30pm showcasing ASB GlassFloor’s other applications.

In addition, visitors can discover a series of demo pods offering hands-on insight into Disguise’s latest software and workflows. These include previews of upcoming Designer enhancements, an exclusive look at new projection mapping tools, demonstrations of Disguise’s portable software-only solution, X1, and innovation-focused demos showing how APIs, plugins, and AI-driven tools such as Disguise’s AI workflow assistant, Ask AId3n, can improve flexibility and efficiency across complex projects. Supporting technology and solutions from Adder, Canon, QED Productions, ON LX, ROE Visual, COGS, the ISAAC® platform and SpectralBot will also be available to explore. Disguise will host audio-visual takeovers on the booth daily at 4.30pm, where attendees can enjoy a live DJ, a full 360° audio-reactive content takeover in the immersive tunnel, and be the first to hear exclusive updates from the company, including an introduction to new ambassador programme, Creators Circle, and the launch of Disguise’s new, annual magazine on Tuesday 3rd. On the evening of Wednesday 4th, visitors are invited to join Disguise at 8pm at El Bosc de Les Fades for the first After Dark community event of the year. “ISE’s PUSH BEYOND theme is perfectly aligned with the innovation Disguise is driving across live events, stadiums, and immersive experiences,” said Alexandra Coulson, VP of Marketing at Disguise. “Audiences now expect more than content on screens - they want experiences they can step into and interact with in real-time. At ISE 2026, we’re not just telling, but showing how Disguise helps entertainment venues embrace the future of fan engagement.”

Royce Lye:

20 years of building great teams!

After 30 years in the AV industry, Royce Lye, MD of BenQ UK & Ireland has witnessed plenty of change throughout his career. A large chunk of that has been seen in his time with BenQ, a journey that started almost 20 years ago.

Early days

When Lye joined Acer’s peripherals division as Marketing Manager for UK & Ireland in 2002, the company were looking to rebrand to build new channels that weren’t necessarily tied into its original parent, Acer Group. Lye was tasked with overseeing the rebrand to BenQ: “I knew the channel well and how to rebrand a company. We were an IT company then, not AV at all, and I had a background in IT. I thought I’d be spending a year, yearand-a-half tops, helping to rebrand from Acer to BenQ. Almost 25 years later, and I’m still here.”

After 7 years of nurturing and growing the BenQ brand, in 2009 Lye took over the UK projector business which sat at around 2 percent market share. After restructuring channel partnerships, recruiting more team members, and driving the PR message home, the product and brand awards started to flood in, and Lye stepped up to Sales & Marketing Director in 2011. In 2013, BenQ hit 10 percent market share, and by 2015, had achieved a record 17 percent.

The next big thing

During this period, Lye took a trip to the Far East in China and discovered a product that he thought

would totally change both the AV and education industries: “The big diversification for us in product was interactive flat panels. It was a product BenQ had started to manufacture, but we hadn’t yet looked at introducing it to the European market. We discussed when it might go into education and tied up a deal with a distributor.”

In 2013, BenQ’s interactive touchscreen products were launched in the UK and the UK quickly becaome the largest country for BenQ in interactive touch globally. Over the next 5 years, Lye rose to Executive Director UK & Ireland, and then to General Manager, overseeing a team that had now grown to contain 28 sales and marketing profes-

sionals. In 2014-2016, BenQ became the number three projector brand and doubled its market share in the first twelve months, and in 2016, the brand was number one for 1080p projection. Lye was also selected as the one of the AV Industry’s most influential 100 people in the 2017-2010 AV100 in recognition of his passion and commitment to the industry. In 2019, Lye became Managing Director for UK and Ireland, just one year before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

A

small hurdle

Like most other industries around the world, the

pandemic and subsequent lockdowns meant that BenQ faced uncertainty. Lockdowns meant that traditional in-person learning was no longer possible, which led to around half of the company’s education business disappearing overnight. The tried and tested stories and solutions were no longer applicable to the market and Lye quickly realised that the key to solving their issue was to diversify to cover more bases.

company also had a range of workplace technology solutions such as monitors that they were already selling into the market, and with the steep rise in remote work, the demand for these was higher than ever before. Lye and his team worked hard to transition into digital selling, and workplace solutions helped to plug the gap left by education.

It’s all about relationships

In recent years, Lye’s focus has been on developing the relationships with the company’s channel partners. Other companies may be content to have a simple, transactional relationship with their channel, but Lye has always strongly believed that this should never be the case: “It’s about designing, positioning and how you look after your channel. One thing we’ve added with the team here is to work with our channel partners whether they’re a reseller, distributor, we treat everyone closely.”

As a result, the relationship that his team have created with channel partners goes well beyond transactional and is a true partnership in every sense of the word. From pre-sales support and excellent after-care to regular training and events, BenQ UK has built a partnership that works to deliver results for both sides.

When asked about his plans for the future, continuing to develop the partnership with channel partners was near the top of his list, with a goal of moving the channel closer to the end user, while maintaining channel strategy. Another key focus is on developing a go-to-market strategy across all products - not restricted by traditional markets or strategies – to ensure stability and structure for the brand in years to come.

A team to be proud of

Looking back through his career and time at BenQ, it would be easy to think that Lye’s proudest accomplishment would be winning the AV News Outstanding Achievement in AV 2023, however: “My biggest achievement is my team. Seeing the team and individuals develop and grow within the company and the wider industry, and having the opportunity to help them on their way has been so rewarding. I’m proud to have such a fantastic, multi award-winning team, and we have some real talent that we’ll continue to nurture for years to come.”

ISE 2026: Key Speakers, Sessions and Timings to Watch in Barcelona

As ISE 2026 approaches, attention is once again shifting beyond the show floor to the people, ideas and conversationsshaping the AV industry. Taking place at Fira Barcelona Gran Via from 3–6 February, this year’s content programme reflects ISE’s continued evolution into a platform for thought leadership, creative insight and practical learning across AV, live events, broadcast and immersive experience design.

With headline keynotes, themed stages and specialist summits running throughout the week, careful planning will be essential for attendees looking to balance conference content with time on the exhibition floor.

Creative Keynote: Matt Clark (United Visual Artists)

Tuesday 3 February 15:30–16:15 CET

One of the standout sessions of ISE 2026 is the Creative Keynote from Matt Clark, founder of United Visual Artists (UVA). Clark’s work sits at the intersection of light, sound, code and architecture, with projects spanning live performance, permanent installations and large-scale immersive environments.

Taking place on the opening afternoon of the show, Clark’s keynote will explore the creative and technical thinking behind performance-led mapping and immersive storytelling, offering insight into how artistic vision and advanced AV technologies increasingly converge.

AI Reality Check Keynote: Sol Rashidi

Wednesday 4 February 15:00–15:45 CET

On Wednesday afternoon, Sol Rashidi takes the stage with “The AI Reality Check: What It Takes to Scale and the Future of Leadership”. The session will focus on the practical realities of deploying AI at scale, cutting through hype to address leadership, operational readiness and long-term impact.

With AI now firmly embedded in AV workflows — from content creation to analytics and automation — this keynote is expected to draw strong interest from across the industry.

Live Events Stage: Daily Programme

Tuesday 3 – Friday 6 February

Sessions running throughout show hours

• Tue–Thu: 10:00–18:00

• Fri: 10:00–16:00

The Live Events Stage once again forms a core part of ISE’s content offering, delivering a rolling programme of panels, case studies and technical discussions throughout the week.

Curated by Stew Hume, Managing Editor of Total Production International, the stage features contributions from leading figures in touring, lighting, video and large-scale production. Speakers include Stephan Saremba of MA Lighting International, alongside production and engineering specialists involved in major global tours and complex live installations.

Sessions are scheduled in blocks across the day, making the Live Events Stage an accessible drop-in option for attendees moving between halls.

Summits and Specialist Content Tracks

Tuesday 3 – Thursday 5 February

From 14:00 CET onwards

ISE 2026 also features a series of longer-form conference sessions and summits, including the Broadcast AV Summit, Control Rooms Summit and Congreso AVIXA sessions.

Future Talent and Career Development

Friday 6 February

The final day of ISE includes a focus on career development and emerging talent, with sessions scheduled across Friday morning and early afternoon. These discussions highlight training pathways, skills development and long-term workforce sustainability, reflecting the industry’s growing emphasis on nurturing future AV professionals.