AV News MARCH 2025 1-52 by AV News

Kinly report tackles “the UK productivity slump”

British businesses are fighting back against the UK’s productivity slump, with nearly half (41%) prioritising employee productivity in 2025, compared to a third of enterprises in Europe (36%) according to new data from Kinly.

The new ‘Trusted Connections 2025’ research report, which surveyed 425 enterprise AV professionals working in the UK, Germany, Nordics, and the Netherlands, highlights an urgent need for UK businesses to modernise their technology and support employee wellbeing to overcome the productivity slump. Despite ambitions to improve productivity, UK businesses are struggling with systemic challenges, including outdated technology and budget constraints.

Less than a third (31%) of UK organisations are investing in replacing legacy technology, falling behind other European counterparts such as Germany (36%) and the Netherlands (44%). This comes at a time when outdated AV technology is increasingly damaging productivity in remote work, with 62% of UK respondents citing it as a challenge – up from 60% in 2024.

Budget cuts are also intensifying the problem. More than half (55%) of UK enterprises surveyed said they’re operating with reduced funding in 2025, significantly higher than Germany, where only a third (31%) of respondents cited budget constraints as a challenge. Beyond technology, a lack of focus on employee wellbeing is further compounding the UK’s productivity crisis. Just a quarter (26%) of UK businesses are prioritising employee wellbeing, falling behind the overall average of 29%, and significantly lower than countries like the Nordics (38%). This is despite evidence that happier, healthier employees are more engaged and productive.

Commenting on these findings, Tom Martin, CEO of Kinly said, “The UK’s productivity crisis is no longer just a business problem – it’s a national economic emergency. While other major economies have recovered from post-pandemic workforce shrinkage, Britain is still struggling. Businesses are trying to boost productivity,

Tom Martin, CEO of Kinly: “The UK’s productivity crisis is no longer just a business problem – it’s a national economic emergency.

but many are failing to address the root causes: outdated technology, budget constraints, and a lack of focus on employee wellbeing.”

“The companies that invest in both modern technology and workplace wellbeing will be the ones that thrive in this new economy. Productivity isn’t just about working harder – it’s about working smarter, and right now, too many UK businesses are missing that oppor-

PMA Research: Top-selling projectors in January 2025

PMA Research has posted highlights from their most recent Projector Tracking Service results to the “Top-Selling Projectors” area of their website. For more than 30 years now, PMA Research has collected monthly sell-through data from leading U.S. projector dealers, retailers, web resellers and distributors. Each month, PMA Research posts their “Top 5” Projector Lists for the following categories:

Pico and Personal Projectors: This “Top 5″ list is compiled from PMA’s monthly Retail Projector Tracking Service panel, which is made up of U.S. retailers, web resellers, and custom installers. For Pico and personal

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projectors, LG had the month’s best-selling model, followed by Samsung. TCL made its first appearance on a PMA “Top 5” list and was followed by GPX and ViewSonic to round out January’s top sellers. The top five models from January in this segment were:

•LG HU710PB CineBeam Q

•Samsung Freestyle Gen

•TCL A1 Smart Projector

•GPX PJ609B

•ViewSonic M1X

B2B Laser Projectors (Normal/Semi-Throw) with 5,000 and Higher Lumens: This “Top 5″ list is compiled from PMA’s monthly Pro AV Projector Tracking Service panel, which is made up of Pro AV dealers and systems integrators. In the +5000-lumen, B2B laser-phosphor projector segment, Epson had a trio of best-selling models in January, while Sony had two top models to complete the “Top 5” list for this segment. The top five models from January in this segment were:

•Epson PowerLite L635SU

•Sony VPL-FHZ85

•Epson PowerLite L630U

•Sony VPL-FHZ80

•Epson EB-PU1008

The Installation Projectors with Interchangeable Lenses category “Top 5″ list is compiled from PMA’s monthly Distributor Projector Tracking Service panel, which is made up of IT, Pro AV, and CEDIA distributors. For the installation/interchangeable lens projector segment, Epson had a trio of best-selling models in January and Panasonic rounded out this segment with two models

on the “Top 5” list for the Interchangeable Lens segment.

Here are the top five models from January in this segment:

•Epson EB-PU1008

•Epson EB-PU1007

•Panasonic PT-MZ782

•Panasonic PT-MZ882

•Epson EB-PU2010

Powersoft Acquires 51% v K Array share capital

Powersoft S.p.A. has announced the signing of a binding investment agreement to acquire from H.P. Sound Equipment S.p.A. 51% of the share capital of K-Array S.r.l. The K-Array is specialized in the design and manufacture of innovative high-performance, compact design audio systems for a wide range of applications. The Agreement also envisages the mutual granting of call and put options in favour of Powersoft and HP Sound, respectively, on the remaining 49% of K-Array’s share capital. The closing of the transaction is, to date, expected by March 2025.

Luca Lastrucci, CEO of Powersoft: “This transaction arises from a successful partnership between two companies that have been collaborating for many years now, with a strong territorial proximity and sharing a creative and innovative spirit, both convinced of the potential to create important product and technological synergies. We plan to enrich our portfolio with cutting-edge products, leveraging the expertise and resources of

K-Array to develop new integrated audio solutions for an ever-evolving market. The synergy between Powersoft and K-Array is set to generate significant results in technological innovation, allowing us to strengthen our presence in the segments where we already operate while also expanding into new areas”.

Alessandro Tatini, Chairman and CEO of K-Array: “Massimo Ferrati (CEO and co-founder) and I decided on this strategic step to integrate our company into a solid and constantly growing group like Powersoft. Our intention is to empower our resources, now over 100 and among the most qualified on the market, for a promising future filled with opportunities and success. In addition to growth in numbers, the goal is to strengthen a solid and cohesive foundation capable of tackling future challenges with greater resilience and determination. Our team has been integral to our growth journey, and we believe it is our responsibility to provide them with an even more ambitious vision for our project. We have been collaborating with Powersoft since the beginning, and beyond being neighbours and sharing an

identity deeply rooted locally yet globally oriented, we are united by a strong passion for technology and sound. Their innovations have always been an essential part of our work, making it obvious to realize that joining forces could add significant value to the growth that, in recent years, has been in double digits, bringing us immense satisfaction. We are confident that this partnership will allow us to achieve incredible results in synergy. We are excited and eager to unleash our full creativity and potential”.

K-Array, founded in 2005 and headquartered in Scarperia e San Piero (Florence), is active in the design and manufacture of innovative high-performance, compact design audio systems for a wide range of applications. The Company, with over 100 highly qualified resources, operates primarily through 3 brands targeting different market segments: (i) K-Array, the Company’s main brand focused on audio professionals, (ii) K-Gear, dedicated to traditional and more affordable audio solutions, and (iii) K-Scape, specializing in high-quality audio and lighting systems that combine sound and lighting excellence with sophisticated design.

K-Array offers a comprehensive portfolio of innovative, ultra-compact, high-performance audio and speaker systems for small, medium, and large applications, including touring, events, installations, transportation, and broadcast. Specifically, it manufactures and installs integrated solutions that include acoustic speakers, am-

plifiers, lighting, and accessory products such as microphones and earphones. K-Array’s share capital is currently 100% owned by HP Sound, in turn owned by K-Array’s founders and management, specifically 53.7% by Gioia S.r.l. and 28.3% by Massimo Ferrati.

K-Array’s revenue at December 31, 2023 amounted to approximately Euro 19.0 million, with a reported EBITDA of approximately Euro 3.7 million. Based on the preliminary results as of December 31, 2024, K-Array expects revenue of approximately Euro 22.1 million (up more than 16% versus the prior year) and EBITDA of approximately Euro 6.6 million (+76%). The net financial position as of December 31, 2024 is impacted by the transfer to K-Array (made under the Transaction) of intellectual property rights and certain HR and Accounting employees from HP Sound.

The K-Array Acquisition Transaction is fully aligned with Powersoft Group’s strategic development plan, which aims to strengthen its presence in the pro-Audio sector through both organic growth and acquisitions, as outlined since the IPO. It also represents the logical development of a long-established “supplier-customer” partnership between two companies that share common values: technological innovation, excellence, creativity, design, customer focus, and product quality. The goal is to leverage their complementary strengths, boosting competitiveness and fostering growth, while preserving their distinct identities and operational autonomy within a shared growth plan. Currently, Powersoft is set to continue its mission as a global technology provider, while K-Array will maintain its unique positioning in the high-end audio speaker industry.

The acquisition is also part of Powersoft’s growth strategy to transform the Group from a product company to a solution provider, with a primary focus on the transportation and automotive sectors, where technological innovation, efficiency, and the reliability of audio systems play a key role. Mention should be made in this

regard of the recent technology partnership signed with Ferrari S.p.A., which marked Powersoft’s entry into the supercar industry, establishing a remarkable reference in the automotive sector.

By combining its know-how in amplification systems, signal processing, and transducers with K-Array’s expertise in compact, high-performance loudspeaker engineering and design, Powersoft will be able to accelerate its expansion in these markets and strengthen its position by offering innovative, efficient, and uniquely designed audio systems. These systems will meet the growing demands for quality, reliability, and space optimization required by the automotive industry and modern transportation systems. The combination will also open up new joint business opportunities and allow for the expansion of business offerings into new market segments within the Powersoft portfolio. The combined presence of the two companies through their distribution networks will also drive greater penetration in highgrowth markets such as Asia and Latin America, further consolidating the Group’s global positioning.

This transaction creates a leading group in the professional audio industry on an international scale, leveraging a wide range of products, technological expertise, and the innovative approach of two highly complementary companies. The combination of the two companies is expected to drive a potential increase in volume, with positive impacts on margins, while maintaining strong financial health and cash flow. The combination will also enable the prioritisation of revenue synergies through enhanced product diversification, expanded target markets, and greater geographical reach. Additionally, the collaboration between the R&D teams of both companies will accelerate the development of next-generation audio systems, in line with the latest market trends, especially for new transducer applications.

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Reimagining global Pro AV distribution with Wesco Anixter’s Service-Forward approach

Phil Langley, Senior Vice President of Global Enterprise AV and UCC at Wesco Anixter, has been a driving force in transforming the pro AV industry for over 30 years. His journey, from substation control systems to leading global AV distribution, reflects a unique blend of deep technical expertise, strategic foresight, and a relentless commitment to innovation. Under his leadership, Wesco Anixter is revolutionising the traditional role of AV distribution— shifting beyond transactional product sales to a service-first model that prioritises integrator success. By offering comprehensive, outcome-driven solutions, Wesco Anixter empowers integrators and end-users to work smarter, reduce complexity, and accelerate project delivery, ultimately driving greater efficiency and profitability across the industry.

Early career and entry into Pro AV

Langley’s professional journey began at a major power distribution company. This early technical foundation gave him a deep understanding of complex systems and control mechanisms. In the mid-1990s, he took on a project management role for a UK-based Pro AV systems integrator on a high-profile hotel project in Barcelona, marking a pivotal step in his career. Tasked with integrating AV solutions into hotel public areas and premium rooms, Langley became immersed in the industry, developing a deep understanding of AV control systems and their potential.

From there, his career expanded across continents and industries. Over the years, he held key positions with renowned pro AV manufacturers such as Bose, AMX, and Harman and roles in ICT distribution and global telecommunications. One of his most notable achievements came in 1999 when he played a pivotal role in designing and integrating the first-ever videowall at London’s iconic Piccadilly Circus. This groundbreaking installation, featuring 36 Barco 3000 series LCD projectors and Stewart Filmscreen rear-projection screens, delivered 13 simultaneous streams of digital video—an extraordinary technological feat at the time. The project garnered international media attention, including a feature on the BBC’s Towards 2000, and set a new standard for large-scale digital displays.

Leading Wesco Anixter and reimagining Pro AV distribution

With his keen understanding of the market’s shifting dynamics, Langley has recognised that AV is no longer just about traditional displays and audio systems—it’s now deeply embedded in data-driven, IT-centric environments. For instance, the democratisation of command-and-control technologies has allowed these

once-exclusive solutions to expand beyond emergency operations centres into corporate offices, data centres and security hubs. Similarly, connectivity and engagement technologies are reshaping the spectator experience in the broadcast industry—driving demand for high-bandwidth AV infrastructure.

While traditional distributors focus primarily on moving products from manufacturers to integrators, Wesco Anixter takes a fundamentally different approach, prioritising service, efficiency and integrator success. Instead of following the traditional distributor playbook, Langley and his team have created a model that simplifies complexity, accelerates deployment and maximises integrator profitability.

By evolving beyond conventional distribution, Wesco Anixter offers a complete range of supply chain and integration services that alleviate integrators’ key pain points. It supports partners with key services, including pre-configuration, kitting, back-of-house testing and just-in-time delivery, ensuring that equipment arrives fully prepared for seamless deployment.

This approach enables integrators to focus on what they do best-delivering high-value solutions to end customers - without getting bogged down by logistical challenges. By handling critical but time-consuming backend tasks, Wesco Anixter effectively extends the integrator’s capabilities, acting as a true partner rather than a middleman.

Beyond logistics, Wesco Anixter’s financial approach

is another game-changer. The company maintains manufacturer invoices on its balance sheet until hardware delivery to either the integrator or end user location, significantly reducing the financial strain on integrators. Additionally, they handle pre-provisioned scrap returns to manufacturers, further optimising efficiency and minimising waste.

This reimagined approach to AV distribution is not just about meeting current market demands—it’s about shaping the industry’s future.

Why Wesco Anixter’s Service-First model is different

The pro AV industry is rapidly evolving, and so are the needs of integrators and end-users. Recognising this shift, Langley has championed a service-forward approach prioritising long-term business outcomes over one-off product sales.

Wesco Anixter redefines what distribution means in the modern era with a service-forward approach that is built around several key differentiators:

1. Full-Service Integration Support: From pre-installation services to DOA testing and turnkey logistics, they remove the barriers that slow down deployments.

2. Flexible Financial Models: Through options like OpEx, CapEx, hybrid and working capital enhancement solutions, Wesco Anixter helps integrators align with their business growth goals, reducing capital strain and improving cash flow.

3. Comprehensive Supply Chain Management: By leveraging its global logistics network, Wesco Anixter ensures that integrators can access the right products at the right time - whether through just-in-time inventory solutions or large-scale procurement support.

4. Industry Expertise in High-Growth Sectors: Langley has established Wesco Anixter as a leader in emerging AV verticals, including command-and-control centres, hybrid workplace solutions and large-scale sports and entertainment venues.

This holistic approach to pro AV distribution challenges the industry norm and redefines what integrators should expect from their partners. It’s not just about shipping boxes - it’s about delivering seamless, scalable, and profitable AV solutions.

Barco full year for 2024

“strong cash generation in a challenging year” Barco has announced results for the six- and twelve-month periods ended 31 December 2024. There were significant regional differences. The Americas posted single digit growth, mainly driven by healthcare. EMEA experienced very weak market conditions resulting in double digit declines for all divisions. APAC saw a single digit decline, although within this region China did resume growth after a decline in 2023. While a significant contrast can be noted between the regions. Sales in the Americas grew in all three divisions, most prominently in Healthcare and Entertainment, where Cinema delivered strong growth in the fourth quarter. EMEA suffered from weak macro-economic conditions, with double-digit declines in all divisions. APAC posted a moderate decline, strongest for Enterprise, where Control Rooms withdrew from several markets as part of its restructuring.

Book-to-bill remained above 1, resulting in an all-time high orderbook of 563.7 million euro at the end of December 2024, versus 494.8 million euro a year earlier, with an important step-up for Entertainment year-overyear. Healthcare was the most resilient with a rebound in the second half for Entertainment. Enterprise absorbed channel inventory resets. Healthcare’s topline was the most resilient of the divisions, with orders up 7% and sales down 4% year-over-year. Orders were up significantly in the second half, driven by a strong performance in the Americas region.

Diagnostic Imaging benefited from successful new product launches starting mid-year, notably the OneLook mammography display and the radiology home-reading portfolio. Surgical and Modality recorded a significant increase in orders in the second semester in the Americas, after customer inventory levels reset. The product mix shifted towards more software enabled products. Enterprise declined 18% in orders and 16% in sales. Meeting Experience faced tough market conditions and increased competition in the EMEA corporate market. Moreover, the topline was impacted by inventory reductions at channel partners. Control Rooms continued to execute its new strategy, focusing future development on the CTRL software offerings.

Despite activity being discontinued in several APAC

countries, sales for Control Rooms were flat, and included growth in the Americas. Entertainment had orders and sales of -7% and -9% respectively versus 2023. Cinema was challenged by the aftermath of the Hollywood writers’ strikes in the first semester but saw gradual recovery from mid-year onwards, driven by the Americas. This led to full year sales, very close to last year. In tough market conditions, Immersive Experience managed to secure a similar order intake as last year. Sales ended below last year, as shipments of some of the new products are shifting into the new year.

The gross profit margin was 40.7% versus 41.8% in 2023. New products and a shift of the product mix towards more (embedded) software supported margins across the divisions, most prominently in healthcare which saw a significant improvement in its gross profit margin. In Enterprise the gross profit margin declined on lower volumes as a result of customer inventory corrections and in Entertainment the gross margin declined in Immersive Experience on unfavourable product mix and lower volume. The EBITDA margin was 12.8% for the full year, versus 13.6% in 2023.

Lower sales led to operating deleverage, especially in the first semester. In the face of lower topline and continued global inflation, Barco executed focused cost control, resulting in a 5% reduction of operating expenses versus last year. R&D investments were maintained in support of the many new product introductions. The EBITDA margin significantly improved in the second semester, to 16.7%, compared to 8.1% in the first half, resulting from higher volumes, a more favourable product mix and the benefits of the sale-lease back of a facility in the Americas. Free cash flow for 2024 grew substantially to 110.3 million euro versus 38.0 million euro for 2023, largely driven by lower net working capital, landing at 11.8% of sales at year-end. The main contributors were lower inventories and higher prepayments from customers. Furthermore, capital expenditure decreased year-over-year, after completing the new factories in China. As an additional upside, there were proceeds from the sale-lease back of a building in the Americas.

CEO An Steegen commented: “2024 presented us with several headwinds from a top-line perspective, al-

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though we saw an important contrast between the Americas, which posted growth in all three divisions, and EMEA and APAC which contended with soft market conditions. The first semester was marked by customer inventory resets in Healthcare and Meeting Experience, and a soft Cinema market. We were pleased to see the situation improve in the second half, also thanks to the many new product introductions. We reached important strategic milestones this year with the opening of a new manufacturing plant in Wuxi, China, and with the launch of many new innovative products. Throughout the year, we maintained focused cost control, and we generated a strong free cash flow. I’d like to express my gratitude to all our teams for the progress we made. Together we are committed to keeping our focus on innovation and growth in the next year. We start 2025 in a context of normalized channel inventory levels, and with the positive perspective of the full-year impact of last year’s new product introductions, the benefits of our ongoing transformation towards more software, and the efficiencies from further investments in automation and focused factories.”

Highlights of Barco’s fiscal year 2024

Orders of € 990.6 million (-7% y-o-y)

Sales of € 946.6 million (-10% y-o-)

Growth in the Americas versus a decline in EMEA and APAC

Book-to-bill > 1 (leading to an all-time high order book of € 563.7 million)

Gross profit margin at 40.7%, 1.1 ppts below 2023

EBITDA of € 120.8 million

Strong free cash flow of € 110.3 million versus € 38.0 million in 2023

Net Earnings of € 63.0 million (versus € 80.2 million in 2023)

Launch of more than 10 new products in the course of the year

Opening of a new factory for Entertainment in Wuxi, China, in May 2024

Proposal to increase the gross dividend to € 0.51 per share (versus € 0.48 last year)

Initiation of a share buyback program

StratosMedia collaborates Sony for enhanced digital signage

StratosMedia has announced a new application integrated with AITRIOS an edge AI sensing platform provided by Sony Semiconductor Solutions as well as its suite of Sony’s BRAVIA Professional Displays, to deliver Vision AI applications in a complete digital signage ecosystem. AITRIOS provides the world’s first intelligent vision sensor IMX500 with AI processing capability and AI management software on a single platform, empowering teams of all skill levels to build, deploy and manage vision AI retail applications such as Gaze Detection and People Counting. AITRIOS has a wide range of use cases and provides powerful analytics and processes

for many industries including retail, manufacturing, smart city and logistics.

The StratosMedia platform provides a wide range of services including rich analytics, detailed reports, triggered responses, digital signage and device management. The collaboration with Sony offers unequalled digital signage solutions which fully utilise vision AI technology and the following key features:

•GDPR Compliant

•Fast, Accurate edge AI computing

•Sony’s Bravia SOC compatible

Brian Hammett, chairman of StratosMedia said: “The integration of AITRIOS into our Retail offering is an exciting step into what the future that Edge AI computing can offer. Complement this with what I believe to be the best commercial monitor, Sony’s Bravia Pro utilizing the onboard SOC and you have a unique and compelling solution for our customers.”

“With Sony’s BRAVIA Professional Displays and AITRIOS platform providing groundbreaking IMX500, an intelligent vision sensor, we empower teams to harness the future of retail through advanced features,” commented Yoichiro Hotta, Head of Pan-European Marketing for Professional Displays & Solutions, Sony Europe. “This collaboration with StratosMedia not only enhances the platform’s analytics and digital signage capabilities but also sets a new standard for edge AI sensing solutions, delivering unique and compelling experiences for our customers. Additionally, the attribute-based analysis via the StratosMedia platform will enable us to optimize promotional content, ultimately improving conversion rates and sales in retail stores.”

Northamber PLC acquires Epatra Ltd

Northamber PLC has announced the acquisition of Epatra Ltd., a professional AV Distributor based in Netherlands. This strategic move further strengthens Northamber’s position in the audio-visual market and enhances its portfolio of offerings to customers in Europe. Founded in 1980, Northamber PLC has a long-standing reputation for delivering innovative AV & IT solutions and exceptional service to businesses across the UK.

The acquisition of Epatra Ltd. marks a significant milestone in Northamber’s growth strategy into Europe, enabling the company to provide a broader range of audio visual & professional audio-visual solutions to its customers in Europe. Commenting on the acquisition, Alex Phillips, chairman of Northamber PLC, stated “We are delighted to welcome Epatra into the Northamber group. There is a strong synergy in strategic focus with existing Northamber business and we look forward to working together with the Epatra team to drive strategic value for all. We are excited to continue to invest in driving profitable growth and broadening our customer base into international markets. The Board believes that there remain significant opportunity for further suitable acquisitions in the sector, which should generate additional value for Northamber’s shareholders in the medium term.”

Epatra Ltd., established in 2003, has built a strong reputation for delivering audio visual and professional

audio-visual solutions to businesses of all sizes. With an impressive portfolio of AV and Pro AV brands, a sophisticated customer portal and multiple offices based in the Netherlands and Belgium, Epatra has become a trusted partner for over 1000 organisations looking to optimize their audio-visual infrastructure. Arjan Dekker, Director of Epatra Benelux, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, saying, “We are proud and excited to announce that Epatra Nederland is now part of the Northamber Group. This strategic step strengthens our position in the BeNeLux market and opens the door to new growth opportunities, both nationally and internationally. Together with Northamber, we are joining forces to serve our customers and partners even better. Through targeted investments and synergies, we continue to innovate, strengthen our market position, and drive sustainable growth. This collaboration marks a new chapter in which we remain committed to delivering high-quality audiovisual solutions and exceptional service. We look forward to a future filled with innovation, growth and new opportunities.”

Alex Phillips, chairman of Northamber PLC: “We are delighted to welcome Epatra into the Northamber group. There is a strong synergy in strategic focus with existing Northamber business and we look forward to working together with the Epatra team to drive strategic value for all.”

Ashton Bentley display mounts certified for Cisco

Ashton Bentley, acquired by Kramer, has announced that its range of display mounts has received verified certification for use with select Cisco Collaboration devices. Ashton Bentley’s display mounts, designed for single and dual displays ranging from 43” to 105”, are

now fully compatible with Cisco’s Room Bar, Room Bar Pro, Room Kit Pro, and Room Kit EQ/Quadcam. This compatibility enables users to experience a streamlined and efficient setup for their collaboration needs, enhancing productivity and ease of use.

The integration of Ashton Bentley Display Mounts with its advanced meeting room technology and Collaboration Meeting Room Tables provides organizations with a complete and cohesive meeting room solution. From intuitive installation to superior functionality, Ashton Bentley’s offerings are designed to simplify and optimize meeting spaces for every business. “Our collaboration with Cisco represents a pivotal step in advancing meeting room technology,” said Roger McArdell Chief Technology Director Ashton Bentley. “This certification underscores our dedication to creating solutions that seamlessly integrate with industry-leading technologies, ensuring the best possible user experience.”

“Ashton Bentley is a new certified ecosystem partner for display mounts. Ashton Bentley’s room solution will offer Cisco’s Collaboration Device customers wider choice of installation in an elegant and clean design”, said Arnaud Caigniet, Head of Partnerships at Cisco Collaboration Devices. This partnership with Cisco reinforces Ashton Bentley’s position as a trusted provider of cutting-edge solutions in the Unified Communications and Collaboration (UCC) space. Ashton Bentley remains committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering enhanced value to its customers worldwide.

Ashton Bentley, acquired by Kramer

Hasr received verified certification for use with select Cisco Collaboration devices. Ashton Bentley’s display mounts, designed for single and dual displays ranging from 43” to 105”, are now fully compatible with Cisco’s Room Bar, Room Bar Pro, Room Kit Pro, and Room Kit EQ/Quadcam. This compatibility enables users to experience a streamlined and efficient setup for their collaboration needs, enhancing productivity and ease of use.

forces Ashton Bentley’s position as a trusted provider of cutting-edge solutions in the Unified Communications and Collaboration (UCC) space. Ashton Bentley remains committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering enhanced value to its customers worldwide.

publitec becomes official distributor for Barco solutions

Barco has announced the appointment of publitec as a new official distributor for its advanced image processing and projection solutions in Germany. This strategic partnership, effective immediately, aims to enhance the availability and support of Barco’s cutting-edge products in key markets. Publitec will now offer a comprehensive range of Barco products, including its high-performance projectors and image processing systems. This partnership marks a significant milestone for both companies, as it combines Barco’s innovative technology with publitec’s market reach and expertise.

While publitec will start to sell all the Barco products, that specifically fit the event sector, its partner company, NicLen, a dry hire provider for event technology, already recently purchased twenty units of the QDX-4K45 projectors, highlighting the immediate demand in the DACH region. “We are honoured to partner with Barco and bring their premier visualization technology to our clients,” stated Ulf Krynojewski, Head of Sales at publitec. “With a longstanding reputation for innovation and reliability, Barco’s products are synonymous with quality! And we are confident that this collaboration will enhance our ability to provide state-of-the-art solutions for a wide range of applications in the event sector.”

“We are delighted to welcome publitec as our new distributor in the DACH region,” remarked Wouter Bonte, Vice President Sales at Barco. “Their know-how and market presence make them an ideal partner to expand our reach in the region. We look forward to a successful collaboration that will bring our advanced solutions to new heights.”

Applause expands expertise and testing for Webex

Applause has announced the expansion of its partnership with Webex by Cisco, a leading provider of collaboration technologies powering employee and customer experiences, to enhance experiences for all users, including people with disabilities (PWD). As part of the expanded accessibility testing and training contract,

Applause will provide ongoing conformance assessments to additional products within the Webex Suite to align with evolving accessibility standards. Applause’s end-to-end approach to digital accessibility enables insights earlier in product development to support Cisco’s goals of inclusivity and innovation.

With inclusive design and user experience expertise, plus access to the world’s largest community of independent testers, Applause has helped Cisco achieve consistent conformance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) standards for eight Webex products to date. The program has also tripled the number of Cisco Accessibility Champions who ensure inclusivity is baked into the overall product development process, thereby increasing developer velocity with over a thousand fewer bugs to remediate.

“At Webex, we focus on people and improving their collaboration experiences. This focus fuels our innovation to remove the barriers of geography, language, personality and familiarity with technology,” said Travis Isaacs, Chief Design Officer at Webex by Cisco. “Building on our mutual vision to enhance employee experiences, Cisco and Applause are expanding our partnership to encourage equitable collaboration for all.”

Webex is a leading provider of cloud-based collaboration solutions offering a variety of programs, devices and app integrations, supporting everything from oneon-one calls to large-scale webinars and events. Applause empowers Webex design and engineering resources to more easily include PWD in design, testing and research while avoiding staffing costs. With an endto-end approach to digital accessibility, Applause frees up internal resources while helping the team account for digital accessibility throughout development – from planning and design through building, testing and release.

One of the key benefits of testing with an independent community as large as Applause’s is the range of diverse, global perspectives with access to numerous devices, operating systems and platform configurations to reflect Cisco’s broad user base. Applause can recruit testers with permanent disabilities, such as blindness, deafness or mobility or cognitive differences, as well as temporary disabilities from injury or illness and degenerative conditions.

Applause has announced the expansion of its partnership with Webex by Cisco.

ISE 2025: on the cusp of a paradigm shift?

Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2025 has wrapped up a highly successful week in Barcelona, celebrating yet another milestone in the event’s history. This year’s show was richer than ever in innovation, industry advancements and groundbreaking technologies, reinforcing its position as the premier event for the AV and systems integration industry. The exhibition showcased its highest number of exhibitors with 1,605 and the largest show floor space with 92,000 sqm net and welcomed a 85,351 unique verified visitors from 168 countries- a 15.5% increase from the previous year. But was ISE 2025 more of the ‘same old’ or did the show auger a genuine paradigm shift?

In the course of ISE history, each edition carries with it the promise of something ‘genuinely new’. Not just a larger, quicker or cheaper version of a predecessor, but rather a technological innovation that really moves the game on. In 2025, the leading contender for a paradigm shifting technology was undoubtedly Artificial Intelligence, and its presence could be felt throughout the show. Perhaps the most obvious application has been in the workplace, but AI in education, health and entertainment is not far behind.

Given its background in the pandemic, in which workers, based at home or the office, suddenly became dependent on unfamiliar collaborative technologies, there is a clear role for AI in improving both worker performance and productivity. AI has the potential to add new capabilities to a worker’s skillset, making both more efficient and productive. Developers and manufacturers have not been slow to identify the opportunity here.

As one of the leaders in collaboration Barco, for example, introduced SmartFocus, its latest AI-powered feature that improves hybrid meeting experiences. SmartFocus uses the laptop cameras present in the meeting room to bridge the distance between remote and inroom participants. Depending on room interactions, SmartFocus applies smart switching between the room camera and the participants’ laptops and brings automatic audio optimisation. SmartFocus is the newest innovation within Smart Meeting Flows, a set of smart, intent-based features for meeting participants. ClickShare expands its value to remote user experiences with the new AI-powered fea-

ture that ensures everyone feels equally involved in hybrid meetings. By benefiting from the presence of laptop cameras in the room, remote participants get a clear and relevant view of the room dynamics, without bringing extra hardware into the meeting space.

ClickShare smartly selects the most appropriate view for remote participants by switching between the room camera and the speakers´ laptop cameras. Based on the flow of the conversation, remote users experience a seamless transition, from a broad room view to a focused view of the on-site participants. This allows remote attendees to capture every detail of the room dynamics, including facial expressions and body language.

Furthermore, ClickShare leverages any room peripherals to deliver superior audio quality, ensuring remote participants enjoy clear sound without relying on a single laptop or manual adjustments. This audio optimisation also ensures the video conferencing platform highlights the active speakers, making it easy to identify them, while the meeting recap is accurate for seamless follow-up. “Since its launch, ClickShare has set a new standard for an excellent user experience and meeting equity in the meeting room,” said Oliver Van Camp, Product Director (Meeting Experience) at Barco. “With SmartFocus, we now expand ClickShare’s unique experiences to remote participants in hybrid meetings. Our continuous drive for innovation explores new possibilities that AI-features like SmartFocus can bring into BYOD spaces.”

Workplace transformation

As one of the principal architects of the AI transformation, Cisco has promised to “future proof the workspace” and to “reimagine the employee experience”. Holding its AI Smart Workplace Summit under the aus-

pices of ISE 2025, Cisco said that it had been rethinking its own approach to workspace design, helping customers transform their workspaces. The developer claims to have: reimagined the employee experience; simplified collaboration spaces with intelligent cameras and, microphones; to have embraced AI-powered software to enable more equitable meetings; to make the workplace more sustainable with circular product design approach; and to have streamlined workspace management with rich data and analytics. Delegates were invited to discover Cisco Workspace designer – a new tool to help them accelerate their own workplace transformation.

In furtherance of this programme, it was shortly after ISE that Cisco announced plans for an expanded partnership with NVIDIA to provide AI technology solutions to enterprises. Enterprises recognise that AI is essential to growth but remain early in their adoption as they navigate the unique technical complexity and security demands of operating AI-ready data centres. The expanded partnership aims to give organisations flexibility and choice as they look to meet the demand of AI workloads for high-performance, low-latency, highly power-efficient connectivity within and between data centres, clouds and users. “A robust and scalable AI ecosystem is key to driving the transformative power of AI,” said Hans Vestberg, Chairman and CEO of Verizon. “This expanded partnership between Cisco and NVIDIA, just like our Verizon AI Connect strategy and solutions, builds towards accelerating and enabling resource-intensive AI workloads at the Edge of the network.”

“Enterprises are under immense pressure to deploy AI quickly and effectively, and many leaders struggle to justify the investment while balancing the risks,” said Chuck Robbins, Chair and CEO of Cisco. “Together, Cisco and NVIDIA are partnering to remove barriers for

customers and ensure they can optimise their infrastructure investments to unlock the power of AI.” By making it easier to integrate and standardise on both Cisco and NVIDIA technology, customers will benefit from current and future technology advancements in the NVIDIA Spectrum-X platform such as adaptive routing, telemetry, congestion control and low latency, as well as Cisco’s broader networking, security, and digital resilience portfolio.

Together, the two companies are committed to bringing new levels of innovation to accelerate the adoption of AI within enterprises. Focusing on simplifying deployment and operations, while improving workload performance and visibility, the objective of this deeper partnership is to deliver the highest performance Ethernet solutions available for AI workloads and extend NVIDIA’s Spectrum-X architecture to include Cisco Silicon One, making Cisco the only partner silicon supported in Spectrum-X Ethernet solutions. In addition, the expanded partnership will help move enterprise data centre Ethernet AI projects from prototype to full deployment, which would otherwise be limited to public cloud or SaaS services.

Newcomers

So, the industry giants are working in accord to push the AI cause, but the positive case for AI is such that even newcomers are swept along by the tsunami of innovation. So, what’s next? The high stakes and dazzling pace of AI innovation were key themes at almost every meeting to discuss the topic

A key theme is AI’s potential to augment human efforts, not replace them. An example of this is a company called Augment Code which is doing this for software engineers. Scott Dietzen, Augment Code’s CEO, shared some of the challenges these engineers currently face, including maintenance testing, documentation, disaster recovery, fall tolerance, security requirement, and more. “We’re trying to augment software engineers to make their lives easier,” explained Dietzen, “to deliver a 5x or even a 10x more productive software engineer, by removing some of the drudgery and pain associated from advancing a really large, complex piece of software.” Nonetheless, the question remains of what is best way to govern AI? The answer may well be, governing with AI! Navrina Singh, the founder and CEO of Credo AI. Her company has developed an AI governance platform that empowers organizations to deliver and embed artificial intelligence responsibly. In short, it uses AI to manage, measure, and monitor AI. This simplifies and streamlines governance, which Singh called a highly misunderstood, but essential process for making AI successful in business. “One of the things that we are seeing evolving in this ecosystem is how do we actually first and foremost make sure that the governance tooling is able to be that single pane of governance across all your AI ops tooling,” she explained. “And that’s where integration becomes really critical.” Singh expects AI-generated governance to be widely adopted. “In the next three years,” she said, “AI governance is

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going to become your strategic advantage. It is not going to be like, ‘let’s do it later’; it’s going to be, ‘how much are you investing in it’?”

One relatively new subject on the AU agenda is that of “agentic AI,” whereby AI agents continue to evolve, becoming, in effect, extra employees, working and conversing with humans to solve problems, set agendas and solve problems, increasingly with their own proactive independence.” Will this lead to the development of the humanoid robots of sci-fi fame? Fei-Fei Li, of Stanford University, is working on 3D modelling that could anticipate a next step in human/machine interactions. “We believe that the ability to generate and interact with 3D worlds, real or virtual, is fundamental for intelligent agents, whether it’s people or robots or virtual agents,” she explained. “It unlocks a lot of applications and businesses, because it’s just so natural for an intelligent agent to work in that kind of space. So, we want to do the next generation foundation model for that. Because visual intelligence is a cornerstone of intelligence.” Li stressed that progress in AI shows no signs of slowing. “Things are happening now in AI that I never anticipated,” she concluded. “And the younger generation is going to make so much more happen. It’s just an exciting time to be in tech.”

AI beyond the workplace

The impact of AI technologies will be universal, across boundaries in education, health and entertainment as well as the workplace. Samsung Electronics, for example, unveiled its new AI-powered Interactive Display (WAFX-P model) at the rival Bett show 2025. Through the Samsung AI Assistant, the education-focused display combines advanced hardware and cutting-edge AI capabilities to create smarter learning environments that are more engaging and collaborative. “Samsung envisions a future where every classroom benefits from the transformative power of AI. By integrating advanced tools like generative AI and real-time transcription into our classroom displays with Samsung AI Assistant, we are not just enhancing learning - we are revolutionizing it,” said Hoon Chung, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. Samsung AI Assistant is a new educational solution built to adapt, engage and transform learning for the next generation. This dedicated teaching solution equips educators with intelligent, intuitive tools to organize lessons and transform traditional teaching into dynamic, interactive experiences that maximize learning outcomes. Samsung AI Assistant includes several innovative educational tools including: the Circle to Search feature which instantly delivers search results from trusted sources when users simply circle on-screen images or text, making exploration during class effortless; AI Summary creates concise lesson recaps automatically, making lesson planning easier for teachers and simplifying post-class reviews for students; while Live Transcript converts spoken words into text in real time for students to revisit and reinforce their classroom lessons.

In collaboration with Google, Samsung aims to develop diverse and powerful AI scenarios for fostering digital classrooms of the future. The WAFX-P is Google EDLA-certified, as well, providing seamless access to services like Google Classroom and Google Drive, which further enrich the educational experience. With these features, Samsung’s AI Interactive Display acts as a powerful teaching assistant, fostering exploration and collaboration. With 65”, 75” and 86” options, the full WAFX-P lineup supports powerful AI capabilities, with advanced hardware to deliver a seamless user experience. A neural processing unit (NPU) capable of performing up to 4.8 trillion operations per second ensures smooth operation of its AI features. Usurpingly, discussions of AI in education are commonly dominated by the issues of security and the impact of veracity and the risks of plagiarism with homework generated on ChatGPT. Early days.

Key launches at ISE 2025

New standard for versatility and viewa-

bility

on PCAP displays

PPDS announced the launch of its most advanced and versatile range of multi-touch displays to date with the new, reimagined Philips Interactive 3000 Series for installations in a broadening range of 24/7 environments. The chic, bezel-free Philips Interactive 3000 Series

marks a new generation of advanced, highly flexible multi-touch Android SoC displays from PPDS, presenting content as it was meant to be seen, with razor-sharp accuracy, colour precision, and brightness.

An update to the Philips T-Line Kiosk display range, the new Philips 3000 Series has been remodelled to fit market feedback and configured utilising the latest advancement in hardware, PCAP touch technology, and software. Bringing the flexibility to support a broadening range of installations, retail (including shopping centres), transport hubs, as well as food and beverage, are among key market verticals.

Andrea Barbuti, Global Product Management Lead for EMEA at PPDS, commented: “With the Philips T-Line Series, we raised the bar for how and where interactive displays can be used to bring new business benefits and enhanced user experiences. And now, with this new Philips Interactive 3000 Series, we’re significantly raising that bar again, adding unprecedented versatility and opportunities to an even wider audience.”

Offered in an extended range of 24”, 32”, 43” and 55” model variants, the Philips Interactive 3000 Series has been designed and equipped to meet any challenge, delivering premium performance, unparalleled reliability, and flexibility to any space. Updated for 24/7 operation, and repurposed in consultation with partners and customers, the Philips Interactive 3000 Series extends beyond traditional portrait and landscape mounting limitations, with all models now featuring a 30-degree tilt option, as well as optional open frame brackets, open-

ing new installation possibilities and enhanced creativity.

The request for tilted displays continues to grow, particularly for kiosks, with businesses looking to extend or renew their existing interactive displays beyond smaller screens, such as tablets. The Philips Interactive 3000 Series also features a secure ‘Kiosk Mode’ feature, disabling any unauthorised remote control, management or tampering for peace of mind. Lutz Harder, Global Product Manager for Interactive Displays at PPDS added: “Whether on a shelf – ideal for the 24” – angled or upright for POS, configurators, order points and kiosks – with the 32” and 43” – or for wayfinding – with the 55”, the installation possibilities and benefits with the Philips Interactive 3000 Series are seemingly endless.”

And that’s just the start.

Available as standard, each Philips Interactive 3000 Series model is equipped with a stunning edge-to-edge PCAP touch screen, while also being augmented with anti-glare and anti-fingerprint coating, allowing for perfect presentation, regardless of the number of fingers coming into contact between cleans. The Philips Interactive 3000 Series delivers optimum performances at all times, with the 24” and 32” models providing up to 350 cd/m2 brightness, while the larger 43” and 55” models are equipped with 450 cd/m2 for better visibility and user experiences.

Lutz Harder explained: “If you can’t see or use the screen, be it due to brighter light, irritating reflections or simply because it is covered in greasy fingerprints from customers who have just finished their lunch, then it is a failed experience. With Philips Professional Displays the user experience is paramount and for this new Philips Interactive 3000 Series the team has worked to ensure screens can be easily cleaned and will perform to the highest standard – all the time.”

Internally, the Philips Interactive 3000 Series helps to make the lives of AV/IT managers easier, while also delivering instant sustainability benefits and credentials –including financial – with every installation. Part of PPDS’ ever expanding Android SoC family, Philips Interactive 3000 Series displays come with an updated professional Android 13 SoC built-in, offering a seamless plug-and-play experience. With 4GB RAM and 32GB ROM as standard, there is no need for an external media player, with content able to be uploaded directly to the display for instant viewing. For complete peace of mind, the Philips Interactive 3000 Series also features PPDS’ renowned FailOver technology, ensuring screens never go blank, and content will continue to be presented, 24/7, even in the event of an outage.

Whether a single display or many installed around the world, the Philips Interactive 3000 Series offers extensive remote monitoring, maintenance, and management capabilities – whether for single displays or installations around the world – with Philips Wave. Developed in-house by the PPDS team, the scalable API-first Philips Wave platform, allows users – either locally or centrally – to unlock the full power, versatility, and intelligence of their displays, for greater time, energy, and

cost efficiencies. Firmware and software updates, adjusting settings, predictive maintenance, content creation and scheduling, are just some of the remote features available on the Philips Interactive 3000 Series with Philips Wave, while the ProStore provides a ‘onestop digital marketplace’ for access to their preferred applications and services, with zero concerns around compatibility.

Coupled with the benefits of Philips Wave, the Philips Interactive 3000 Series has also been heavily designed – inside and out – with sustainability and the environment in mind. Mirroring other Philips digital signage and LED models, the Philips Interactive 3000 Series has been reconfigured to run with reduced power consumption – without compromising on performance –versus previous models in the Series. All models also feature automatic backlight control, intelligently adjusting the brightness to suit lighting conditions, while ensuring perfect visibility and always viewing experiences.

The Samsung introduces Color E-Paper

The Samsung Color E-Paper delivers new levels of energy efficiency, while the AI features in SmartThings Pro and the Interactive Display increase the intelligence, control and usability of business-focused screens. In addition, the supersized 115” Smart Signage screen brings a new level of immersive visuals to life. “For commercial displays, it is crucial to address the market’s demand for energy efficiency and simple device management, while at the same time meeting the public’s desire for immersive experiences,” said Hoon Chung, Executive Vice President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “Our latest innovations, including the near-zero power Samsung Color E-Paper and advanced AI capabilities brought by all the models, showcase our commitment to pioneering new markets and providing transformative business solutions worldwide.”

Samsung Color E-Paper (EMDX model) redefines energy-efficient digital signage by combining digital ink with innovative full-colour e-paper technology. This ultra-low power, lightweight and slim display serves as an eco-conscious alternative to traditional analogue and paper-based promotional materials while delivering the high visibility and functionality that businesses demand. Leveraging advanced digital ink technology, the EMDX operates at 0.00W power when displaying static images, while consuming significantly less energy during image transitions compared to traditional digital signage, resulting in substantial cost savings.1 The ultra-slim and lightweight design ensures effortless installation, while the range of sizes — 1(1,600 x 1,200); 25(3,200 x 1,800); 32 QHD (2,560 x 1,440); and an outdoor version that is 75K (5,120 x 2,880) — are optimized to cater to diverse business needs. The Color E-Paper also includes a rechargeable 5000mAh battery, two USB-C ports for charging and data transfer, 8GB of memory, and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support for enhanced connectivity.

For seamless device management, a dedicated mobile

app allows users to remotely operate displays, schedule wake-up and sleep times, and even set playlists with predefined intervals. Samsung VXT (Visual eXperience Transformation) further simplifies content operation with a feature exclusive to the Samsung Color E-Paper. A specialized algorithm optimizes content visibility for the display and includes a preview function to ensure content and colour are accurate before deployment. Content management is made simple through the mobile app and Samsung VXT, with businesses also able to use their own solutions through Tizen Enterprise APIs, which enable easy integration with existing management systems. Moreover, as part of Samsung’s ongoing commitment to a sustainable future, the cover of the Color E-Paper is made from over 50% recycled plastics, while its packaging is made entirely from paper.

In 2025, SmartThings Pro, Samsung’s hyper-connected business-to-business (B2B) management platform, brings enhanced AI and automation capabilities to improve operational efficiency. The platform offers Interactive View, which uses AI to convert 2D floor plans into 3D images of business premises. This 3D visualization makes it easier to understand and navigate spaces intuitively, enabling business operators to manage connected devices with ease. SmartThings Pro also features advanced automation controls, allowing businesses to adjust settings — such as power, volume and brightness — based on pre-set conditions like ambient lighting, room occupancy and

store operating hours. These automated adjustments save time while ensuring devices are optimized for their environments. When using SmartThings Pro on displays, switching between content streams is equally seamless. This is because users are able to effortlessly change channels or input sources for a streamlined experience.

LG showcases digital signage solutions for diverse B2B applications

LG’s exhibition booth featured dedicated zones for business sectors including retail, corporate, education, transportation and hospitality. The tailored display solutions on show leverage the company’s state-of-the-art technologies to meet the diverse needs of B2B clients and enhance and expand the customer experience. LG captured the attention of ISE visitors with its gigantic “shapeshifting” Kinetic LED display. Installed at the entrance of the company’s exhibition booth, the Kinetic LED employs cutting-edge AI technology to enthral, entertain and amaze. The impressive screen, composed of 88 connected LED panels, measures 7,180 x 4,090 millimetres. Combining LEDs and mirrors, the cubeshaped modules that make up the Kinetic LED can rotate 360 degrees horizontally to create dynamic and mesmerizing movements.

Visitors to LG’s booth could also enjoy an AI-powered “image transformation” experience with the Kinetic LED. After they’ve taken a photo with their smartphone and uploaded it via scanning the provided QR code,

their picture is transformed by LG’s generative AI into a Pop Art-style image, which is then displayed on the Kinetic LED. This fun, interactive feature, developed by LG and its Kinetic solution partner, Easywith, serves as an engaging advertising solution that invites direct participation from audiences. In addition to the captivating Kinetic LED, LG showcased a wide range of advanced technologies developed in collaboration with its domestic (South Korean) and global partners. Among LG’s key partners are Triplet, an AI-driven customer behaviour analytics company; Kokomo 24/7, a firm specializing in school access management and emergency response solutions; and companies such as Megapixel VR, Mo-Sys Engineering and Brompton Technology – industry leaders in the areas of broadcast equipment and virtual production. LG also teamed up with corporate video conferencing solutions providers Logitech, Cisco and Crestron, and signage-specific content management solutions provider, BrightSign, to demonstrate the latest innovations in collaboration technology.

LG upgraded its acclaimed LG MAGNIT micro LED displays to improve ease of installation, content compatibility and energy efficiency. Thanks to a new design, installers can now adjust the spaces between LED modules from the rear of the display; a task that could only be performed from the front on previous models. Additionally, compatibility with content controllers has been enhanced to ensure optimal colours and image quality, while standby power consumption has been reduced by up to 98 percent compared to earlier models, significantly improving overall energy efficiency. LG’s latest innovations in micro-LED technology, including the newest MAGNIT solutions, can be found in the dedicated LED Tech Zone.

At ISE 2025, LG debuted high-brightness outdoor signage solutions featuring the company’s own Anti-Discoloration technology. On show to the public for the first time, this advanced tech helps to protect LG’s high-brightness signage for outdoor spaces against the negative impacts of screen-yellowing – a common issue caused by prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

In the Retail Zone of LG’s ISE booth, visitors could explore a comprehensive selection of solutions tailored for retail environments. The display included LG’s versatile and easy-to-install second-generation modular kiosks, as well as three digital signage models (US5P, UV5N and UP5Q) that feature outer casings certified to meet stringent international fire safety standards (BS476 in the UK and EN13501-1 in the EU).

Sharp/NEC presents a new fully Sharp branded range

As the company marks the 40th anniversary of the acclaimed MultiSync brand, Sharp/NEC upheld its legacy of durable, high-performance display technology, based on the proven principles of Japanese engineering and design excellence. This established high-quality continues to serve as a firm foundation for sustain-

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ability through extended lifecycles, as Sharp/NEC builds on its pioneering heritage to engineer the next era of sustainable, user-centred innovation.

The four Sharp branded MultiSync LFD series provide commercial-grade performance and professional capabilities appropriate to a wide range of application scenarios. From the budget-conscious E Series to the advanced features of the P Series, reliability and long-life performance with robust metal chassis come as standard, as expected of Sharp/NEC’s high-quality manufacture. The new MultiSync lineup is categorised as follows:

•The essential MultiSync E Series in 32- to 86-inch sizes

•The 2nd-gen MultiSync ME Series brings new larger displays, from 43- to 98-inches

•The 2nd-gen MultiSync M Series in 32- to 98-inches

•The advanced MultiSync P Series in 43- to 65-inch sizes

Professional capabilities across the range encompass integrated computing technologies offering different levels of performance. Flexible use cases are supported by Android SoC, or modular options using Raspberry Pi or Intel SDM compute solutions, unlocking future proof efficiencies and security in IT integration and signage performance. “No matter what the application requirements and installation challenges are, we can offer the perfect-fit display solution, providing outstanding user experiences,” explains Martin Lienau, Product Manager for Large Format Displays at Sharp NEC Display Solutions Europe. “Complementing our wider visual solution portfolio, our comprehensive new MultiSync large format display range brings completeness to our offering which fulfils our customer promise. Our customers can expect performance and value, without compromising our dedication to quality, service and sustainability.”

“Thanks to our wide-ranging computing solutions which optimise the connection between source and display, we can serve any usage scenario across so many industries and applications. Through simplified installation, customisable performance levels, and secure interoperability, we are helping our customers to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital world,” adds Erik Elbert, Senior Product Manager Large Format Displays and Computing Technologies at Sharp NEC Display Solutions Europe.

All second-generation Sharp MultiSync® ME Series devices will be available from January 2025. Second generation M Series, E Series and P Series displays will be available from the second quarter of 2025.

Epson launches high brightness fixed lens laser projector range

Epson announced an expanded range of high brightness, fixed-lens projectors designed to meet the diverse and varied needs of education, businesses, retail, museums, visitor attractions, and immersive experiences. Built on the success of its legacy models, the EB-L8/7/6

series offers new high-performance laser light source variants ranging from 6,000 to 8,000 lumens with WUXGA and 4K Enhancement technology.

The latest series has been developed to deliver large-scale displays designed to modernise visual environments, meeting the growing demand for easy-touse collaborative solutions with enhanced connectivity. With this series, Epson is providing lower-cost laser display solutions into new brightness categories, making lamp replacements and clunky, inflexible flat panels, problems of the past. The new range offers additional peace of mind with a 3-year warranty upgradable to a 5-year warranty with Epson CoverPlus.

The new EB-L8/7/6 series of high-quality Epson projectors has been developed, produced and packaged with sustainability at front of mind, demonstrating Epson’s continuous journey towards carbon-neutrality with lower environmental impact. Its features include:

•Chassis made from 65% Post Consumer Recycled (PCR) plastics to help reduce carbon emissions and landfill waste.

•Packaging crafted from 100% recyclable cardboard.

•Compact, lightweight designs, enabling installation by a single person, minimising costs and environmental impact.

•Manufactured in Epson factories utilising 100% renewable electricity.

•Laser light source that requires less maintenance and lower energy consumption.

•Lower total cost of ownership with reliable “fit and forget” installations.

•End-of-life services covering recycling, reuse, or energy recovery schemes throughout Europe.

“Epson is committed to developing ever more sustainable projection technologies,” explains Massimo Pizzocri at Epson Europe. “The EB-L8/7/6 series represents another milestone in our continued journey towards achieving carbon-neutrality through the integration of more sustainable practices without compromising on quality or performance. Our new series of affordable laser-source display solutions are specially designed to meet the diverse and varied needs of businesses, education, retail and signage.”

Christie launches world’s first high-brightness hybrid RGB laser projector

Christie announced the launch of the Sapphire 4K40-RGBH projector, which combines solid-state RGB pure laser illumination with a dual laser phosphor system into the world’s first high-brightness hybrid RGB laser projector. With hybrid illumination, users have a projector that provides maximum flexibility. Sapphire is designed for any 2D application, front or rear projection, all active and passive 3D formats, and any screen type.

The Sapphire 4K40-RGBH delivers vibrant DCI-P3 colour, 40,000 lumens of brightness, native 4K clarity in 2D and 3D on all screen types, and front and rear projection. It also offers high frame rate options, from 4K at 120 Hz to 2K resolution at 480 Hz.

Sapphire sets a new standard with its exclusive Infitec

colour comb 3D solution. Unlike traditional laser phosphor projectors, Sapphire offers superior light efficiency and a wider colour gamut for brighter, more immersive 3D experiences making it the ideal choice for 3D dark rides, other media-based attractions, and visualization powerwalls. “With its unique hybrid illumination architecture, the Sapphire 4K40-RGBH is a flexible solution for 2D and 3D front and rear projection applications,” says Larry Paul, executive director of technology and custom solutions, Christie. “We’re excited to introduce this projector at ISE 2025 and we invite attendees to experience the brilliance of Sapphire in person.”

The Sapphire 4K40-RGBH hybrid RGB laser projector is designed to deliver best-in-class experiences for applications including theme park attractions, live events, rental and staging, and visualization, and is available for order now.

Sony reimagines collaboration

Sony returned to ISE to present its latest portfolio of products and solutions that cater to the retail, corporate, education, content and virtual production sectors. Designed to support customers in creating connected experiences, Sony’s booth showcased its latest offerings – including the new Remote Device Manager for BRAVIA Professional Displays and latest firmware update for the SRG A40 & A12 PTZ cameras with AI analytics, both of which build upon the existing high-quality technology that customers know and love.

“It’s great to be back at ISE presenting our fully sustainable stand and next level of updates in our partnerships, products, technology and solutions that will deliver huge benefits for companies across the retail, education, corporate, and content production sectors,” commented Rik Willemse, Head of Sony Professional Displays & Solutions Europe. “We’ve been focusing a lot on our long-term vision and purpose, particularly around our ESG initiatives, and are looking forward to showcasing our many initiatives under our wider Sony Road to Zero plan. There’s no better place to catch up with recent advancements and developments in AV than this industry-defining event.”

Retailers have undergone a huge digital transformation in previous years to provide immersive shopping environments for their customers. In Sony’s latest State of Retail Technology Report, a chasm has been identified between the priorities of retailers and consumers growing expectations of digital experiences and sustainable practice. To support retailers in continuing to evolve their stores and shopping experiences, visitors to the Sony booth were able to experience a mock-up store seamless brand experiences in store front of UK fashion designer Stella McCartney featuring the BRAVIA BZ40L & BZ30J series of Professional Displays. The flagship BZ-L displays are designed with a strong focus on sustainability and cutting-edge technology featuring Sony’s Deep Black Non-Glare coating technology to deliver incredible picture quality whilst mitigating reflections in even the most challenging lighting conditions like a bright, colourful retail store front.

A proportion of these displays are made from recycled materials, including SORPLAS and feature advanced components such as a powerful System on Chip (SoC) and an intuitive Eco dashboard, ensuring both efficiency and ease of use. Also, an ambient light sensor optimises power consumption, contributing to impressive low EPREL energy rankings across the lineup. As an exciting addition to the booth this year, Sony’s new AI Analytics technology, AITRIOS, will be showcased to show visitors how AI can transform their retail stores and enrich the shopping experiences for customers.

To further enhance its BRAVIA 4K Professional Display line-up, Sony launched its new cloud-based provisioning, control & monitoring service, Remote Device Manager (RDM), that will save time and money for integrators and end customers during installation, operation and trouble shooting. Deployed on site via Zero-Touch Provisioning, RDM will deliver new features for control and monitoring of its BRAVIA displays, including the ability to remotely update software, monitor the status of multiple displays, detect abnormal states and capture screenshots.

More and more businesses are prioritising sustainable products and solutions, with Sony’s recent survey unveiled that around 8 in 10 businesses are willing to pay over 20% more for AV products that are either made sustainably or operate with greater energy efficiency.

The booth had a dedicated area for corporate solutions showcasing the BRAVIA BZ-L range and its sustainable meeting room efficiencies, TEOS Workspace Solution & corporate partner integrations for Control systems, Workspace solutions and UC hardware. The latest business laser projectors from Sony such as the VPL-PHZ61 and VPL-FHZ85 will also be on display.

Sony delivers a range of advanced solutions that transform teaching and hybrid learning to make lessons more engaging as well as providing support for teachers and inspiring every student. On the booth Sony will be showcasing demo videos of our brand-new Ver. 3.0 firmware update for SRG-A40 and SRG-A12, with its built-in AI PTZ Auto Framing. The new update features Fixed Angle Position where the PTZ Auto Framing will pause, and the angle of view will automatically move and hold the predefined area. Whether it’s for streaming live events, creating high-impact commercial content, or producing engaging training materials, Sony will debut a dedicated content production hub to show its solutions that meet the needs of organisations who aim to elevate their brands and differentiate within the market.

“As the AV landscape continues to evolve in focus, over the past few years ISE has adapted to suit by bringing a blend of AV and content production to visitors wanting to elevate their brand. We are looking forward to showcasing our extensive portfolio of live and content production solutions aimed at setting the stage for more engaging communications, extending the reach of companies’ live events, seminars and meetings to their internal and external audiences alike,” comments Norbert Paquet, Head of Live Production Solutions, Sony. This hub will demonstrate the connected experience

which Sony is constantly building upon and enhancing. Its live and content production solutions support brands looking to advance and streamline their content creation, production and distribution. For content capture, Sony’s latest AI-based camera solutions – the PTZ auto framing BRC-AM7 camera and PXW-Z200 – will be demonstrated, giving visitors an opportunity to experience AI-powered technology and flagship image quality. For production workflows, the XVS-G1 live production switcher and software-based M2L-X switcher are ideal solutions for live productions where the content can also be managed and distributed

Boom launched a ‘meeting room in-a-box’ video kit

Boom also launched a ‘meeting room in-a-box’ video kit range. The all-in-one solutions feature video and audio hardware plus a one-cable-connection station – designed to simplify installations and capitalise on high demand for Bring Your Own Meeting deployments.

“The video conferencing world moves fast, and we know we have to move even faster to stay ahead,” says Co-Founder Fredrik Hörnkvist.

For Boom: “ISE was a resounding success and generated a record number of sales leads as well as huge amounts of interest. Our focus has always been on creating solutions that simplify collaboration while delivering an exceptional experience, based on any device across any platform in any room. ISE was our chance to show just how far we’ve come – and what’s next. These latest innovations are about making conferencing easier and more intuitive for everyone.”

Fellow founder Holli Hulett says Boom demonstrated

its complete range of video, audio and connectivity solutions: “Simplicity is our compass. Our meeting room in-a-box kits for example make it easier to choose the right equipment for any space while delivering the high-quality features teams need to work effectively. They’re practical, efficient, and designed to take the hassle out of getting your stuff done.”

She emphasised: “We showcased many new innovations which demonstrated how Boom continues to raise the game in the video conferencing arena.” Visitors to ISE witnessed Boom’s HALO videobar which boasts ultra-HD 4K performance, a wide angle 120° field of view, AI Auto-framing and speaker-tracking, 10x ePTZ, six digital array mics plus the option of up to 8 additional expandable mics. It’s available in black or white colours. Hulett added: “We’ve worked hard to bring products to market that solve real problems – things like streamlining setups, making BYOM seamless, and making sure every room, no matter its size, delivers the best experience. There’s even more to come.”

Panasonic unveils sustainable imaging solutions

Panasonic Connect Europe’s next-generation of IPbased Visual and ProAV solutions enable customers in the education, corporate, and entertainment sectors to take sustainable, seamless, high-performance video production, collaboration, and projection to new heights. Panasonic’s three new all-in-one professional LED displays, available in 165-inch, 137-inch, and 110-inch models, deliver outstanding performance in education, university, or corporate environments. They are the first

LED displays to feature dual Intel® SDM slots, allowing for seamless AVoIP integration with various proprietary or third-party function boards. This enables customers to unlock the full potential of AVoIP, enabling increased communication and collaboration between multiple devices in different locations.

Panasonic’s range of all-in-one LED displays utilises its unrivalled industry knowledge and expertise of IP-based connectivity and configurability – and of what customers require from a professional display. They feature a brightness of up to 700 cd/m2 and a pixel pitch of up to 1.9mm, displaying high-quality images with no colour deviation, even in bright environments. Easy to configure and use out-of-the-box, Panasonic’s all-in-one LED displays are lighter and thinner than conventional displays, increasing installation flexibility. They are shipped semi-assembled, and with mounting hardware included, they can be easily installed and used immediately with an HDMI cable.

The PT-VMZ82 Series is Panasonic’s most energy-efficient LCD projector to-date. It uses 25% less energy than its current range of LCD projectors, and features a body made of up to 59% recycled resins. The VMZ82 delivers sharp, vibrant projection, even in well-lit spaces – making it ideal for corporate, education and entertainment spaces. It delivers maintenance-free projection for up to 20,000 hours, while Auto Power On reduces energy usage when idle – saving significant costs. The VMZ82 Series, featuring the VMZ82 (8,000lm), VMZ72 (7,200lm), and VMZ62 (6,500lm), are the smallest and lightest in their class. The VMZ82 Series features Daylight View Basic functionality, optimising image quality based on ambient lighting

Plastic in the PT-VMZ82 Series main body contains 59% recycled resins, and the PT-VMZ7ST Series contains 56% recycled resins. By total weight of plastic parts in the projector main unit. Excludes printed circuit boards, labels, cables, connectors, electronic components, optical components, ESD components, EMI component adhesives, and coatings.

Panasonic Connect Europe’s newest version of its user-friendly PressIT wireless presentation system – the WPS2 Series – delivers seamless, stress-free, and highly effective collaboration and communication in professional and learning environments. It is the perfect plugand-play tool to enhance face-to-face communication, enabling users to wirelessly project from their PC, tablet, or smartphone screen onto a display or projector at the push of a button – without any unnecessary delays in set-up.

PressIT allows up to 32 devices and four screens to be displayed simultaneously, enabling users to instantly collaborate, compare documents, and share ideas, making presentations simpler and more effective. It perfectly reflects Panasonic’s drive towards increased sustainability in every area; the latest version of PressIT features a reduced form factor and reduced packaging material – reducing overall plastic usage by up to 64%

Arthur Brockhoff of PlexusAV talk to Bryan Denyer

PlexusAV www.plexusav.com are one of the most exciting new brands to have emerged onto the AV Market over the past 2 years. A wholly owned subsidiary of Sencore, a 70-year-old US based business who are a major player in the Broadcast sector, we spoke to Arthur Brockhoff who recently joined them about his background, the brand and their ambitions.

BD – For those readers that don’t already know you, can you please provide a little background on yourself and what you do.

AB – I am Arthur Brockhoff, Regional Sales Manager EMEA for PlexusAV. I have been in the ProAV and broadcast industry for 34 years and previously worked at Crestron as Business Development Manager Government for the BeNeLux region. Before this, I held various roles across different sectors within the ProAV business— ranging from running my own company to working in distribution, software, integration, and for major vendors. Always from a commercial and business development perspective, building lasting relationships with end-clients, distributors, integrators, dealers, and consultants.

BD – For those readers that don’t already know PlexusAV, are you able to sum up what they do and why you went to work for them…

AB – PlexusAV are the first brand to build a complete AVOIP solution around the open standard IPMX, from the ground up. I am convinced that IPMX will become the standard for AV-over-IP. If you look at the history of standardization in IT and Voice over IP, it’s hard to reach any other conclusion. IPMX is based on the SMPTE ST 2110 standard, which is the standard that the Broadcast Industry has been using for years. 2110 is well proven, but it did not have all the bells and whistles that ProAV required and so hence IPMX, now it does…The era of closed systems and vendor lock-in is coming to

an end.

Whilst our products can be used independently, when using them over an IPMX based platform, that is when they really come into their own. I wanted to be part of this evolution and contribute to the future of AV-over-IP.

BD – What are the key added values that PlexusAV offers?

AB - For clients such as universities, government institutions, and large enterprise users, PlexusAV’s IPMX solution unlocks an unprecedented range of possibilities. While it can, of course, be used for encoding and decoding audio and video, its true strength lies in the ability to seamlessly integrate existing systems and infrastructures with ease.

Additionally, because IPMX is an open standard, it allows for interoperability with other products, breaking away from the traditional closed-system approach that has dominated the market until now.

“It’s a completely different way of thinking—one that frees users from closed ecosystems and opens new possibilities for the future.”

The PlexusAV product line is fully scalable and includes a range of software and hardware solutions. To ensure a seamless experience, we have developed an intuitive user interface that not only provides a clear overview of system capabilities and performance but also offers insights into the status and monitoring of connected and integrated systems—optimizing performance across the entire AV infrastructure.

BD – It sound exciting, but why should End Users, AV Consultants, SI’s and VAR’s move away from their existing solution.

AB – For an End User and AV Consultant, the reasons are very clear. If they move their core platform over to a “truly open standard”, then this opens up a choice of every product on the market, provided it has IMPX of course… Hence why we have seen so much interest from End Users themselves. For the AV Consultants, why would they not recommend a platform and a system that has true-interoperability via a genuine open standard. Why would you leave your client “tied” to any one brand? In my opinion the same goes for the SI’s and the VAR’s, surely your clients will thank you for opening their eyes and allowing them a true choice of any product, knowing it will 100% work. It’s futureproofing your business and theirs… Beyond interoperability, no one has been able to explain to me why you would convert an already IP-encoded signal back to HDMI, only to encode it again for further distribution, streaming, or recording purposes. Instead, use the IP signal as it is and make it work seamlessly with other IP signals—without the need for extra “boxes” and encoders. It’s a far more efficient approach, better for sustainability, and ultimately better for our environment and the world.

BD – That all sounds very well, but what about NDI and Dante and other platforms… Do the End Users, AV Consultants, SI’s & VAR’s have to move away from that?

AB – Absolutely not. IPMX allows for NDI, Dante and all other platforms to be incorporated into the eco AVoIP system by Streaming Conversion Gateways. As I stated, it’s a true open standard.

BD – So who defines the IPMX standard and is it finished…

AB: That’s a great question! The standard was developed by The Alliance for IP Media Solutions (AIMS), a non-profit trade association that promotes the use of open standards for interoperability in the media and entertainment industries. AIMS consists of a broad group of manufacturers, and I would say the standard is about 90% complete—meaning that everything specified feature-wise works together perfectly.

The beauty of AIMS is that it allows manufacturers to continuously add new features as the AV industry evolves. So, is it 100% finished? No, and I don’t think it ever will be—or should be—because our industry never stands still. However, does it work? Absolutely!

BD – PlexusAV were one of the exhibitors at ISE this year and so what was new and how did that go…

AB: At ISE this year, we introduced several exciting new products.

One of the highlights was the PlexusAV AVN-2, which combines the efficiency of HEVC and H.264 compression with IPMX’s advanced capabilities. This device delivers ultra-low-latency, high-quality streams, even in bandwidth-constrained environments—all at a very competitive price point.

We also previewed the all-new PlexusAV P-AVN-SCG – Stream Conversion Gateway. Designed to tackle a key challenge in the AV industry, this device serves as a bridge between legacy and emerging technologies. The SCG supports multiple input and output protocols, including MPEG-IP, IPMX, NDI-HX, RTSP, SRT, and RTMP, making it a powerhouse for AV-over-IP protocol conversion.

These new products were showcased alongside our existing solutions, including the PlexusAV P-AVN-VA –Visual Array and the Plexus AVN-4 transceiver, further demonstrating our commitment to delivering flexible and future-ready AV-over-IP solutions.

BD – So for anyone interested in PlexusAV, how do they access it in the UK.

AB: We are 100% committed to the channel here in the UK, and we were thrilled to announce our distribution agreement with One Media towards the end of last year.

Before making this decision, Steve Cogels (Global Director of Business Development at PlexusAV) and I traveled across the UK, meeting with potential distributors. As a new and emerging brand with cutting-edge technology, it was crucial for us to partner with a distributor that truly understands the UK market and can provide the right level of support.

We believe that One Media is the perfect fit, as they align with our vision and growth strategy. They are an ambitious and dynamic company, and we are excited to grow alongside them in the UK market.

BD – So what’s next for PlexusAV.

AB: We are very keen to establish case studies in the UK, so if any of your readers are interested in discussing this, please have them contact OneMedia via sales@ onemedia.co.uk. I am sure OneMedia will be more than happy to assist.

In terms of future products, we already have several key engineering projects in development, which we aim to unveil at InfoComm in Orlando. That said, our primary focus remains on ensuring that our existing products are being specified and adopted by major global end-users, AV consultants, and system integrators (SIs).

BD – Thank you so much for coming over to talk to us today Arthur and for any businesses trading outside the UK who might have seen this interview and are interested in PlexusAV. How do they contact you.

AB – They can always e-mail sales@plexusav.com or my personal e-mail is arthur.brockhoff@plexusav.com we would love to hear from them and many thanks for your time Bryan

Enhancing the visitor experience at Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo, a historic institution in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 1868, is dedicated to preserving wildlife and enhancing the visitor experience. To modernise its guest communications and provide more dynamic wayfinding solutions, the zoo partnered with Peerless-AV® to implement an innovative digital signage solution that optimises the visitor experience while integrating seamlessly into the zoo’s unique environment.

The zoo’s project, launched in Summer 2023 and completed by August 2024, included the installation of outdoor kiosks and indoor display mounts, designed to deliver high-quality, flexible content across the zoo’s high-traffic areas. As a long-standing cultural and educational landmark, Lincoln Park Zoo faced a challenge common among historic sites: how to modernise infrastructure without sacrificing the integrity of the location or overwhelming the natural environment. The zoo had relied on traditional, static signage for wayfinding, events, and educational content, but as the guest experience continued to evolve, the need for a more adaptable, engaging, and informative digital solution became clear.

Additionally, given Chicago’s extreme weather conditions—ranging from frigid winters to humid summers— the zoo required a signage solution that was not only adaptable but also durable enough to withstand these environmental challenges. The zoo applied for a grant to enhance the guest experience, including funding the installation of digital signage technology that would optimise the communication of venue and programming information across the zoo via digital signage.

Upon receiving the grant, Peerless-AV was selected as the manufacturer and integrator for this digital transformation project due to its ability to deliver high-performance, weather-resistant outdoor digital signage solutions and its strong existing relationship with the zoo. The outdoor kiosks and displays used in this installation are designed with exceptional durability and brightness, which allows for optimal visibility in all lighting conditions, whether it’s a bright summer day or a cloudy winter afternoon. Working closely with Lincoln Park Zoo and the team at CDW, Peerless-AV provided a comprehensive range of solutions to address the zoo’s needs.

Installation teams designed a plan to implement digital solutions at key locations throughout the zoo, including entrances, high-traffic pathways, and near the zoo gates

to maximise visibility and engagement. One of the challenges was ensuring the installation did not disrupt the natural lighting patterns of animal enclosures to avoid impacting the well-being of the animals, while also optimising communication for guests. Lincoln Park Zoo chose Peerless-AV because of its superior display quality, with bright and clear images. Another critical factor in choosing Peerless-AV was the company’s strong customer support. Peerless-AV worked hand-in-hand with the zoo’s project managers, providing technical assistance, engineering expertise, and on-site support during installation. Their collaborative approach and problem-solving skills were especially valuable in overcoming site-specific challenges like the placement of the displays in busy and environmentally sensitive areas. Installation took place in Summer 2024. The zoo’s IT team was also involved in the planning, ensuring the existing Wi-Fi infrastructure was robust enough to support the content management system (CMS). Peerless-AV worked with the zoo to ensure the system was easy to update remotely, facilitating quicker adjustments to content, event promotions, and other important messaging.

The indoor Searle Visitor Centre installation included:

Four 75” Samsung landscape displays + Peerless-AV SmartMount Universal Flat Wall Mounts (SF650)

55” Samsung display + Peerless-AV SmartMount Universal Flat Wall Mount (SF640)

The outdoor East Gate area installation included:

Three Peerless-AV Smart City Kiosks (KOP55XHB) with 55” Xtreme™ High Bright Outdoor Displays (XHB554) fixed to concrete pedestals - Each equipped with a Wi-Fi antenna + a BrightSign media player

Two Peerless-AV 75” Xtreme™ High Bright Outdoor Displays (XHB754) + Outdoor Flat Wall Mounts (ESF675) with corrosion resistant coating and stainless-steel hardwar

Rob Meiner, Technical Sales Engineer, Peerless-AV commented, “It’s great to see zoos embracing digital signage as a more efficient and effective alternative to traditional printed posters. Installing in these unique environments requires careful consideration and respect to ensure zero disruption to its inhabitants. Walking round the zoo grounds, I’ve seen how people are now engaging with the kiosks and displays, helping them to navigate around the enclosures, locate amenities, learn about upcoming attractions, restaurant offers, conservation efforts and more. Using our digital signage solutions allows the zoo to adapt quickly to changing information and communication needs and it’s rewarding to see how these solutions can make a significant impact in improving guest engagement.”

The digital signage installed by Peerless-AV has not only transformed the visitor experience at Lincoln Park Zoo, but it has increased revenue opportunities by promoting multiple types of content encouraging greater participation in zoo activities and growth in on-site spending. Thanks to the centralized CMS, communication has become streamlined for quick content updates, reducing the time and resources spent managing static signage. “Our new audiovisual installations have transformed the visitor experience,” said Hyson Gibbon, Project Manager. “The displays are well positioned at strategic locations; they are also vibrant and crystal clear to be eye-catching and augment our natural exhibits by bringing our educational programs to life.”

Lincoln Park Zoo’s collaboration with Peerless-AV has set a new standard for digital signage in an environment that is helping to preserve the natural world and cultivate positive cultural attitudes towards animals into the future. Lincoln Park Zoo is now able to deliver timely, engaging, and relevant content to visitors, all while maintaining the integrity of its iconic and historic Chicago location.

Avocor’s journey from start-up to global leader

With a recent acquisition and a strong track record of innovation, Avocor is poised for further growth, building on a decade of delivering quality display solutions to a wide variety of global partners and customers. Over the past decade, Avocor has steadily grown its presence in the communication and collaboration technology sector. Since its founding in 2016, the company has concentrated on developing and delivering solutions through consistent technological improvements and a focus on quality

Avocor has benefited from the extensive and practical experience of its leadership team within the audiovisual industry. This understanding of market dynamics and trends has been particularly valuable in navigating the evolving technological landscape. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the company’s ability to adapt to the increased demand for hybrid work solutions became a key strength. By anticipating the need for robust remote collaboration tools, Avocor was able to provide technology that facilitated effective communication and teamwork among geographically dispersed teams.

Initially, Avocor’s product development efforts were primarily focused on interactive flat panels designed for corporate environments. However, the company recognised the diverse needs of other sectors and subsequently expanded its product range to serve education, government, and healthcare. This diversification involved the development of a wider array of display sizes and aspect ratios, each incorporating features designed to enhance user experience and functionality. These features included advanced touch technology for intuitive interaction, remote management capabilities for efficient device control and maintenance, high-resolution visuals for clear and detailed displays, and seamless integration with leading cloud collaboration tools to support teamwork and communication.

To meet the demand for comprehensive display solutions, Avocor also strategically entered the digital signage market. This expansion resulted in the develop-

ment of the X Series DVLED displays, offering scalable and visually impactful solutions, and the K Series, providing versatile and reliable options for various digital signage applications. This move solidified Avocor’s position as a provider of a broad range of display solutions.

Avocor has a history of bringing innovative collaboration solutions to market. Notably, the company was among the first to introduce the Windows Collaboration Display, developed in partnership with Microsoft. This initiative demonstrated Avocor’s commitment to integrated technology designed for modern workspaces. Avocor also collaborated with Google to launch the Board 65 and Desk 27, expanding its range of interactive displays to meet the diverse needs of hybrid work environments.

The company continues to support the hybrid working ecosystem through strategic partnerships with leading collaboration brands, including Logitech, Jabra, HP Poly, Lucid, and Zoom. By working closely with these companies, Avocor aims to ensure its interactive displays integrate effectively with their platforms, providing users with comprehensive and efficient collaboration tools.

Avocor’s growth has been supported by a well-defined market diversification strategy. Starting with a primary

focus on corporate clients, the company broadened its reach to serve a wider spectrum of sectors, each with its unique requirements and challenges. This strategic expansion was complemented by a global growth strategy, which included establishing offices in key regions such as the United States, Europe, and, most recently, India. This global presence has enabled the company to effectively serve its international customer base and adapt to regional market dynamics.

In 2024, Avocor expanded its operations into the Indian market, recognizing the region’s significant growth potential and increasing demand for advanced interactive display solutions. By establishing a local presence and forming strategic partnerships with educational and corporate entities, the company launched the S Series, a product line specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of the education sector in India. This move demonstrated Avocor’s ability to adapt its product offerings to meet the specific requirements of diverse markets.

Recent product developments further highlight Avocor’s commitment to innovation. The Avocor E92 interactive touch screen display, with its 92-inch ultra-wide LCD and 21:9 aspect ratio, offers an expanded interactive workspace, eliminating the need for dual-monitor setups. Its 5120 x 2160 resolution and support for up to 50 touch points on Windows make it suitable for immersive presentations, video conferencing, and digital signage. The Avocor S Series, built on an Android platform, has been specifically designed for educational environments. It allows educators to utilise their preferred applications directly from the display and within the built-in whiteboard platform, providing an intuitive and affordable solution for interactive learning. For non-interactive environments, the Avocor K Series offers QLED technology in sizes ranging from 55 to 98 inches, delivering high-quality visuals for presentations, digital signage, and large-scale visual communication in corporate, educational, and government settings.

The recent acquisition of Avocor by AUO, a major technology conglomerate, represents a significant development for the company. This strategic partnership is expected to enhance Avocor’s research and development capabilities, facilitate the integration of advanced technologies into its product lines, and strengthen its global distribution network. This collaboration will enable Avocor to further develop its product offerings, expand its market reach, and better serve a wider range o customer needs across various geographical regions.

Looking ahead, Avocor remains focused on continued growth and sustained innovation. The company has consistently demonstrated its commitment to technological advancement through its partnership with AUO and the development of a ground-breaking 8K display. Further innovations are in the pipeline.

Avocor’s development reflects a consistent focus on innovation, quality, and providing customer-focused solutions. The company aims to maintain and strengthen its position in the collaboration and communication market by continuing to meet the evolving needs of its partners and customers.

www.avocor.com

About Avocor

Avocor, an AUO company, develops interactive solutions and software platforms that stimulate creativity, engagement, and teamwork, and is passionate about creating solutions that make a difference. Headquartered in the U.S. with global offices, Avocor is dedicated to delivering collaboration solutions globally through an extensive and experienced partner network. Learn more at www. avocor.com or follow news and updates from Avocor on social media via LinkedIn and YouTube.

Jabra launches the PanaCast 40 VBS

Jabra has announced the launch of the PanaCast 40 VBS, the only Android-powered video bar designed specifically for small meeting rooms that captures the entire room with 180-degree FoV. This latest innovation builds on the success of Jabra’s PanaCast 50 VBS, bringing the same powerful performance to smaller spaces in a more compact and cost-effective package. As more organizations transition back to the office and hybrid work environments become the norm, the demand for efficient small meeting space solutions continues to grow. These spaces often pose unique challenges for video collaboration. Traditional solutions often struggle to capture all participants equally, particularly those seated closer to the screen, while some lack video conferencing equipment altogether. This imbalance can result in empty meeting rooms and gaps in communication, highlighting the need for solutions that provide clear, inclusive experiences for everyone, regardless of location.

The PanaCast 40 VBS bridges this gap by delivering an all-in-one solution that transforms small meeting rooms into high-performing collaboration hubs. With its wide field of view, exceptional audio quality, and seamless usability, the PanaCast 40 VBS ensures every participant is seen and heard clearly, enabling organizations to fully utilize their small spaces and bring collaboration to new heights. Globally, less than 3% of huddle rooms are video enabled*, leaving millions of small meeting spaces underutilized and underserved. The PanaCast 40 VBS addresses this challenge with its innovative dual-camera systems, delivering a seamless180° field of view through advanced stitching technology. This ensures full room coverage, making every participant clearly visible on video. The video capabilities are matched by the advanced audio performance, which stems from the GN group-wide unique sound processing capabilities. The sound is powered by a single high-quality speaker and six microphones with adaptive beamforming. Intelligent audio algorithms enhance sound clarity for exceptional voice pickup, so every word is heard clearly and accurately, fostering more natural and engaging vir-

Jabra has announced the launch of the PanaCast 40 VBS, the only rooms that captures the entire room with 180-degree FoV.

tual interactions and ensuring remote participants feel fully included.

By reimagining what’s possible in a huddle room, the PanaCast 40 VBS transforms a small space into a comfortable collaboration area, allowing facility managers to unlock the full potential of these underutilized spaces. Designed with simplicity and ease of use at its core, the PanaCast 40 VBS offers a straightforward installation process—from unboxing to mounting to the first meeting. Its intuitive setup ensures that even first-time customers can get their systems up and running in seconds, making collaboration effortless. New packaging enhances the deployment experience further by allowing provisioning without the need to remove the product from the box. The design also features easy cable routing, reducing installation time. The PanaCast 40 VBS is ideal for quick and easy installations in small rooms, such as Express Install for Microsoft Teams Rooms.

It also ensures a consistent and seamless experience for small meeting spaces by sharing many of the same accessories as its medium room counterpart, the PanaCast 50 VBS. This enables simplified operations for administrators and flexibility across different room sizes, making the PanaCast 40 VBS a versatile and efficient solution for modern office needs. The PanaCast 40 VBS is built to adapt to the evolving needs of modern workplaces, particularly for small Android environments. With its certified compatibility for Android environments, it offers flexibility with Zoom, Microsoft

Teams, and BYOD deployment options. To enhance usability and longevity, the PanaCast 40 VBS includes optional accessories such as a touch controller and a detachable faceplate for easy cleaning. It can also be purchased as a bundle, with both the PanaCast 40 VBS and the touch controller included. Furthermore, seamless integration with ecosystem partners ensures a future-proof investment, complemented by up-to-date manageability through Jabra+ software and the reassurance of Jabra Warranty+ services.

Holger Reisinger, SVP Enterprise Video Business Unit at Jabra said: “The modern workplace is undergoing a transformation, with organizations reimagining how their spaces can drive productivity and collaboration. Small rooms, phone booths and huddle spaces are a cornerstone of this evolution, yet they’ve often been overlooked by traditional video solutions. With the PanaCast 40 VBS, we’re addressing this gap by delivering a flexible, intuitive, and future-proof Android solution that empowers teams to collaborate seamlessly, regardless of room size or platform preference.” Jabra PanaCast 40 VBS will be available from Mid-2025. MSRP: €1,499 / $1,499 / £1,310,00.

PanaCast 40 VBS: key features

• Full-room coverage - 180° field-of-view with dual cameras and 4x digital zoom.

• Superior audio - 1 speaker and 6 microphones, en-

hanced by intelligent audio algorithms for crystal-clear sound and voice pickup

• Streamlined setup - New packaging enables provisioning without removing the product from the box.

• Consistent experience - Shared touch controller and stand with the PanaCast 50 VBS medium room solution for seamless integration across spaces.

• Effortless installation - Simplified cable routing and protection for easy, clean setup.

• Flexible deployment - Compatible with Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and BYOD setups.

• PanaCast 40 VBS is an MDEP-based solution (Microsoft Device Ecosystem Platform), delivering strengthened security and enhanced meetings experiences

• Intelligent Meeting Space enables users to personalize and set virtual meeting space boundaries—perfect for open-plan offices or glass-walled rooms.

• Always up to date - Managed via Jabra+, ensuring the latest features and functionality.

• Reliability -Backed by Jabra Warranty+ for added peace of mind.

• Modern design - Clean, professional aesthetic that fits seamlessly into contemporary workspaces.

• Practical features - Easy-clean cover and ADA compliance for enhanced usability.

Extron and Sennheiser introduce AI-ready enterprise solutions

As AI-powered tools like Microsoft 365 Copilot transform workplace collaboration, clear and reliable audio has become more critical than ever. These tools depend on precise voice capture to effectively transcribe, analyse, and act on meeting content. The TCC M microphone from Sennheiser ensures every participant is heard clearly, regardless of their position in the room, enabling smarter, more productive meetings. “Our ongoing collaboration with Sennheiser and Microsoft continues to deliver new, secure conferencing solutions that are Certified for Microsoft Teams,” says Casey Hall, Chief Marketing Officer for Extron. “We are confident that integrators will appreciate the exceptional quality and flexibility of these solutions.”

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Extron to expand the range of solutions Certified for Microsoft Teams available to integrators,” said Charlie Jones, Sennheiser’s Global Partner Relations Manager. “With the rise of AI-driven tools like Microsoft 365 Copilot, clear, high-quality audio has become more important than ever. Our TeamConnect Ceiling Medium microphone ensures every word is captured with precision from anywhere in the room. Paired with Extron’s exceptional control systems, integrators can deliver smarter, more efficient meeting spaces for today’s workplace.”

“A lot of high value content is created in meeting rooms,” said Albert Kooiman, Senior Director, Microsoft Teams Partner Engineering and Certification and Customer Experience at Microsoft Corp. “By providing

Android-powered video bar designed specifically for small meeting

solutions that are Certified for Microsoft Teams, Extron and Sennheiser can help deliver on critical Teams AI features like speaker attributed meeting transcriptions and meeting recaps, that benefit all users.”

Extron products certified for Microsoft Teams include:

•DMP 64 Plus and DMP 128 Plus Series Digital Audio Matrix Processors

•XPA U 1002 and XPA U 1004 SB Power Amplifiers

•SF 3CT LP and SF 26CT Series Ceiling Speakers

•IPCP Pro xi 250 and IPCP Pro 255Q xi Quad Core Control Processor

Sennheiser products certified for Microsoft Teams include:

•TeamConnect Ceiling Medium Ceiling Microphone array

•TeamConnect Ceiling 2 Ceiling Microphone array

Microsoft Teams Rooms solution capabilities feature:

•Connects the room with a Microsoft Teams meeting

•Exceptional intelligibility with Extron AEC

•Enterprise level routing flexibility and device compatibility with Dante AoIP

•Clear audio playback

•Secure control system integration, including the industry standard 802.1X

•Flexible installation options

•Paintable ceiling elements to blend in with any décor With Extron control for Teams Rooms, a single user interface is all you need to securely control every conferencing, audiovisual, and room function. Together, Extron and Sennheiser deliver complete AV and conferencing control for your enterprise, ensuring your spaces are equipped for the future of collaboration.

Introduction to CDS transparent LCD displays

A transparent display is a type of electronic display technology that allows light to pass through the display panel, making the content on the screen visible while maintaining transparency. Unlike traditional displays that are opaque, transparent displays enable users to see objects or scenes behind the screen.

CDS offers a cutting-edge range of products including see-through touch screens, transparent displays, and clear HD display modules, perfect for modern and innovative applications. Our see-through screens and transparent screens provide unparalleled clarity and interactivity, making them ideal for retail, exhibitions, and high-tech environments. We also specialize in crystal display cases and LCD side panels, ensuring that every display solution is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. Whether you’re looking to enhance your storefront or create an engaging exhibit, our advanced transparent technology and clear HD display modules will elevate your visual presentation to new heights.

LCD Transparent displays include: translucent screens, transparent monitors, see through screens, transparent touch screen technology, and kits from CDS as we have our own range of translucent screens / displays and transparent video screens manufactured at our factory, and as we control the manufacturing, we can not only offer more sizes than anyone else in the world, but also help guarantee stable supply, long term availability LCDs with amazing quality. We replaced the Samsung Transparent Displays / see through Displays and LG Translucent Displays that are no longer available!

The LCD Transparent displays and kits allow you to display information / promotions on the digital display, whilst allowing you to see through it. CDS has increased the use of these see through screens / see through

displays / see through computer screens / clear monitors across the world including touchscreen computer screens combined with the transparent LCD touch screens and Transparent OLED displays.

Transparent technologies

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)

Transparent LCDs use a special type of liquid crystal material that allows light to pass through when an electric current is applied. When the display is turned off, it appears transparent.

OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode)

Transparent OLED displays use organic compounds that emit light when an electric current is applied. These displays are self-emissive, meaning they don’t require a backlight. When the OLED pixels are turned off, the display is transparent.

LED (Light-Emitting Diode)

Transparent LED displays use LEDs that emit light directly. These displays are often constructed using transparent materials, such as glass, with embedded LEDs. When the LEDs are off, the display is transparent.

LED Strips

The use of LED strips in transparent showcases serves several practical and aesthetic purposes, enhancing the visibility and attractiveness of the displayed items. Our LED strip lights are in stock and available to order with any sized Transparent LCD component kit.

Transparent LCD Kit Metal Enclosure

The metal enclosure serves as a protective casing for the mainboard. It shields the delicate electronic components on the motherboard from external factors such as dust, physical damage, and electromagnetic interference. Our enclosures are available to order with our range of transparent displays

CDS Transparent projects

Crystal Display Systems Ltd collaborates with industry-leading companies to deliver cutting-edge solutions that seamlessly integrate transparent display technology into diverse sectors. Leveraging innovative designs and advanced technologies, our projects redefine conventional display experiences, offering transparent showcases, augmented reality applications, and interactive retail displays that captivate audiences. Working hand-in-hand with industry leaders, we bring forth tailored solutions that elevate brand visibility, product presentation, and customer engagement. Our commitment to excellence, coupled with strategic partnerships, ensures the successful implementation of transparent display projects that not only meet but exceed the evolving needs of our esteemed clients.

Applications of transparent technologies

Retail and Advertising:

Transparent displays are used in storefronts and retail environments for interactive advertising. They allow retailers to showcase products while overlaying digital content, creating engaging and immersive displays.

Museum Exhibits and Galleries:

Transparent displays are employed in museums and art galleries to provide additional information, videos, or interactive elements related to exhibits. This enhances the overall visitor experience and educational value.

Automotive heads-up displays (HUDs):

Transparent displays are integrated into automotive HUDs, projecting essential information like speed, navigation, and warnings onto the windshield. This allows drivers to access critical data without taking their eyes off the road.

Smart Windows and Mirrors:

Transparent displays can be incorporated into windows and mirrors, serving as information hubs or interactive surfaces. In smart homes or offices, these displays can show weather updates, calendar events, or act as a virtual assistant.

Aerospace and Defence:

Transparent displays have applications in military aircraft and vehicles, providing pilots and operators with crucial information in real-time while maintaining a clear view of the surroundings.

Medical Visualization:

In medical settings, transparent displays can be used in surgical suites or laboratories. Surgeons can access patient data, medical images, and real-time information without obstructing their view of the operating area.

Trade Shows and Exhibitions:

Transparent displays are utilized in trade show booths and exhibitions to showcase products while integrating digital content. This creates an interactive and visually appealing presentation that attracts attention.

Gaming and Entertainment:

Transparent displays are used in gaming consoles and entertainment systems, providing an immersive gaming experience by overlaying digital elements on the gaming environment.

Corporate Presentations:

Transparent displays are employed in boardrooms and corporate settings for presentations. These displays can showcase data or visuals while allowing participants to see each other and the room.

Hospitality and Restaurants:

Transparent displays can be integrated into restaurant tables or hotel lobbies, providing guests with interactive menus, information about services, or entertainment options.

Vivitek Introduces Flexible, Configurable and Powerful D5000Z Series of Conference Projectors

Vivitek a brand of Delta, the visual display brand for all meeting spaces – announces the D5000Z Series, a range of new era, highly-efficient projectors. The range comprises the DU5051Z (6,300 lumens), the DU5053Z (7,500 lumens) and the DK5153Z (6,200 lumens). Designed for easy installation and boasting rich connectivity options, the D5000Z Series’ powerful performance

belies its compact footprint, delivering outstanding brightness of up to 7,500 lumens. Available in a stylish white or discrete black case, the D5000Z Series is perfect for a wide range of conference applications, from learning and meeting spaces to entertainment venues, museums, galleries, and houses of worship.

Flexible installation options

The user’s need for flexibility lies at the heart of the D5000Z series. The series provides three optional lenses: TR 1.16~1.9 (1.65x), ST1: TR 0.5 and ST2: TR 0.8~1.2 which supports a throw ratio of 0.5 to 1.9:1. This enables it to provide flexible projection distance installation in any challenging environment. Thanks to the horizontal/vertical lens shift, even if the projectors cannot be placed in a middle position, they can still be easily adjusted to provide a optimal ratio image, giving users more choice over where they locate the projector. It also has support for vertical/horizontal keystone and 4-corner geometric adjustment, allowing for virtually unlimited mounting flexibility.

Supports HDBaseT connectivity for even more choice

The D5000Z series provides an optional single board for a HDBaseT™ interface with long-distance signal transmission of high-quality audiovisual content. The HDBaseT™ reduces cabling requirements and installation, saving time and costs, while adding to user flexibility and convenience.

Eye-catching brightness and colour performance

As customers have come to expect from Vivitek projectors, the D5000Z series excels in image quality, thanks to 7,500 lumens of high brightness, and a 3,000,000: 1 contrast ratio. In line with its advanced engineering, it offers the next generation of vivid colour technology to deliver a perfect image display, every time. Easily configurable, this series features two optics lens options (Std. and short Lens) and is 3D-Ready. With support for the 21:9 aspect ratio, and a native 4K resolution

(DK5153Z only) users can enjoy a wide screen display and stunning meeting experience for video conferences, or when visiting entertainment venues, museums, galleries, and houses of worship.

The power of edge blending and warping

To take what’s possible image-wise further still, the DK5153Z offers built-in edge blending and warping capability. It is also possible to combine multiple projectors at the same time to create a seamless single image for various eye-catching simulations.

PJ-Control tool for effortless management of multiple projectors

Vivitek’s PJ-Control software facilitates control of Vivitek projectors. It can be used to manage multiple projectors, helping users control viewing options, settings, and scheduling, and it also allows the adjustment of display features over a network.

High standards of Anti-Dust Protection

With the D5000 Series, the customer’s investment is also protected long term. The optical system, from the laser light source to lens, is completely sealed and rated IP6X for protection again dust ingress, ensuring consistent brightness over time with reliable performance and much reduced need for maintenance.

Commenting on the introduction of the D5000Z Series, Holger Graeff, General Manager, Vivitek EMEA, said: “Conferencing is an establish part of business and educational life in the 21st century. Our view is that those taking part in meetings or lessons should be able to enjoy the calibre of image that’s experienced by entertainment venues, museums, galleries, and houses of worship. The D5000Z has been engineered to cater for such venues, by combining simple installation, multiple connectivity options and outstanding brightness and image quality. Now everyone can enjoy spectactular, professional grade, image quality. Furthermore, the D5000Z series is reliable and easy-to-install and manage, making them a popular choice for a wide range of users.”

Vivitek’s AV solutions are designed to enhance visual communication and collaboration in various settings, such as educational institutions, corporate environments, and retail spaces.

Pricing

All prices are MSRP, Ex VAT [GBP]: DU5051Z-WH £1,990; FYIDU5053Z-WH £2,290; DU5053Z-BK £2,290; DU5053Z-ST1B £2,670; DU5053Z-ST1W £2,670; DU5053Z-ST2B £2,670; DU5053Z-ST2W £2,670; DK5153Z-BK £3,950.

AV News Awards 2025: here are the winners!

Once again, the AVN Awards attracted a record number of nominations and attendees to the presentation ceremony held in the Fire de Barcelona on the 4th February 2025. Winning entries provided a gratifying mix of established AV technologies and services plus a generous helping of new and emerging technologies with new specialists attracted to the proAV space to implement these innovations.

AV Project of the Year (Live Events)

The finalists chosen from a particularly strong field were the following:

•Oracle Red Bull Racing, MK-7 -

•PPDS - Philips Professional Displays

•Samsung Outdoor Signage XHB Series at Shinsegae Flagship Store

From these the winner is:

PPDS - Philips Professional Displays

forOracle Red Bull Racing, MK-7PPDS was chosen to enhance the Oracle Red Bull Rac ing MK-7 event venue in Milton Keynes, installing a re cord-breaking 45.25 x 2.75m freestanding horseshoe

Philips Public LED wall. This installation is the largest of its kind in Europe, providing a stunning centrepiece for the 1,004m² venue and complementing the display of championship-winning F1 cars.

AV Project of the Year (Education)

The finalists were:

•ST Engineering Antycip

•Igloo

•SMART Technologies

And the winner chosen is:

ST Engineering Antycip

ST Engineering Antycip partnered with RSA Cosmos –Konica Minolta to create the Sherwood Observatory planetarium. This £6.5 million project, located on top of a restored Victorian reservoir aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. It combines advanced SkyExplorer software with cutting-edge audiovisual technology to deliver an unparalleled educational experience. With a special focus on marginalised communities, the facility offers educational outreach programs, encouraging young people to explore careers in STEM fields. The facility aims to become a significant STEM education hub, offering students and visitors an

immersive journey from historical engineering feats to modern space science.

AV Manufacturer/Developer of the Year

Finalists included

•Jabra

•LED Studio

•I3 Connect

From these strong finalists, the winner is:

Jabra

Jabra builds on over 150 years of pioneering work and develops and manufactures professional headsets, speakerphones, video conferencing solutions and integrated tools for offices, contact centres and collaborative meetings to help professionals work more productively from anywhere. In challenging, diverse market conditions, Jabra defended its market leadership and delivered strong business results through innovation and product development, driving new revenue opportunities for Jabra and channel partners, and launching new solutions to solve challenges for end customers.

Highlights included:

•350% increase in PanaCast 50 Room System revenue.

•433% increase in PanaCast 50 Video Bar System revenue.

•50% growth in PanaCast sales in the public sector.

•80% of Fortune 500 companies use Jabra, with new clients like Sky, JP Morgan, and NHS Greater Manchester.

AI Innovation of the Year

Our panel of finalists included:

•Jetbuilt

•Naostage K SYSTEM

From these, the winner is:

Naostage for its K SYSTEM Naostage’s K SYSTEM i

he world’s first fully automated, beaconless tracking Tsolution. Designed to integrate seamlessly with third-party AV systems, it provides real-time, high-precision tracking without the need for physical tracking devices. The K SYSTEM uses AI-driven, beaconless tracking to synchronise audiovisual effects with on-stage movements. It consists of:

•KAPTA: A multi-spectral camera that scans the stage in 3D to capture movements in real time.

•KORE: An AI-powered server that processes the data, ensuring high-precision tracking.

•KRATOS: A user-friendly interface for technicians to control the system and integrate with third-party setups.

Collaboration Innovation of the Year

The finalists were:

MAXHUB for the XBoard V7 Series Cisco for its AI supported conferencing solution L-Acoustics and d&b audiotechnik (Avnu Alliance)

And our winner is:

Cisco AI supported conferencing solution

Cisco’s purpose is to power an inclusive future for all by helping our customers reimagine their applications, power hybrid work, secure their enterprise, transform their infrastructure, and meet their sustainability goals. The Ceiling Microphone Pro: The industry’s first conferencing microphone with AI adaptive beamforming, using 64 microphone elements to capture clear, high-fidelity voice while rejecting noise, ensuring inclusive meetings for both in-room and remote participants. The Spatial Awareness features combine digital signal processing with visual AI to track people’s locations in re-

al-time, enabling precise speech capture and speaker tracking—unique in the conferencing space. The solution connects via IP with zero-touch, automatic beam configuration, eliminating the need for external DSP boxes and simplifying AV setup at scale.

AV Distributor of the Year

Finalists include:

TD SYNNEX Maverick

Exertis AV

Our winner is:

Exertis AV

The company achieved record sales in FY23, continuing growth in FY24 despite challenging market conditions. Exertis now offers exclusive credit lines and provide over £100k of demonstration stock to partners. It also supports customers with professional services, including consultancy, design and engineering assis-

tance. Exertis AV is committed to cultural change, promoting diversity through initiatives like EmpowHER and “Pride in Progress.” The company also values charity, donating to local causes and encouraging staff participation in fundraising activities. Their sustainability efforts include a 20% reduction in emissions, transitioning 83% of their fleet to electric vehicles, and investing in renewable energy.

Digital Signage Innovation of the Year

Finalists in this very popular category included:

Samsung Electronics for its Transparent Micro LED

Philips Signage 3000 EcoDesign Series

SiliconCore’s Mobile All-In-One LED Display

The winner of this category is:

Samsung Electronics for its Transparent Micro LED

Known for pioneering innovations, Samsung integrates cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and usability in its solutions. Its Transparent Micro LED display is revolutionising industries like retail, transportation, and museums. Offering 60% transparency, 600-nit brightness, and a 100,000-hour lifespan, it surpasses traditional OLED screens in clarity, durability, and energy efficiency. Samsung continues to set benchmarks, shaping the future of digital displays with customer-focused innovations. Transparent Micro LED enhances experiences in subway systems, retail spaces, and museums, offering dynamic content integration into physical environments. With a 100,000-hour lifespan and versatile installation options, the Transparent Micro LED offers long-lasting performance and easy videowall integration.

AV Project of the Year Audio

Our next category is for which we felt that there was just one outstanding nomination and therefore an automatic winner namely:

Powersoft

Powersoft’s story begins in 1995 in a small kitchen in Florence, when Luca Lastrucci, Claudio Lastrucci and their childhood friend Antonio Peruch, drawing on their passion for music and technology, developed the company’s first project: a new Class-D amplifier that, for the first time in the pro-audio industry, was able to reliably, consistently deliver high power levels. In 2025, the company celebrates 30 years as creators of the world’s finest audio technology, still proudly made in Italy. Since its founding, Powersoft has revolutionised the world of audio

AWARDS WINNERS

The finalists address one of the outstanding issues of the last year, sustainability. The finalists in the category

Sustainability Innovation of the Year were:

•Exertis AV

•Philips Signage 3000 EcoDesign Series

•SMART Technologies

Our winner is:

Exertis AV

Exertis AV sets the standard, investing in a sustainable future. Exertis’ dedication to sustainability is not merely a current endeavour, but commitment to ongoing, lasting change. Since forming a dedicated Sustainability Team in 2022, we achieved key milestones such as 20% reduction in Scope 1 emissions by 2023 and significant progress toward net zero by 2050. Our initiatives include renewable energy adoption, transitioning 83% of our fleet to EVs, and adopting sustainable packaging practices. Through targeted investments and employee engagement, such as our Sustainability Champions programme, Exertis AV showcases its role in driving measurable environmental progress while inspiring industry-wide change.

Next, we move on to the personal and organisation Awards starting with:

Reseller/Integrator of the Year

The finalists in this category were:

Project Audio Visual

Samsung Electronics Samsung Electronics

Kinly

Our clear winner this year here is:

Kinly

Kinly is Europe’s leading pro audio-visual specialist and collaboration expert, focusing on large, complex, business-critical use cases. Kinly offers productivity wherever the work happens – because great things happen when people work together. The company provides dedicated expertise in planning, supplying, integrating and managing AV systems integration and remote collaboration services. Kinly is a leading partner with the world’s top vendors to deliver the best choice of solutions for public and private sector businesses. The company is a globally recognised businesses relying on us for secure and flexible meeting and collaboration services. Kinly is an end-to-end provider of workspace transformation services with worldwide presence

Finally, we turn to the personal awards, starting with the:

AV Marketing/PR Professional of the Year

•Peerless-AV Marketing Team

•Smart Technologies Marketing Team

•Barnaby Jamieson of The Inside Story

Our winner here is the:

Peerless-AV Marketing Team

This team of three packs a punch. Masters in the art of doing more with less, the team combines a varied, complementary skillset delivering marketing campaigns, events and product launches that rival the specialist services of a full-scale digital marketing agency. Peerless-AV is a powerful brand with a difference: an accessory brand with the ability to excite and unite the AV market through thoroughly executed partner events that sponsors and exhibitors want to return to and invest in year on year because of the positive brand association,

compelling assets and communications might that guarantee them visibility across all marketing channels. Next, we turn to the hotly contested:

AV Sales Professional of the Year Finalists included:

•Lisa Yates of BenQ

•Dan Clarke of Mentor Distribution

•Nick Stanciffe, of TD Synnex

By almost universal acclaim. our winner here is:

Lisa Yates of BenQ

With over 17 years of experience in the AV industry, Lisa joined BenQ in 2017 as a Sales Manager. Her passion, commitment and drive has led to several promotions over the years and she recently stepped up into the role of Sales Director, managing a team of 10+ sales professionals based across the UK. In her time at BenQ, she

has broken several sales records and has built a strong, high-performing team. Her sales expertise and strong leadership skills will both be crucial to BenQ’s continued growth in years to come.

Finally, we some to the last Personal Award, and one that we think is particularly important:

AV Support Professional of the Year

•Mirza Mohibulla Baig of BeWunder

•BenQ Support Team

•TD Synnex Support

And our winner is Mirza Mohibulla Baig of BeWunder.

She says: “Currently I am the Operations Manager in BeWunder looking after the Digital Art Museum, Jeddah. Additionally, I am involved in developing the Spatial Experience Division by actively generating Leads in Saudi Arabia. In my past 5 months, I have been able to get our company involved in 4 premium project one of which is valued at more than 150 million SAR. Before this, I was working in Samir Group as a Pre-Sales Engineer and was promoted as an Engineering Manager for the same. I started my career in AV 6 years back and had been recognized immensely for my contributions. In closing, many thanks to all of those who took the time to enter, all of those who attended the presentation ceremony and last, but very far from least, our Award sponsors who make all of this possible.

Colt’s Network-as-a-Service enables first live stream of Berlinale

Colt Technology Services (Colt) has announced that the 75th Berlin International Film Festival will live stream its opening gala event for the first time to cinemas in seven cities across Germany outside Berlin, using Colt’s Network as a Service (NaaS) solution. Colt Digital Cinema has been a partner of the Berlinale for over 15 years – and enables the broadcast with its Dedicated Internet Access service based on its Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) solution.

In cinemas in Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Cologne, Leipzig, Munich and Stuttgart, as well as in Berlin, film enthusiasts can watch the opening gala, see the hosted international jury and watch actor Tilda Swinton receive Berlinale’s prestigious Honorary Golden Bear in a live broadcast. A screening of the opening film “The Light”, directed by Tom Tykwer and delivered by Berlin-based film distribution company X Verleih, marks the occasion.

The IT team at Berlinale is utilising the intuitive user interface of Colt’s On Demand Network as a Service solution, which empowers companies to control and adjust their required bandwidth in real time. Capacity can be dialled up and reduced when needed – perfect for an event that experiences huge spikes of data requirements in short bursts of time. “The Berlinale is constantly evolving and so are its technological requirements, so we are very happy to rely on Colt’s expertise for over 15 years,” explains Ove Sander, Technical Director Digital Cinema of the Berlinale.

“Network-as-a-Service is the perfect technology for the Berlinale to present itself live to film fans in cinemas outside of Berlin and expand the reach of the festival. For us, this is an excellent example of the ‘extraordinary connections’ that we create with our network. This new major step for the Berlinale is proof of how the common goal of a high-quality customer experience and mutual trust in the partner’s know-how and experience can be translated into an unforgettable experience. We are proud of having been able to work with Berlinale time

and time again for so many years,” says Roxana Dobrota, Country Manager of Colt Germany.

Colt’s Network-as-a-Service offering at the Berlinale includes:

• Providing a fibre optic network with around 200 fibre kilometres for the festival.

• Two 10 Gbit/s lines connect the Colt network node with the Berlinale Film Office at Potsdamer Platz.

• Connecting the festival’s main venues via a starshaped network of 10 Gbit/s and 1 Gbit/s lines to the network node.

• Transmitting a petabyte of data over the course of the event

• Converting all films, regardless of format, into a standardised digital format to be stored on the Berlinale servers.

• Allowing film studios to upload their work directly to the Berlinale servers via a 10-gigabit Internet connection. This saves valuable time too, as it only takes 20 minutes for a package of film data to travel from Hollywood to Berlin.

Christie Inspire projectors transform BYD’s vehicle museum

Christie has announced that its Inspire Series 1DLP laser projectors are delivering stunning, immersive experiences at electric automaker BYD’s new energy vehicle museum in Zhengzhou, the first of its kind in China. Known as BYD Zhengzhou Di Space, the 15,000-square-metre (161,000-square-foot) complex offers a holistic exploration of the power and artistry of new energy vehicles. Spanning four floors with over 300 exhibits, visitors are guided through interactive visual narratives that merge science, technology, and innovation, providing a comprehensive view of BYD’s pioneering automotive vision and the potential of new energy for future mobility.

A total of 26 Christie DWU860-iS laser projectors are at the heart of Di Space’s dynamic visuals, delivering vibrant, lifelike imagery that enchants visitors in each themed area. Christie’s trusted partner Jianye Display installed and commissioned the projectors, which illuminate the facility with attractive content, from the striking feature wall on the first floor to the expansive “rib-

bon space”, exhibition hall, and detailed displays on the second floor. “Our choice of the Christie Inspire Series projectors for Di Space is driven by their exceptional quality and reliability,” says Yong Hong, project manager at Jianye Display. “These 8,500-lumen projectors consistently deliver astonishingly vivid visuals that delight and engage visitors in every exhibit. With its robust design, quiet operation, and reliable, virtually maintenance-free performance, the Inspire Series empowers us to create an unforgettable, immersive experience throughout this new energy vehicle museum.”

April Qin, senior sales director for China, Enterprise at Christie, adds, “BYD’s vision for Di Space aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering impactful visual experiences that educate and inspire. We’re proud that the Inspire Series laser projectors are contributing to such a unique and engaging space where visitors can experience the potential of new energy vehicles firsthand. Christie’s technology brings BYD’s mission to life with every remarkable display.”

The visual displays across the facility vary in size, with the largest measuring an impressive 14 metres by 4 metres (46 feet by 13 feet) and smaller exhibits at 1.6 metres by 1.6 metres (5.2 feet by 5.2 feet). This variety creates a fascinating array of experiences for visitors. According to Hong, one of the project’s highlights was navigating site-specific challenges, such as manually aligning projection angles to accommodate intricate design details. These efforts were aimed at optimising the displays’ impact, ultimately enhancing visitors’ knowledge and confidence in science and technology, while contributing to the goal of a robust, sustainable automotive future.

The Christie Inspire Series projectors deliver WUXGA or 4K UHD resolution and produce up to 9,600 lumens of brightness, making them ideal for small-to-mid-size environments. Equipped with 1.25-2.0:1 fixed motorised zoom lens, an IP5X dust-resistant optical engine, and 24/7 performance, the Inspire Series projectors comprising the DWU760-iS, DWU860-iS, DWU960-iS, DWU960ST-iS, and 4K860-iS models are highly regarded for their ability to create immersive and amazing experiences that delight guests.

Meyer Sound and Dolby Atmos at Grimstad Kulturhus

Grimstad Kulturhus is the cultural centre at the heart of a beautiful Norwegian coastal town. It has significantly expanded its audio capabilities with a groundbreaking Meyer Sound installation that integrates the Constellation acoustic system and a Dolby Atmos cinema system in a single sound system. This installation, which elevates the capabilities of Grimstad Kulturhus’ Pan Theatre cinema and live performance space, is the first in Europe to employ the new generation of Constellation alongside Meyer Sound’s NADIA integrated digital audio platform. This combination leverages the latest advancements in digital signal processing to enhance

system power, flexibility, and scalability, enabling more discrete zones for greater resolution and more nuanced adaptability.

Central to the installation’s versatility is a sophisticated system of custom-designed mechanical speaker mounts developed by the project integrator, Lillehammer Tekniske Byrå (LTB), who have collaborated with Meyer Sound on several Constellation installs throughout Norway. These mounts enable the venue’s loudspeakers to instantly transform from Constellation active acoustic enhancement to theatrical Dolby Atmos presentation. The system is also capable of multichannel immersive surround and special effects, controlled by Meyer Sound’s Spacemap Go spatial sound design and mixing tool.

Rolf Meyer Tallaksen, Grimstad Kulturhus’ manager, says he was interested in exploring the capabilities of Constellation to enhance concert performances of all genres. “As a musician, I’m thinking about having a good room for making different types of music. I checked out Constellation and some other acoustic systems, but when I heard Constellation, I said, ‘Yes, this is it.’” When it came to the cinematic component, Tallaksen could have taken the traditional route and installed a separate Dolby Atmos-certified system but instead opted for a bolder approach. “I started thinking, why can’t we use the same loudspeakers for Constellation and build one system for both things? Many people said, ‘No, no, no. It will not work.’ But I said, ‘Yes, I want to try that.’ A colleague told me about the Constellation, which is the best system available for live performances, and Meyer Sound will guarantee that it will work.”

“To meet the speaker-aiming specification for both Atmos and Constellation, it was clear from the start that LTB had to develop a solution with motorized pan/tilt speaker mounts to be able to switch between the two positions at the touch of a button,” explains Børre Linberg. “The R&D team within LTB rose to the challenge and quickly developed a tailor-made solution.” The team built custom mounts for 30 speakers, each capable of rotating the speaker along two rotational axes.

The Meyer Sound Constellation installation, designed by the Meyer Sound Constellation team in collaboration with LTB, comprises 60 loudspeakers and 24 microphones. Speakers include four MM-4XP miniature self-powered loudspeakers, 16 UP-4slim ultracompact installation loudspeakers, 26 HMS-5 cinema surround loudspeakers, four HMS-10 cinema surround loudspeakers, and 10 MM-10 miniature subwoofers. The cinema system, which can be configured for Dolby Atmos and 5.1 or 7.1-channel surround, includes three ULTRA-X40 compact point source loudspeakers, three 750-LFC low-frequency control elements, two USW210P compact narrow subwoofers, and six X-400C compact cinema subwoofers.

Both system configurations are managed by a NADIA core processor along with a Galileo GALAXY Network Platform. The room, which seats 76 for cinema and 100 for live events, features an expansive LED wall used as a backdrop for performances and conferences; a traditional projector screen lowers from the ceiling for movie

screenings.

The multitasking system is complex in design but effortless to operate. “We have a Crestron panel, where everything is programmed,” Tallaksen explains. “It’s easy to use for everybody. We have one on the wall and one on the front of house, and one iPad that you can give to the musicians.” The collaboration between Meyer Sound, LTB, and Grimstad Kulturhus not only vastly expands the centre’s capabilities, it underscores a regional movement toward integrating cutting-edge technology in cultural venues. “Norway has ten venues that use the Constellation system, which, when considering the country’s population of just around five million, speaks clearly to the successful nature of the cooperation between LTB and Meyer Sound,” says Linberg.

Since its premiere just before the holiday season, the Dolby Atmos system has captivated moviegoers with its rich, dynamic sound. “People who have been to the cinema are amazed by the sound,” Tallaksen says. “It’s clear. There’s bottom in it, the bass.” Tallaksen has demonstrated the venue’s capabilities for local musicians during concert rehearsals. “I have a choir that I’m conducting; it’s 45 singers. And they love the room,” he says. “When we sing classical a cappella stuff, it’s just ‘wow,’ everywhere.” The excitement culminated with a grand opening with a classical concert at the end of January, kicking off a three-week winter classical festival poised to showcase the venue’s sonic transformation. With its unique ability to shift seamlessly between configurations for diverse audio experiences, Grimstad

Kulturhus exemplifies the future of sound technology in cultural venues. “This Kulturhus is one of the bestequipped theatres that we’ve done,” says John Pellowe, Meyer Sound’s project director, Constellation Systems. “It can multitask when it comes to sound in a big way.”

Powersoft revamps audio in Yebisu Brewery

Powersoft’s Mezzo and Dynamic Music Distribution (DMD) are at the heart of a sound system delivering three zones of high-quality audio in Yebisu Brewery Tokyo, a historical brewery and museum located in Tokyo, Japan. Once a quiet museum, the new sound system overhaul and installation of the brewing facility have transformed it into a vibrant, multi-zone audio experience with beer tastings in the taproom, exhibitions and a shop for visitors to find the perfect stout souvenirs. Yebisu Brewery Tokyo’s audio revamp was driven by the need to shift its image from “classic” into a lighter and more playful one, aligning with the changing taste of the modern audience. “We wanted to create a vibrant atmosphere that would change the YEBISU beer’s previous reputation,” says Takako Okii, marketing division deputy manager from Sapporo Breweries. “We also needed to get rid of the echo issues and we believe that high-quality sound was crucial in delivering an exciting and memorable experience. This is why we needed a

new music system,” she adds.

Tasked with this challenge was Mood Media Japan, which undertook the audio overhaul in the entire area. “We installed the system in three zones, with each area playing a different sound,” says Yamato Shibasaki, music designer from Mood Media Japan Inc. “We designed it in a way that minimises the sound from overlapping.”

Stepping into the brewery, the visitors are welcomed by the Yebisu Beer theme song, “The Third Man Theme” by Anton Karas, played from two different sources to draw attention to the centre of the facility and convey the message of brand’s diversity. Shibasaki explains that using two different music sources highlights the many ways a single piece of music can be experienced. In the museum area, soft background music allows visitors to focus on the exhibition and feel the atmosphere of Yebisu Beer. In contrast, the taproom features livelier music, creating a dynamic transition between the brewery’s history and its future.

“It was a very interesting project for us,” states Shibasaki. “The brewery’s open layout posed acoustic challenges, particularly with high ceilings and minimal partitions.” To overcome this challenge, Mood MediaJapan adjusted speaker positions and utilised the DSP capabilities of a Powersoft’s Mezzo amplifier to finetune sound quality. “We changed the speaker position to lower and adjusted the direction and used the DSP on Mezzo to regulate the EQ.” The build-in delay function on Mezzo further synchronised audio across the entrance and the museum, eliminating any perception of sound lag between the zones.

Haruka Murayama, Powersoft’s market development manager for Japan, highlights why Mezzo was the ideal choice for the brewery’s needs: “Mezzo is designed for environments that require both flexibility and reliability in a compact form. It is perfect for a complex, space-constrained installation like Yebisu Brewery, delivering premium sound without overwhelming the spaces.”

In addition to Mezzo’s advanced sound management, Powersoft’s Dynamic Music Distribution (DMD) offered significant flexibility. DMD offers system integrators the ability to scale inputs and zones conveniently with dynamic routing capabilities embedded in its amplifier platforms. This makes it simpler to share music between different zones independently from the source location without the need of a centralised DSP. According to Shibasaki, DMD allowed him to conveniently design the sound system, as he was able to define the core equipment early in the process, simplifying budgeting and future adjustments. “We could modify the number of sources and zones without reworking the wiring or adding extra hardware,” he adds. The compact design of Mezzo amplifiers also addressed practical controls. Shibasaki explains: “The rack room is small with limited airflow and Mezzo’s compact size, multi-channel capabilities, and low heat emission made it the perfect solution.”

The impact of the new sound system has been positive: “We’re extremely satisfied with the audio quality and do not need to have any concerns about the reverberation.

The spacious rooms are comfortable, allowing visitors to focus on their experience,” concludes Okii. “Sound is now an integral part of our visitor experience and it’s something the visitors will remember long after they leave, connecting them emotionally to YEBISU beer.”

Alfalite screens power Spain’s largest virtual production studio

Alfalite has announced that its Modularpix Pro VP XR solution is the core technology behind the new Coruña Immersive Studio (CEI), located in A Coruña (Galicia) and recognised as Spain’s largest virtual production studio. The facility features a striking 28 x 6-meter LED wall, a 100-square-meter ceiling screen, and two side LED totems, incorporating a total of 1,152 Alfalite VP XR LED panels. The CEI is built on a 2,539-square-meter site, with 750 square meters dedicated to the studio, within A Coruña’s Cidade das TIC technology hub. It consists of two interconnected buildings designed to support high-end virtual productions. The project was developed in collaboration with Telefónica Servicios Audiovisuales (TSA) and Tangram Solutions, two strategic partners of Alfalite that played a key role in integrating the necessary technology to ensure the studio’s success. The investment was co-financed by the A Coruña Provincial Council and the Government

of Spain through the Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan. The centrepiece of the studio is a 28 x 6-meter semicircular LED wall made up of 672 Alfalite Modularpix Pro VP XR panels with a 1.9 mm pixel pitch and a total resolution of 14,336 x 3,072 pixels. This main display is complemented by a 100-square-meter ceiling screen featuring Alfalite Modularpix Pro 3.9 HB VP XR panels and two movable side LED totems, each measuring 2.5 x 4 meters and equipped with Alfalite Modularpix Pro 2.6 VP XR modules. These side screens enhance lighting and reflections for more immersive productions.

In total, the studio integrates 1,152 Alfalite VP XR LED panels, enabling filmmakers and advertisers to create immersive, dynamic, and hyper-realistic environments with depth and perspective. These screens faithfully reproduce any real or fictional location while seamlessly interacting with physical elements in real time. The

CEI’s advanced technology setup is further enhanced by Pixotope’s 3D tracking solution, ARRI Alexa cameras, Canon lenses, Novastar MX Series processors, and a Blackmagic video matrix, among other solutions, delivering a top-tier visual experience. “We are proud to be part of this project, which is set to become one of Europe’s leading audiovisual hubs for virtual production in film and television,” said Luis Garrido, executive director of Alfalite. “We extend our gratitude to our partners Telefónica Servicios Audiovisuales and Tangram Solutions, who have led this monumental project and trusted our technology to meet the highest industry standards.”

Alfalite’s VP XR technology was selected for its reliability, precision, and ability to meet the demanding requirements of virtual production environments, where every detail is crucial. These LED panels are specifically designed for virtual production ecosystems, allowing real-time interaction with cameras and graphics servers while offering outstanding functionality and a colour space that enhances the creativity of filmmakers and cinematographers. “With our Modularpix Pro VP XR solution, the CEI benefits from the best luminance and colour spectrum available in high-resolution LED panels, establishing it as a benchmark for the most demanding audiovisual productions,” added Garrido.

Alfalite has announced that its Modularpix Pro VP XR solution is the core technology behind the new Coruña Immersive Studio (CEI).

Carl Gillert elected CFO of Calabrio

Calabrio has announced the appointment of Carl Gillert as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). In this role, Gillert will oversee the company’s global finance and accounting functions, as well as its Enterprise Digital Services (EDS) operations, to further accelerate growth and operational efficiency. With over 20 years of experience in private equity-backed technology companies, Gillert possesses significant expertise in operational and commercial finance, financial planning, and analysis (FP&A), pricing, revenue operations, Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A), accounting, and treasury management. He brings a proven track record of driving strategic transformation and business scalability through collaboration with key stakeholders.

Before joining Calabrio, Gillert served as CFO of Litera, where he played a critical role in managing the company’s financial health and executing its Value Creation Plan. Prior to that, he was at Exostar, a cybersecurity and secure collaboration firm backed by Thoma Bravo, where he led finance initiatives that enhanced growth and solidified Exostar’s position as a leading SaaS provider. “We are thrilled to welcome Carl to the team,” said Dave Rhodes, CEO of Calabrio. “His expertise in financial strategy, operational excellence, and value creation will be instrumental as we accelerate our innovation and growth. With his leadership, we will continue driving productivity, reducing attrition, and helping organisations provide better service and sales - ultimately empowering them to optimise workforce performance with the best solutions in the industry.”

BCS makes senior appointment

BCS, the specialist services provider to the digital infrastructure industry, has appointed Charlie Bruinvels to head up and develop its new Land Intelligence Service which will provide clients with valuable, detailed information about potential data centre sites across the globe. It is designed to speed up the site selection process, facilitating quicker, easier and more robust development. Charlie joins BCS from Colliers where he spent

of Carl Gillert as Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

the past 6 years working in environmental consultancy, latterly as Director of Environmental Technical Services. Working closely with both existing and new clients within the data centre, property and investor sectors as well as other landowners, Charlie and his team will provide development assessments and feasibility appraisals looking at a range of elements including sustainability, power, geology and geotechnical as well as ecological, social and climate change impact. Opportunities will be assessed both on a speculative basis as well as in response to specific client requirements. A key focus will be on ensuring that the regional planning requirements can be met with BCS in some cases providing a comprehensive pre-planning pack and/or gaining planning permission.

Commenting on his appointment Chris Coward, Director of Project Management at BCS, said: ‘This latest new service will build on our current pre-construction work by providing vital intelligence on potential development opportunities. Charlie’s skills and expertise in this area will add value to the service we provide our clients, and we are excited to welcome him to the team.” Charlie Bruinvels said: “The data centre sector is both exciting and challenging with high demand and stringent planning regulations. The ability to deliver the capacity needed with carbon net positive facilities is key to the future of the sector and this service will enable fast data driven decisions.”

Calabrio has announced the appointment

Sphere Entertainment names Glenn Derry EVP MSG Ventures

Sphere Entertainment Co. has announced that Glenn Derry, an Academy Award winning technologist with over 30 years of industry-defining entertainment technology experience, has joined the Company as Executive Vice President of MSG Ventures. In this role, Derry will oversee a wide range of technology initiatives across MSG Ventures, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sphere Entertainment focused on developing advanced technologies for live entertainment. MSG Ventures also supports Sphere Studios, the immersive content studio dedicated to creating multi-sensory entertainment experiences exclusively for Sphere, and the Sphere platform overall, including future Sphere venues.

Derry will work across the organisation to deploy both new and existing technologies that enhance Sphere’s live entertainment and experiential content, which has been redefining immersive experiences since the first Sphere opened in Las Vegas in September 2023. He will be based at Sphere Studios in Burbank, and report to Jim Dolan, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Sphere Entertainment. “Our vision for Sphere was to combine cutting-edge technologies with storytelling – bringing audiences together to share in experiences they cannot experience anywhere else,” said Mr. Dolan. “Glenn is a creative technologist whose work has

had a significant impact on the entertainment industry. His expertise will be an asset to Sphere as we continue to build on this next generation entertainment medium and reinforce our position at the forefront of immersive experiences.”

“Throughout my career I have focused on developing technologies in service of creative visions that expand the possibilities of entertainment, and there is no better opportunity to continue that work than at Sphere,” said Mr. Derry. “Sphere sets a new standard for immersive experiences, and together with my colleagues across the organization we look forward to creating new tools and experiences that push creative boundaries and drive innovation across the industry.”

As one of Hollywood’s leading technological innovators, Derry brings to Sphere extensive experience from various facets of the film and gaming industry, where he is credited with introducing the concept of “virtual production.” He joins Sphere Entertainment from AGBO, an Academy Award winning independent film, television, and gaming studio, where he served as President of Production Technology. In this role, he helped lead the establishment of AGBO’s innovative virtual production and animation pipelines that service transmedia explorations of the company’s intellectual property. Pri-

or to joining AGBO Derry served as Vice President of Visual Effects at 20th Century Fox Studios following the acquisition of Technoprops, an R&D firm specialising in motion capture and emerging visual production technology. Derry was the founder and CEO of Technoprops, and over nearly 20 years he built the company into a force recognised for redefining creative and technical innovation in the film industry. Among Technoprops’ achievements was developing a state-of-the-art head-mounted camera system widely adopted for capturing an actor’s facial movements. Derry and his team received an Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Technical Achievement Award for the groundbreaking design and engineering of this system. Over the course of his tenure at Technoprops, Derry was involved in some of the most technically ambitious projects in film and video games, including Avatar, Star Wars: Rogue One, Avengers – Age of Ultron, Zero Dark Thirty, The Jungle Book, Minority Report, and Halo 4, among many notable others. Derry began his career in the film industry creating practical effects, including advanced puppets for movies, before transitioning into his work in visual effects and virtual production.

PCD announces Hal Truax as New Vice President

PCD Audio & Video announces a significant leadership transition as longtime Vice President Bill Graham retires, passing the torch to industry veteran Hal Truax as the company’s new Vice President. This transition marks a full-circle moment for Graham and Truax, whose professional relationship spans over 30 years. Graham, a trusted mentor and leader in the AV industry, has played a pivotal role in shaping Truax’s career trajectory since the 1980s. His guidance and expertise have been instrumental in PCD’s growth, cementing its reputation as the premier AV integrator serving Northern California.

“As I step into retirement, I take great pride in seeing Hal Truax continue the journey we started decades ago,” said Bill Graham. “His leadership, strategic vision, and passion for the industry make him the ideal choice to lead PCD into its next chapter. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Hal throughout the years, and I’ve seen firsthand his ability to build strong relationships, drive business growth, and foster innovation. He truly understands the core values that have made PCD successful, and I have no doubt that he will carry them forward while taking the company to new heights.”

PCD President John Rudolph echoed Graham’s confidence in the leadership transition. “I have full confidence that under Hal’s direction, PCD will continue to thrive and set new benchmarks in AV excellence,” said Rudolph. “Hal is not only a respected industry veteran but also someone who deeply understands PCD’s mission and values. His ability to combine technical expertise with a customer-first approach makes him the perfect fit to drive our company forward. We are excited for this next chapter and know that his leadership will bring

fresh opportunities and innovation to our team and clients alike.”

With more than three decades of experience in the Pro AV industry, Truax has built a reputation for driving business growth, fostering strong client relationships, and implementing cutting-edge AV solutions. Prior to joining PCD, he held leadership roles where he successfully led sales and marketing initiatives, expanded market presence, and delivered innovative AV integrations. “I am honored to step into the role of Vice President at PCD and continue the legacy that Bill and the team have built,” said Truax. “PCD’s commitment to delivering best-in-class AV solutions and customer-focused service aligns perfectly with my vision for the future. Because of Bill’s mentoring and guidance over the years, I believe in paying it forward. I look forward to working with this talented team to further expand our reach and impact in the industry.”

PCD has long been recognized for its expertise in AV system design, installation, and training, serving clients across a wide range of industries, including performing arts centers, schools, government facilities, hospitality, and corporate environments. With Truax at the helm, the company is poised for continued innovation and growth as it strengthens its position as a trusted AV integration partner.

PCD Audio & Video announces a significant leadership transition as longtime Vice President Bill Graham retires, passing the torch to industry veteran Hal Truax as the company’s new Vice President.

NAB Show spotlights the future of broadcast technology

NAB Show is the preeminent conference and exhibition driving the evolution of broadcast, media and entertainment, held April 5-9, 2025 (Exhibits April 6-9) in Las Vegas. Produced by the National Association of Broadcasters, NAB Show is the ultimate marketplace for next-generation technology inspiring superior audio and video experiences. From creation to consumption, across multiple platforms, NAB Show is where global visionaries convene to bring content to life in new and exciting ways. Register for NAB Show held April 5-9, 2025 (Exhibits April 6-9) at the Las Vegas Convention Centre.

NAB Show’s Broadcast Engineering and IT (BEIT) Conference is where the future of broadcast technology takes shape, bringing together industry leaders to explore cutting-edge advancements — emphasizing the evolution of technology across radio, television, digital and the broader media and IT ecosystem. New this year, NAB Show and Public Media Venture Group (PMVG) have partnered to present TechConnect ’25, a premier technology education conference targeting public media professionals. TechConnect ’25 is April 4 2025 at the Las Vegas Convention Centre (LVCC). “Bringing TechConnect to NAB Show creates an unparalleled opportunity for public media technologists to engage with the broader broadcast and media technology ecosystem,” said John Clark, senior vice president, Emerging Technology, NAB. “This collaboration not only strengthens NAB

Show’s commitment to the future of content delivery and infrastructure, but it also provides public media professionals with direct access to the latest innovations.”

This innovation marks the first time a fully integrated public media technology training conference is being hosted in partnership with NAB Show, building on decades of independently produced events targeting the public TV technology sector. “This partnership is a game-changer for public media technologists and NAB Show alike, combining world-class programming with convenience and efficiency for both the hosts and attendees of TechConnect,” said Marc Hand, CEO of PMVG. “NAB Show is a world-class event, and we look forward to TechConnect ’25 being the first of many opportunities to partner on providing technology education for the unique and critical U.S. public media industry.”

TechConnect ’25 tackles numerous technology issues of interest to public media professionals, such as ATSC 3.0 transition options, interactive media for public TV audiences, artificial intelligence-assisted content archiving, proper balancing of streaming and broadcast content delivery, advanced emergency alerting, facility robustness and security, enhanced content accessibility, improved operational efficiency, optimal use of cloudbased services, datacasting and more.

As a technology education partner with NAB Show, PMVG is also presenting during the BEIT (Broadcast Engineering and IT Conference) Conference. There are more than six-dozen sessions designed for broadcast engineers and technologists, media technology managers, equipment manufacturers and R&D engineers.

Celebrating five years of the AV Showcase!

Peerless-AV’s landmark event returns to Lord’s on 13-14 May 2025

The must-attend event for AV professionals returns to London this May with even more innovation, insights and networking opportunities

technology pioneer Peerless-AV will celebrate a fifth year at Lord’s Cricket Ground as the 2025 AV Showcase is announced to take place Tuesday 13th and Wednesday 14th May 2025.

Back by popular demand, after increased exhibition space and visitor numbers in 2024, the AV Showcase will once again welcome end users, channel partners and consultants from across the AV industry for a twoday event of technology demonstrations, product launches, networking and thought leadership.

Keith Dutch, Managing Director - EMEA, Peerless-AV, announced the 2025 dates in front of the iconic Lord’s Media Centre. Watch here. “The size and scale our AV Showcase have now reached in its fifth year is one we couldn’t have anticipated in 2020 when we completed the highly successful inaugural event. We have a lot to announce over the coming weeks! Mark your calendars for 13-14 May…the countdown begins.”

Each year, Peerless-AV raises the bar and this year’s AV Showcase will continue to exceed expectations. On the expanded show floor, there will be 50+ brands keen to engage visitors with speciality prod¬ucts in the areas of audio, LCD/LED displays, projection, workplace technology, signal processing, digital signage, AVoIP, video signal management and more.

Thought leadership and the exchange of knowledge has been a fundamental element running in parallel to the exhibition. For 2025, there will be a revitalised speaking programme giving industry experts the platform to share their valuable insights in the areas of Sustainability, DE&I, Microsoft Teams and AV/AI Integration. Speakers and panellists will be announced in the com-

ing weeks, along with other new for 2025 show floor features.

In addition, a winning element of previous years, Love2Learn Cricket will again be held on Day 1 with an increased capacity and coaching levels for all abilities. At the end of the day, exhibitors and visitors can enjoy a ‘mix & mingle’ networking drinks reception with stunning views of the ground.

About Peerless-AV

For over 80 years, passion and innovation continue to drive Peerless-AV forward. We proudly design and manufacture the highest quality products, including outdoor displays and TVs, dvLED and LCD video wall systems, complete integrated kiosks, professional carts and stands, and more. Whether a full-scale global deployment or high-volume custom project, Peerless-AV develops meaningful relationships and delivers worldclass service. In partnership with Peerless-AV, you are trusting an award-winning team of experts who will support your business every step of the way. For more information, visit peerless-av.com.

Peerless-AV Revit Families & BIM Content

Peerless-AV provides BIM content/Revit families for its award-winning AV product lines for easy and convenient use within Autodesk Revit. Visit the BIMsmith® Library direct or via the Peerless-AV website.

*Bids are valid for 30 days until further notice*

**In the current climate, delivery times are taking longer, our ETA is estimated**

Registration is officially open for the AV Showcase 2025! Sign up here and find more information on the event home page here.

Follow us on X, and LinkedIn for the latest updates. For more information on the full range of Peerless-AV mounts and solutions visit www.peerless-av.com.