AV News November 2025

Kramer’s seamless and secure 4K collaboration

PPDS brings Ambilight to business

Kinly launches AV Security Standards

Kinly has announced the publication of new AV Security Standards, an open, verification-ready framework designed to help organisations secure modern AV environments from design through to operation. An AV industry first, the free standards are publicly available for customers, partners and even competitors to adopt, establishing a common benchmark for how AV security should be approached across the sector.

As hybrid collaboration spaces become smarter and more connected, AV technology is increasingly part of the enterprise attack surface, yet it remains under-governed. According to the UK Government’s 2025 Cyber Security Breaches Survey, only 14 per cent of UK businesses have formally reviewed the cybersecurity risks posed by their immediate suppliers, highlighting how supply-chain vulnerabilities still go unchecked.

Kinly’s own Trusted Connections 2025 research reinforces the gap. Nearly a third (31 per cent) of organisations admit their AV security is not fit for purpose, while almost half (46 per cent) don’t fully recognise the role of AV in maximising overall organisational security. This disconnect between AV adoption and cyber awareness underscores the urgent need for clearer standards. By publishing the Kinly AV Security Standards, the company aims to raise the industry’s baseline and establish a shared framework that helps organisations secure every

connected space - from boardrooms to classroomswith confidence.

Developed in response to the growing connectivity of AV systems and the modern threat landscape, the framework maps clear and practical controls across the full AV lifecycle. The standards provide guidance on vendor requirements, network segmentation, identity and access management, logging and monitoring, backup and recovery and more, creating a holistic approach that is Secure by Design. Each control includes a security objective and verification method and aligns with internationally recognised references including ISO/IEC 27001, the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and CIS Controls, making it straightforward for teams to evidence compliance and improve over time.

Commenting on the launch, Don Gibson, Global Chief Information Security Officer, Kinly, said: “AV now sits at the heart of critical collaboration and that makes it part of the attack surface. We’re making these standards public to raise the industry’s low watermark. This is about practical, verifiable steps that any organisation can take to harden devices, segment networks, enforce strong identities and keep systems evergreen. It’s never been more important to apply proven disciplines to AV in a consistent way. Imagine what boardrooms hear –M&A discussions, whistleblowing, financial details and

more. These are highly sensitive topics that many would be eager to access, which is why strengthening the security of AV systems must become a global priority. Security shouldn’t stop at the network edge. By opening up our AV Security Standards, we want to help customers, partners and peers reduce risk, strengthen supply-chain resilience and build trust in every space where people meet and work.”

The Kinly AV Security Standards are designed to be immediately actionable. They specify what to do and how to prove it, from embedding security into statements of work and design documentation, through to enforcing MFA, strong password management, centralising logs and testing recovery. The framework also supports regular auditing and KPI tracking so organisations can measure progress and maintain accountability over

New Direct-View LED Tracking Report available from PMA

PMA Research (PMA), the worldwide market information experts on large displays, have published their latest quarterly sell-through tracking report on Direct-View LED (dvLED) displays being sold by leading North American AV/IT distributors and Pro AV dealers who typically serve commercial markets.

In the Pro AV channel, September revenues for direct-view LED displays were up more than 10% compared to August and were up by more than one-third compared to September last year, thanks to solid sales of custom configuration projects. About 70% of September’s dvLED revenue came from custom configurations. The custom dvLED configuration revenues increased nearly 30% vs. August and by nearly 50% compared to September last year.

In the Distribution channel, Direct-view LED revenues nearly doubled month-over-month in September but still fell by 10% compared with September 2024. Custom configuration revenues doubled in September and the mix between All-in-One displays and Custom Configurations shifted to nearly 50:50 in the Distribution channel.

PMA has recently launched a Quarterly dvLED Tracking Report, which offers timely sell-through data and analysis of sales, revenues and market trends for dvLED displays sold by leading N. American AV/IT Distributors and Pro AV Dealers. These reports are ideal for tracking product and channel trends.

OUTSTANDING EXPERIENCES

Powered by Pandoras Box Software

Pandoras Box® Software Version 8.10 is here!

We added exciting new features to Version 8.10 to improve workflows and help you create even more outstanding AV experiences.

Try our free 90-day demo today

Let your imagination take you wherever you want to go with Pandoras Box Software and our free online training sessions.

Creativity, technique, intuition, and knowledge come together to turn everything into theatre with 3D mapping. Part of that formula is the support of the Christie team and Pandoras Box solutions.

DIRK VAN POPPEL 3D mapping artist

Artist DIRK VAN POPPEL

Partner SAHARA BENELUX

Venue ST. JAN, DEN BOSCH

The Gantry at LC-39, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

The challenge

Once a must-see stop for viewing Space Shuttle launches, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s LC-39 fell off the visitor map after shuttle flights ended in 2011. Since then, the landscape has changed dramatically, with annual launches jumping from five to more than 90, and with SpaceX, Blue Origin and NASA all operating nearby, LC-39 suddenly found itself back in the spotlight.

Kennedy Space Centre Visitor Complex saw the moment: reimagine the site as a high-impact, future-forward attraction that could hold visitor attention for at least an hour and relieve pressure across the complex. That meant delivering an immersive, edge-of-your-seat experience, powered by LED technology that could withstand hurricane winds, salt air and rocket vibrations, while still dazzling under the Florida sun.

The solution

LED Studio partnered with Kennedy Space Centre to deliver a suite of tailored, high-performance LED installations, each designed to elevate storytelling and interactivity across the LC-39 experience. These included:

1. The streaming screen - lifting off the launch experience

Positioned at the heart of the bleacher-lined stadium, the Fortis Plus 6mm Streaming Display features a 24’ x 14’ marine-grade screen mounted on two massive steel columns driven 25 feet into the ground to withstand Category 3 hurricanes and persistent launch vibrations. On launch days, it live-streams real-time feeds from NASA, SpaceX, and ULA, while daily programming includes educational videos about the launch pads, local wildlife, and more.

2. Earth Pulse Hyperwall - real-time environmental storytelling

Inside the Gallery Space, LED Studio installed a 32’ x 9’ curved COB Hyperwall using 1.2mm Vivid technology, built to withstand the vibrational forces of nearby launches. Known as the Earth Pulse, this eight-zone visual powerhouse showcases live satellite data from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center and JPL, including updates on climate change, weather systems, and environmental events around the globe.

3. Gantry launch simulation - theatrical tech meets space history

A standout feature of The Gantry at LC-39 is the custom L-shaped display embedded into the gantry facade,

synchronised with a theatrical show that culminates in a simulated engine test fire. At the centre of this 30-minute experience is “Sol,” an AI character who solves technical issues in real time before launching a fullscale simulation featuring a 7.5-ton mock engine, including an actual J2 engine from the Apollo program. LED Studio supplied the bright, weather-resistant Fortis Plus 6mm modules, to perfectly showcase the uniquely crafted bespoke L-shaped content, designed to complement dimensions of the display and preserve legibility and impact from all viewing angles.

4. Fourth floor rocket lab - interactive engineering and launch experience

Up in the Gantry’s enclosed fourth floor, visitors engage with Edge 1.8mm GOB screens at 12 digital stations where they build, design, and simulate rocket launches. Once complete, their creations are ‘launched’ on surrounding LED displays, either succeeding or failing de-

pending on the user’s design.

5. Elevator and concourse displays - context, wayfinding, and trivia

Throughout the building, Aegis 1.8mm 3500-nit displays provide educational content and trivia while guests move between floors. From rocket fuel facts to crawler track stats, these screens offer bite-sized insights that complement the immersive experience.

The results

Since reopening in July 2025, The Gantry at LC-39 has become the crown jewel of Kennedy Space Centre Visitor Complex. Guest dwell times consistently top an hour, engagement has spiked, and the site now features prominently across the centre’s commercial campaigns and social channels.

At the heart of the experience are the LED Studio displays, anchoring the visual narrative and pulling visitors into the story of spaceflight, science, and innovation. The signature L-shaped gantry screen has emerged as an icon, now front and centre on Kennedy’s official print brochure and instantly recognisable across media.

“LED Studio understands what we’re up against - the harsh conditions, the tight tolerances, and the high expectations. They helped us design something that would, literally, dissolve if it were not built right. But what we ended up with is better than I imagined. People absolutely love the displays. Every commercial you see [for the Visitor Complex] now includes The Gantry at LC-39. It’s our newest, most compelling asset, and LED Studio played a huge part in making it happen”, Richard Bahorich, Development Project Manager, Kennedy Space Centre Visitor Complex.

Shure announces new strategic alliances team

Shure has announced the formation of a new Strategic Alliances team dedicated to strengthening partnerships, expanding the company’s technology ecosystem, and driving transformation across global markets. The creation of this team underscores Shure’s commitment to advancing collaboration within the Unified Communications (UC) and professional audio sectors by building deeper relationships with key technology partners and accelerating innovation through strategic engagement. The new team will focus on three core priorities:

•Building deep alliances with technology partners to amplify integrated solutions and reinforce Shure’s leadership within the UC and collaboration ecosystem.

•Driving ecosystem engagement, ensuring Shure is fully represented in industry forums, partner programs, and joint initiatives that shape the future of the market.

•Enabling transformative partnerships that expand Shure’s reach, open new revenue streams, and accelerate customer adoption of next-generation solutions.

“By connecting the dots among alliances, partnerships, engagement, and ecosystem development, this team will help us capture new opportunities, scale faster, and deliver greater value for Shure and our customers,” said José Rivas, Vice President and Chief Sales Officer, Shure. Leading the new Strategic Alliances organization is Senior Director Boris Seibert, who joins Shure from Logitech, where he served as a global sales leader driving B2B transformation and go-to-market execution. The team also includes new members with experience from leading companies such as Avocor, AVer, Zoom, HP, and Jabra, alongside established Shure leaders transitioning into this group. This move marks a significant milestone in Shure’s ongoing business transformation. The Strategic Alliances team will play a pivotal role in shaping the company’s success in FY26 and beyond, reinforcing Shure’s mission to foster collaboration, accelerate innovation, and deliver extraordinary value to customers around the world.

Epson launches new circular leasing programme

Epson has announced a new strategic business model designed to make its technology more accessible for large corporate and public sector organisations, while advancing its sustainability commitments. In partnership with BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions, a European leader in equipment financing, Epson will introduce a comprehensive leasing programme covering its entire product portfolio. “This is a significant strategic milestone for Epson and will help us better support large scale customer requirements through a more competitive proposition,” says Rob Clark, COO, Epson Europe. “The solution means our customers can access the latest Epson technology without the burden of up-front investment.”

The leasing programme spans Epson’s full range of solutions - from business printing and scanning to projection, retail technologies, industrial print and robotics, including its latest collaborative robots. Customers will also benefit from 360° support delivered through Epson’s partners providing fleet management, maintenance and servicing solutions, enhanced by Epson’s open API to enable integration with partners’ management platforms. A unique feature of the model is Epson’s retention of product ownership at the end-oflease, ensuring all equipment is returned for refurbishment, reuse or recycling. This closed-loop approach is central to Epson’s corporate vision and helps prevent products from being disposed of inappropriate-

ly. “We already manage our own innovation and manufacturing facilities,” explained Richard Wells, Head of Market Development, Epson Europe. “Retaining control of products at the end of their life means we can extend resource use, reduce waste and further minimise environmental impact.”

From a financing perspective, leasing offers customers predictable costs, improved cash flow, and greater flexibility. Pascale Favre, MD of the Technology and Lifecycle Solutions business line at BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions, added: “We’re delighted to partner with Epson on this innovative programme. Leasing not only makes Epson’s cutting-edge technology more accessible, it also helps organisations manage risk and align with more sustainable business practices. Together, we’re enabling smarter, more responsible financing models for the future.”

Enterprises prioritise sustainability – but underplay the role of AV technology!

Businesses may be making bold commitments to sustainability, but many are overlooking a hidden lever in their ESG strategies: audio-visual (AV) technology. Research from Kinly’s Trusted Connections 2025 (TC25) report reveals that a striking 41% of organisations still do not value the pivotal role AV can play in improving sustainability, despite mounting evidence that smarter workplace technology can make a measurable difference.

This disconnect is especially surprising given that nearly two-thirds (63%) say their AV teams are actively involved in hitting carbon reduction targets and that AV innovation is already delivering measurable change. In fact, 39% of organisations that have undergone workplace transformation projects in the last year reported improved sustainability as a direct result. The data paints a picture of a turning point for the AV industry. The majority of businesses (61%) are already considering the impact of e-waste in technology procurement decisions. In addition, by the end of 2025, nearly three quarters (72%) of AV teams will have clearly defined sustainability targets.

At a more practical level, businesses are waking up to how AV can support energy efficiency, both in offices and at home. Over two-thirds (64%) believe AV decisions can reduce the energy consumption of remote workers. Inside the office, the spotlight is shifting toward smart building solutions. Nearly one in three (31%) organisations are investing in smart building analytics to optimise lighting and temperature based on occupancy and cut waste at scale.

Still, challenges remain. Nearly half of enterprises (45%) admit they lack adequate insight into how physical space is being used, limiting their ability to make the most of sustainability gains. As sustainability expectations intensify across every sector, the research underscores the importance of looking beyond traditional carbon reduction measures. It calls on business leaders to recognise the role of AV in not just enabling communication, but in enabling more energy-efficient, intelligent and sustainable workplaces.

Commenting on the findings, Simon Watson, Global Head of Innovation, Kinly, said: “If businesses are serious about hitting their ESG goals, they can’t afford to ignore AV. When used effectively, it can help cut emissions, lower energy use, and support more flexible, sustainable ways of working. It enables remote collaboration that reduces the need for travel and helps make office spaces more efficient through automation and occupancy-based controls. When integrated with workplace analytics, AV also gives organisations the data they need to track progress and make better-informed decisions. The companies making real strides are the ones seeing AV not just as a tech upgrade, but as a key part of building more responsible, future-ready workplaces.”

Solstice AV ramps up robotics offerings

Solstice AV has unveiled its newly redesigned robotics website, strengthening awareness of its growing robotics division and the transformative solutions it brings to resellers and end users across multiple sectors. The revamped site, now live at www.solsticeav.com/robotics, highlights the breadth of robotics offerings available from Solstice AV, spanning cleaning automation, customer experience, industrial and service delivery, and bespoke solutions. By combining proven robotics with its established AV portfolio, Solstice AV delivers an integrated, service-driven approach that addresses real-world operational challenges.

Solstice AV’s robotics solutions are deployed in healthcare, corporate, retail, hospitality, logistics, manufacturing, education, and transportation environments. Whether automating repetitive cleaning tasks, enhancing guest experiences, or improving efficiency in warehouses and factories, Solstice’s approach ensures robotics serve a genuine purpose. This includes cleaning robots and solutions along with popular tools like the non-autonomous Dryft and SH1, designed for retail and hospitality, alongside autonomous cleaning robots like the CC1 and MT1, among many others. The new site is designed to make it easier for resellers and customers to explore robotics solutions tailored to their needs, with case studies, product details, and dedicated support. With partnerships spanning global leaders such as LionsBot, MotorScrubber, PUDU, and Zaco, Solstice AV enables customers to access a trusted portfolio backed by consultative service.

But the redesign goes further than merely providing easy navigation, with a major priority placed on sharing deep, comprehensive, and accessible information for all visitors, including the growing number of UK-based resellers who face growing customer demand for robotics products and solutions. The revamped website provides a robust, ample repository of information and educational resources to help resellers gain the knowledge and understanding required to market and sell robotics solutions effectively and to tailor solutions to each client’s specific needs. As in the broader AV industry, being informed is the first step to standing out from the crowd. By helping the pro AV community better to nav-

igate the emerging (and sometimes daunting) robotics space, Solstice AV aims to position itself as a market leader at the start of a new chapter for the industry at large.

Michael Tulip, Director at Solstice AV, commented: “Robotics is no longer a futuristic idea – it’s here now, and businesses across every sector are realising the benefits. With this new website, we want to make our robotics offering clearer and more accessible, while shining a light on the real-world problems our solutions solve. From driving business growth and demystifying the robotics space to providing industry-leading customer service, our focus is on delivering meaningful impact for our clients and partners.”

BCS launches new brand

BCS has implemented a fresh, bold new branding to showcase the company as it is today, almost a decade after its initial launch. During that time, it has experienced strong growth, almost doubling in size in the last year alone and now employs people in key markets across the globe. James Hart, CEO at BCS explains:

“The new brand represents who we are today and who we’re becoming. It captures the dynamism and energy we bring to every project and client and, most importantly, it’s a brand owned and lived by our people.”

The new logo and modern colour palette have also been chosen to reflect the challenging and dynamic industry.

The photography, featuring various members of the BCS team, emphasises the importance of its people to the business clearly stating that while a brand is made of visuals, it’s people who bring it to life. It is supported by clearer messaging with a more direct and human style in line with its approach that facilitates the positioning of our services more clearly.

Anna Rantala, Marketing Manager at BCS, who has been responsible for the brand refresh, explains: “As BCS has grown it has become clear that our brand hadn’t fully kept up. The look and feel that once suited us no longer showed the scale, energy and expertise of the business today. This refresh is about showing the world the BCS that already exists - modern, dynamic, and human at its core, and is the platform to grow into the next decade. It gives space to our people and culture, the part of BCS that clients always tell me makes the biggest difference. It might feel like a big change, but the truth is we’ve been this brand all along. We just weren’t showing it.”

Ross Video expands into experiential technologies

Ross Video has announced the acquisition of ioversal, an established innovator in audiovisual production workflows and the creators of Vertex, a leading platform for immersive experiences. The acquisition marks Ross Video’s expansion into experiential technologies, strengthening its end-to-end live production ecosystem.

The Vertex AV production suite has earned recognition through high-profile installations worldwide, and is the trusted choice for interactive exhibits, live entertainment, large-scale productions, and dynamic projection mapping. Vertex provides the tools to unify video, audio, lighting, and control into one solution to create, manage, and automate captivating experiences. “Vertex gives our customers a powerful new way to tell their stories”, said David Ross, CEO of Ross Video. “It also extends our live production solutions into the experiential world, opening creative possibilities that inspire audiences everywhere.”

The acquisition underscores Ross Video’s commitment to broadening its portfolio across broadcast, sports, entertainment, and live events, offering customers a unified toolkit that combines live video production with experiential AV. With decades of expertise in media servers and interactive control systems, the ioversal team strengthens Ross Video’s ability to deliver innovative and engaging end-to-end solutions. “Joining Ross Video is a natural next step in our journey. Ross shares our passion for empowering customers and our belief that innovation should always serve creativity,” said Jan Hüwel, Co-Founder of ioversal.

“From the very beginning, our mission with Vertex has been to simplify complex audiovisual productions and give creators the freedom to focus on storytelling rather than technical hurdles,” said Martin Kuhn, Co-Founder of ioversal. “Together, we’ll be able to bring Vertex to an even wider audience and unlock incredible new possibilities for experiential media. We are deeply proud of what our team has built and are excited to be part of the Ross Video family.” Ross Video will introduce the Vertex production suite through a series of demos and showcases in the coming months, highlighting the platform’s creative potential and integration within Ross Video’s ecosystem.

How AV is transforming hotels and hospitality

Hotels and hospitality venues are under growing pressure to deliver memorable experiences and highly flexible event spaces. By Paul Midwood, Chief Technology Officer at Solstice AV explains how audio-visual technology is increasingly at the heart of that effort.

“AV isn’t a bolt-on anymore,” says Paul Midwood, CTO at Solstice AV. “It’s a core part of the guest experience and a serious revenue driver. Whether it’s an LED wall making a statement in the lobby or wireless collaboration in a meeting room, the right mix of tech can set a hotel apart and keep it ahead of what guests expect.”

Large-format LED walls have become one of the most transformative additions to hospitality design. Hotels are using ultra-fine-pitch LED to create floor-to-ceiling digital backdrops that can display calming artwork by day, then switch to vibrant branded content for evening events. “LED has become a game-changer,” Midwood explains. “Instead of static décor, we’re seeing dynamic, immersive spaces that set the tone for the entire guest journey.”

Meeting rooms and conference suites have evolved just as dramatically. Interactive flat-panel displays now replace many traditional projectors, giving corporate guests and event planners a seamless way to present, annotate and share content. These displays are often paired with wireless BYOD collaboration systems, removing software-install headaches and making hybrid meetings more natural.

Audio and control systems have also moved forward. Modern hotels are deploying DSP-managed audio and networked AV control platforms, so that spaces can transition quickly between small meetings, large conferences and social events—without a technical crew on hand for every changeover. A new wave of all-in-one LED kits has made it easier to deliver high-impact visuals with minimal installation time - an important factor for venues that cannot afford prolonged disruption. Smarter digital-signage platforms and intuitive control systems are also helping staff run technology across meeting rooms and social spaces without specialist expertise. “Ease of use is vital,” says Midwood. “If the technology feels complex or unreliable, staff won’t use it to its full potential. The best solutions are almost invisible - they just work.”

Guests increasingly expect seamless technology across both public and private spaces, while hotel operators want reliability, energy efficiency and systems that are easy for staff to manage. Manufacturers have responded with energy-efficient LED, scalable UC solutions and intuitive control platforms that make complex AV setups simple to operate. These advances have also created new revenue opportunities. Hotels are using digital signage for targeted content and advertising and are packaging premium meeting experiences - complete with interactive collaboration tools and high-quality AV - into higher-margin event offerings.

“AV isn’t a bolt-on anymore,” says Paul Midwood, CTO at Solstice AV. “It’s a core part of the guest experience and a serious revenue driver.”

Hotels often have limited downtime for installations and need technology that copes with a wide range of ambient lighting conditions. Ultra-slim LED, pre-configured meeting-room kits and AV-over-IP systems are helping overcome these challenges by reducing installation time, improving visual performance and simplifying ongoing management. Another priority is interoperability. While open standards have improved, many operators now favour integrated, all-in-one solutions because they reduce complexity and day-to-day management effort.

Demand for AV in hospitality has grown strongly in the past year, particularly in Europe and the Middle East, driven by the hybrid-events boom and the desire for brand-led design. Hotels competing for high-end guests and corporate bookings increasingly view advanced AV as a differentiator.

Looking ahead, Midwood sees several forces shaping the next phase:

•Evolving LED: finer pixel pitches, slimmer profiles, curved and even transparent options opening new creative possibilities for lobbies and event spaces.

•Next-generation collaboration: fully interactive meeting-room environments that remove the pain of cables and compatibility issues.

•Integrated control: single-platform solutions that run displays, audio and signage, making it easier to scale technology across a whole property or estate.

•Sustainability: energy-efficient displays, greener manufacturing and remote-monitoring capabilities that help operators meet ESG goals while keeping operating costs down.

“Technology that looks great, works simply and delivers value beyond the wow factor - that’s the real goal,” Midwood concludes. “It’s about improving guest experi-

ence, making spaces more flexible and unlocking new revenue streams.” The message is clear: AV is no longer just about equipment hire for conferences. It’s becoming central to how hotels define their brand, shape the guest experience and create profitable event spaces. Those investing in well-designed, seamlessly integrated solutions are setting a new benchmark - one where technology becomes part of the story guests remember.

DisplayNote and Avocor expand partnership with Launcher v2

DisplayNote Technologies UK has announced an expanded partnership with Avocor, a global leader in interactive display solutions. Building on a collaboration that has spanned 4 + years, Avocor will now offer Launcher v2 directly to customers, marking a new chapter in the companies’ long-standing relationship. Previously offered to Avocor customers as GroupShare, a customised version of DisplayNote Launcher, the move to Launcher v2 delivers the full benefits of DisplayNote’s latest release, while preserving the simplicity, security, and cross-platform compatibility customers already trust ed.

Since the start of their partnership, DisplayNote and Avocor have been united by a clear goal: to remove complexity from meeting spaces and deliver technology that makes collaboration simpler, smarter, and more productive for teams everywhere. What began as Group Share has evolved into today’s announcement, with the partnership continuing to break down barriers to better meetings and enabling teams to connect across platforms, devices, and geographies. “While video conferencing vendors build walls, DisplayNote hands out the keys,” says Ed Morgan, CEO of DisplayNote. “Too often,

organisations are forced to work within the limits of a single platform, adding complexity and frustration to something as simple as starting a meeting. Launcher v2, paired with Avocor displays, removes those barriers. It gives teams true freedom to connect and collaborate their way no matter which platform they choose.”

Now, Launcher v2 advances commitment even further, offering Avocor customers the tools to achieve more with:

•Centralised Management – Clear visibility and control of rooms and devices at scale.

• Modernized Interface – Cleaner, calmer navigation that makes meetings easier to start.

•Editable Home Screens – Personalized layouts and shortcuts that adapt to how people work.

•Screen Saver Messaging – Idle screens that keep teams informed, guided, or welcomed.

These come in addition to the features that made GroupShare and Launcher trusted by IT and users alike:

•Multi-VC Support – Join Teams, Zoom, Meet, Webex, and more from one screen.

•Kiosk Mode and Automatic Cleanup – Every session locked down, every time.

•Calendar-based Meeting Launch – One-touch access to scheduled calls.

“At Avocor, we’ve always believed that the right combination of hardware and software is what truly drives productivity in modern workspaces,” says Dana Corey, SVP & GM at Avocor. “Our long-standing partnership with DisplayNote reflects that belief, and with the release of Launcher v2, its powerful software solutions continue to complement Avocor’s collaboration displays perfectly. Together, we deliver a seamless collaboration ecosystem that empowers teams to connect, share, and achieve more in every environment.”

VuWall Expands Presence in the UK

VuWall has announced the opening of its new office and Experience Centre in London, UK. Located in Salisbury House, adjacent to Moorgate Station in the heart of the city, this strategic expansion strengthens VuWall’s presence in the UK and surrounding regions. As the demand for mission-critical visualization and control room solutions continues to grow across the UK and Europe — driven by increasing investments in public safety, transportation, utilities, and corporate security — VuWall’s expansion reflects the company’s commitment to providing local expertise, faster support, and deeper collaboration with regional partners and customers.

“This new space brings us closer to our partners and customers across the UK, offering a hands-on environment to explore the latest in control room technology, including our certified integrations with Genetec Security Centre and Milestone XProtect,” said Paul Brooks, VuWall’s Business Development Director for the UK, Ireland & Nordics. The London Experience Centre provides visitors with a real-time, interactive showcase of VuWall’s innovative solutions, including video wall management, AV-over-IP, and KVM technology. Visitors can also explore the award-winning TRx software platform and comprehensive video wall ecosystem. The facility enables system integrators, consultants, and end users to discover how VuWall solutions simplify control room deployments, enhance operations, and increase situational awareness in mission-critical environments.

The Experience Centre features a Samsung video wall display, generously provided by Samsung, and B-Tech AV mounts, offering robust, flexible mounting. Visitors can also experience the fully integrated Advancis solution, running seamlessly with VuWall’s TRx software. This setup demonstrating advanced incident management and situational awareness capabilities. “VuWall’s Experience Centre is an impressive showcase of technology collaboration,” said Chris Ault, Business Development Lead for Samsung Electronics UK. “We are proud to support them with our industry-leading display technology and to see it brought to life alongside their powerful control and visualization platform.”

The Experience Centre also highlights VuWall’s seam-

less integrations with leading video management systems (VMS) such as Genetec, Milestone, and Synectics — delivering robust, scalable, and efficient visualization and control solutions that are improving operational efficiency in Security Operation Centres (SOC) worldwide. VuWall’s continued growth in the UK underscores its dedication to supporting local markets with regional expertise and resources, ensuring faster service, stronger partnerships, and accessible customer support.

Nureva appoints Epatra as distributor across Benelux

Nureva Inc has announced the appointment of Epatra to bring its revolutionary audio solutions to customers across the Benelux area. With over two decades of market experience, a strong reseller ecosystem and offices in the Netherlands and Belgium, Epatra is well positioned to deliver Nureva’s full suite of solutions to enterprise, education and government customers throughout the region. Hybrid working and learning continue to reshape demand for meeting room technology across Benelux. In the Netherlands, over half of workers (52%) worked from home sometimes or most of the time in 2023, the highest share in the European Union (EU), according to Statistics Netherlands (CBS). Belgium’s national statistics office (Statbel) also reports sustained hybrid work measured through the EU Labour Force Survey, underscoring ongoing hybrid practices that increase pressure on meeting spaces to deliver reliable full-room audio.

To address the growing need for consistent, high-quality audio in larger rooms without complexity, Epatra will offer Nureva’s award-winning systems powered by patented Microphone Mist technology. This breakthrough technology fills rooms with thousands of virtual microphones to deliver true full-room audio coverage, so every participant is heard clearly and collaboration happens naturally and easily — without the costs and complexities of traditional multicomponent installations. “Nureva stands for simplicity with exceptional quality, and we’re very pleased to add their audio systems to our brand portfolio,” said Sander Van Duuren, Head of Pro AV at Epatra. “The company’s revolutionary audio solutions fit perfectly with our mission to redefine meeting and learning spaces with innovative, relevant technologies.”

“We’re delighted to be working with Epatra on growing awareness and adoption of Nureva products across the Benelux region,” said Nancy Knowlton, Nureva’s CEO. “Their well-established channel will expose a broad range of new customers to our unique combination of pro AV performance and plug and play simplicity for larger meeting and learning spaces.” Nureva continues to grow its global footprint, with recent deployments including Groupama Stadium in France, Wipro in India and the University of Chester in the United Kingdom. With Epatra, organizations in Benelux countries gain easier access to Nureva’s powerful-yet-simple audio solutions for their meeting and learning spaces. These include the HDL pro series systems — the only microphone and speaker bar solutions fully certified for use in larger Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms.

Nureva appoints EET Group for Denmark and Norway

Nureva Inc has announced the appointment of EET Group to bring the company’s revolutionary audio systems to organisations across Denmark and Norway. Headquartered in Birkerød, Denmark, EET Group is one of Europe’s largest value-added IT distributors, operating in over 20 markets and serving a broad reseller ecosystem. Hybrid working and learning continue to drive the need for reliable, scalable meeting room and classroom audio in Nordic countries. In 2023, 36.8% of employees in Denmark and 41.8% in Norway worked from home at least sometimes, according to EURES (EURopean Employment Services), underscoring the need for sustained hybrid practices that raise the bar for clear, full-room audio in larger spaces. Recent research by Nordregio similarly found remote and hybrid work remain structurally embedded across the region, reinforcing continued planning for hybrid environments. “We’re pleased to add Nureva to our portfolio. Their audio solutions complement our leading display brands, allowing us to deliver fully integrated, high-performance solutions for meeting rooms and classrooms,” said Henrik Finnedal, Pro AV Business Line Director, EET Group. “By combining Nureva’s audio systems with premium displays, we offer a seamless, plug and play experience in rooms ranging from small to large.”

“Welcoming EET Group as our distributor in Denmark and Norway strengthens our ability to help IT teams modernize meeting spaces with clear, reliable audio — without the cost and complexity of traditional systems,” said Nancy Knowlton, Nureva’s CEO. “Their IT expertise and trusted reseller relationships will enable access to Nureva across those countries.”

Collab AV and Alpha Víctor announce strategic alliance

Collab AV, a UK-based specialist in collaborative technology and audiovisual solutions, has announced a strategic alliance with AlphaVictor, an innovative software platform developer dedicated to improving how organisations manage and experience technology in their spaces. The collaboration will see Collab AV integrate AlphaVictor’s data-driven platform into its portfolio of AV and workplace technology services, enabling clients to achieve greater operational efficiency, enhanced user experience, and improved long-term service outcomes.

Combining Collab AV’s expertise in technology integration and managed services with AlphaVictor’s intelligent, feedback-driven tools, the partnership will allow organisations of all sizes to better document, monitor, and support their technology environments — from meeting rooms to multi-site estates. Mark Tildesley, Director of Collab AV, commented: “Our alliance with AlphaVictor represents a significant evolution in how we deliver and support technology for our clients. Their intuitive, data-driven approach complements our commitment to excellence, allowing us to enhance service delivery, efficiency, and end-user satisfaction.”

Hollie Jenkins-Green, Commercial Lead at AlphaVictor, added:

“Partnering with Collab AV gives us the opportunity to bring our technology to a broader range of organisations. Collab AV’s customer-focused ethos and technical capability make them an ideal partner for helping clients realise the full potential of smarter, more connected spaces, we are already working together on multiple opportunities and their passion for delighting their customers shines through in everything they do”

AlphaVictor’s platform empowers organisations to understand their spaces through data and feedback, enabling proactive maintenance, simplified documentation, and real-time issue resolution - reducing downtime and improving sustainability by digitising user guides and minimising site visits. Together, Collab AV and AlphaVictor will provide UK organisations with an expanded suite of intelligent, user-centric technology services designed to deliver measurable performance and long-term value.

Qbic and DENEVA partner on sustainable digital signage

Qbic Technology and DENEVA have announced a strategic partnership to address the digital signage industry’s biggest challenges: scalability, seamless integration, and sustainable operation. By combining Qbic’s ePaper series with the DENEVA platform, the alliance delivers an energy-efficient, real-time solution that transforms displays into intelligent tools for communication, engagement, and growth.

At the heart of this collaboration are Qbic’s 4-inch EP0400 and 7-inch EP-0700 ePaper devices - lightweight, versatile, and engineered for 24/7 visibility - seamlessly integrated with DENEVA’s powerful content management system. Together, they empower organisations to automate updates, cut energy costs, and scale deployments across retail, transit, and enterprise environments while ensuring consistent, accurate information delivery.

“Audiences today don’t just want to see information. They expect it to be delivered reliably and in real time,” said Vincent Chen, Director of Product Management at Qbic Technology. “By combining our purpose-built ePaper series with the DENEVA platform, we’re enabling organisations to communicate at scale in a way that is not only energy efficient and cost-saving, but also aligned with growing ESG and sustainability goals.”

For retailers, the solution makes it easy to update pricing, promotions, and product information instantly across hundreds of stores, ensuring consistency and reducing manual labor. In corporate and institutional settings, centralised management allows teams to schedule and broadcast updates across campuses, meeting rooms, and shared spaces without the burden of manual maintenance.

“Partnering with Qbic allows us to extend DENEVA’s capabilities with hardware that is sustainable, versatile, and proven in real-world deployments,” said Rafael Hornos, CTO, DENEVA. “Together, we’re setting a new

benchmark for digital signage that is smart, scalable, and future-ready.”

As industries worldwide accelerate digital transformation, the Qbic–DENEVA alliance positions ePaper as more than a display technology. It becomes a sustainable engine for engagement, influence, and operational intelligence.

Barco hosts its Capital Markets Day 2025

Barco is hosted its 2025 Capital Markets Day for analysts, investors and financial press. CEO An Steegen, together with the Barco leadership team, shared insights into Barco’s strategy and positioning over the next years. The event, held at Barco’s One Campus in Kortrijk (Belgium), focuses on Barco’s corporate and technology strategy, as well as divisional updates and insights in all the markets in which Barco is active. Attendees will experience live demonstrations of Barco’s latest innovations in the newly upgraded Barco Experience Centre. The day is designed to provide deep insights into Barco’s direction, with opportunities for direct engagement with the leadership team.

This year’s Capital Markets Day centred around the theme “Eye on Tomorrow”, reflecting Barco’s ambition to shape the future of visualization, connectivity, and

Barco is entering a new phase—one where software, connectivity, and intelligent workflows are increasingly at the heart of everything we do,” says An Steegen, CEO of Barco.

intelligent workflows. The company aims to capture profitable growth with its recent new product introductions, and by innovating with software and AI. This allows expansion into new markets and adjacencies, and deepening customer engagement, through innovative and sustainable solutions. The day featured deep dives into Barco’s core markets — Entertainment, Enterprise, and Healthcare. Highlights for Entertainment include premiumization in Cinema with HDR by Barco and mid-segment expansion. Enterprise featured the new ClickShare Hub in-room system and operator-centric AVoIP control rooms. Healthcare showcased digital pathology and AI-powered operating room solutions.

“After we have built solid foundations in recent years, that will allow us to capitalise on numerous new product introductions and our focused factories footprint, Barco is entering a new phase—one where software, connectivity, and intelligent workflows are increasingly at the heart of everything we do,” says An Steegen, CEO of Barco. “We remain committed to investing in innovation and expanding our reach into new markets and segments, delivering sustainable value for our customers, our people and our shareholders, and setting new standards in the markets we serve.”

Barco also shared its financial outlook, reconfirming its guidance for 2025, expecting a topline and EBITDA margin for the full year 2025, above the level of 2024. Looking ahead to 2028, Barco targets to grow towards €1.1 billion in sales, 15% recurring revenues, and a 15% EBITDA margin, supported by new product introductions, software-driven growth, and operational efficiency. Starting from a strong cash position, and an expected free cash flow of €200-250m in the next 3 years, Barco continues to evaluate opportunities for inorganic growth, while prioritizing shareholder returns and strategic flexibility. On the sustainability front, Barco aims for 85% of revenues to be ECO-labelled by 2028 and a 25% reduction in absolute carbon emissions by 2030 versus 2024.

Barco appoints Martin Professional as distributor for Middle East

Barco has announced the appointment of Martin Professional Middle East (MPME) as distributor for its midrange projection solutions in the region. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in Barco’s commitment to expanding its presence and delivering world-class visual experiences across the Middle East. This agreement builds on a longstanding relationship between Barco and Martin Professional, reflecting a shared vision for customer-centric innovation and excellence. By combining Barco’s cutting-edge projection technology with MPME’s deep market expertise and robust distribution network, both companies are poised to deliver even greater value to partner and customers.

Bilal Assidi, Sales Director at Martin Professional ME, shared his enthusiasm about the collaboration: “This milestone is more than just a partnership renewal, it’s a powerful joint step forward that cements our commitment to delivering cutting-edge, world-class visual technologies to our partners and clients. Together, we’re not only expanding Barco’s footprint in the Middle East but

also setting new standards of innovation and excellence in the industry.” With this renewed alliance, Barco and MPME will work closely to enable customers across the region to access Barco’s latest mid-range projection solutions, such as the G-series and I600 projection platforms, backed by MPME’s renowned service and support. This collaboration is set to drive new opportunities in sectors such as entertainment, corporate, and live events.

“This is an exciting new chapter for both Martin Professional ME and Barco,” Assidi added. “And we can’t wait to embark on this journey side by side—bringing unmatched solutions, service, and experiences to our valued customers across the region. Here’s to the future of brighter visuals, stronger partnerships, and limitless possibilities.” From Barco’s perspective, the partnership underscores both companies’ dedication to raising the bar for visual technology and customer satisfaction in the Middle East. Domien De Witte, VP Sales and Marketing at Barco, concluded: “We are delighted to strengthen our collaboration with Martin Professional Middle East. Their expertise, reach, and commitment to quality make them the ideal partner to represent Barco’s mid-range projection portfolio in the region. Together, we look forward to empowering our customers with the very best in visual technology and support.”

Project Audio Visual and Unscripted announce partnership

Project Audio Visual (PAV) has joined forces with interior design and build specialists Unscripted to reshape how AV and architectural design teams collaborate in workplace projects. Instead of treating AV as a final fix, the two companies are working together from day one to create spaces where technology is fully integrated and aligned with the design vision. In many projects, AV is still brought in at the end, often leading to compromises in layout, function and finish. This partnership flips that script, embedding AV thinking into the early stages of planning and design, so that technology supports rather than competes with the space.

Stefan van der Plas, Founder of Unscripted says: “Working with an AV company from the very start has completely reshaped how I think about the design process. AV isn’t just something you drop in at the end, it’s as foundational as lighting or flooring. Having Leroy and the Project Audio Visual team involved from day one meant we could make smarter, more integrated decisions that elevate the entire experience.” By collaborating early, the teams can plan holistically, considering cabling, acoustic needs, infrastructure and user behaviour in tandem with materials, layout and finishes. The result is a more efficient, joined-up process and spaces that feel seamless for users.

Leroy Seket, Head of European Operations at Project Audio Visual comments: “AV isn’t just about equipment. It’s about enabling connection, culture and experience. When AV has a voice at the design table, everyone wins. By partnering with Unscripted on projects from the very start, we can ensure technology isn’t an afterthought but a part of the aesthetic and culture. From intuitive platform driven or BYOD meeting rooms to fully integrated town hall and interactive collaboration zones, we help create offices people want to work in. Our mission is to keep teams connected, engaged and empowered at the touch of a button.”

This partnership highlights the benefits of integrating AV as a core part of the design and build process, rather than a technical add-on. It’s a model both teams believe can help raise the bar for workplace environments across the board. Project Audio Visual will be sharing lessons from this collaboration at the Workplace Design Show in Amsterdam from 5th - 6th November, spotlighting how early-stage alignment between AV and design teams leads to better outcomes for clients, designers and end users alike.

INTELLIMIX TM FOUNDATION SYSTEM

xR technology in commercial applications

Technological advances in Augmented (aR), Virtual (vR) and Mixed Reality (mR), (umbrella term Extended Reality or xR), are currently running well ahead of commercial applications for these technologies. When and how will this change? What are the limiting factors? Who will be the early adopters? Bryan Denyer, editor of AV News, assesses the state of the art, with additional reporting from Darren Banks VP of Partnerships at The LED Studio. The report concludes with ideas of when and how to use the various tools that xR provides, and when the technologies should be left well alone!

A lot of press coverage is devoted to technological advances in Augmented, Virtual, and Mixed Reality (umbrella term Extended Reality or xR). But the truth is, these advances are running well ahead of commercial applications for these technologies. Darren Banks of The LED Studio has witnessed this at first hand “Yes, the hardware and software technology is already at an incredibly high level, whether it be on camera technology, LED screens, or behind the camera technology, media players, tracking systems or content engines. Ultimately, the “next gen” tech is available today!”

The availability of appropriate hardware and software is not proportionate to the commercial deployment of xR technologies right now, which is not to say that there are no current commercial applications. Banks has seen some take-up in markets including: “Broadcast, advertising, film making, design and manufacturing are all applications where xR technology has been successfully used for many years. Now, with advancements in technology, we are now seeing a large uptake from customers in the themed destinations and attractions markets, as well as universities, healthcare, and R&D customers.” But which sectors will be the next to emerge?

Banks believes that: “The other standout area is going to be gaming (both professional and leisure).”

Integration

In order that xR technologies can feature in both shared and immersive experiences, integration with AV solutions is a ‘must’ – headsets will only take us so far. Banks believes that: “XR technologies are integrating with traditional Audio Visual (AV) solutions to transform how people collaborate, learn, and experience content in physical spaces. Instead of flat screens and speakers, AV systems can now incorporate immersive, interactive digital elements that merge with the real world. This integration creates more dynamic and engaging experiences across various environments, from corporate meetings to themed destinations and large-scale events.”

Commercial applications with enhanced immersive customer experiences are among the most likely advantages of xR technology “Companies around the world are investing in XR to enhance product design, improve customer experiences, streamline operations, and revolutionise workforce training. But the advantages gained

depend on the vertical market and the specific application of the technology.” Banks continues: “For themed destinations and attractions, the customer experience is measured in “smiles”, whereas for broadcast / film applications it can be saving on travel and location costs or reducing the carbon footprint of the business by making more use of the studio. For manufacturing and R&D, the advantage can be reducing physical number of protypes needed and speeding up the go-to-market for the product. For education and healthcare, it means a higher level of teaching can be imparted to the students or patients.”

Barriers to entry

From the examples above it is clear that the range of xR applications is potentially limitless, so what is it that is deterring potential investors? Is it the cost? Is it the lack of a provable ROI / business case? Or is it a lack of sophistication in XR solutions? Banks believes that: “It’s certainly not a lack of sophistication, as we know the technology exists far beyond current use cases. Cost

plays a part for sure, but the initial outlay becomes insignificant if the ROI is strong enough. Rather than ‘Can we afford to do this’? The argument should be ‘Can we afford NOT to do this?’ It’s about building a provable ROI case and understanding what benefits XR can bring to the business.” Banks adds: “In my opinion awareness is a big barrier as customers cannot invest in something they don’t know exits. People know the buzz words of xR but mainly associate them with broadcast and film making applications -not necessarily commercial or business applications.”

Awareness of what xR technologies can do for a business or organisation is obviously an issue among end-users, but the same can be true in the channel when it comes to offering the required skill set in designing, installing, and operating xR-based solutions. Banks concurs: “Yes, the complexity of xR requires a unique combination of technical, creative, and operational expertise and even though xR has boomed since the pandemic in 2020 there is still a lack of abundant skills needed to deliver an xR studio facility. This skills gap is a major barrier to widespread xR adoption, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).”

Market suitability

Awareness and skill shortages are clearly factors limiting the adoption of xR solutions, but there also questions about solutions which distract user’s attention away from their real-world environment. If users must be completely bound up in the immersive experience to get the full experience, does this render outdoor and industrial applications inappropriate - or even dangerous? Banks agrees with this note of caution: “Yes to a degree, requiring complete immersion does render fully immersive Virtual Reality (vR) applications inappropri-

ate and dangerous for most outdoor and industrial settings. However, other xR technologies, namely Augmented Reality (aR) and Mixed Reality (mR), are designed to enhance, rather than replace, a user’s view of the real world, making them suitable and highly valuable for these environments. The key distinction is the level of immersion.”

Future developments

So, there is no doubt that xR technologies are already at a level of readiness for commercial applications and that developments continue at pace. The leaders in this process include some of the largest tech players in the world, plus a considerable body of new entrants and smaller specialists. Banks has been monitoring these developments from the outset: “The technology leaders in the commercial xR space include major tech giants, specialised hardware companies, and prominent software platform providers such as Meta, Microsoft, Apple, Qualcomm, Unity and Epic Games.” He is convinced that there remains scope for allcomers: “Viable commercial xR solutions will be developed by both the IT majors and new, smaller players. While tech giants like Meta, Apple, and Microsoft lead in foundational hardware and platforms, startups are crucial for driving specific applications and innovation, particularly in niche and enterprise markets.”

The presence of these smaller specialist developers alongside the IT majors will drive the market for niche applications in addition to generic markets: “Early xR adoption will focus on vertical markets with high-value, high-risk, or complex processes that can be made safer and more efficient through immersive visualisation and simulation. While the entertainment industry is a leader in consumer xR, manufacturing, healthcare, and education are leading the charge for commercial xR applications.”

The aggregate market for xR tools and applications is expected to total over $460 billion in five years, compounding the exponential growth in demand for xR experienced over the past two years. According to a survey by Market & Markets Research, xR has a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of more than 62%. This extraordinary growth is mostly the result of organisa-

tions adopting digital transformation in the enterprise sector. The primary causes driving increasing investment in xR, include:

Accessibility of more cost-effective options.

Increased adoption – disruptive technology is being accepted more readily by businesses of all sizes.

Hybrid workforce: the modern workforce, characterised by hybrid employment and the demands of younger generations for a wider range of technologies.

The best xR technology for your application?

The best xR for your application can be determined by considering four factors:

1. Users

Always start with a solution that is user centric. Consider how the user’s life will be made easier by the solution

you are offering. Who will be the final user? Is there a high learning curve before adoption or do prospective users already have experience with similar technologies? The technologies that adoptees use most frequently use should also be taken into account.

2. Situation

Consider “where” the solution will be used the majority of the time. For instance, is it on the couch being used by a customer or is it in a confined place in an elevator by a technician? You could use either mR or aR for both of these cases, but it makes more sense to utilize mR in the technician’s situation since, unlike the consumer, the technician needs a hands-free solution that visualizes contextual information.

3. Involvement

Does the user need to have a solid foundation in reality, or not? For instance, would the user be completing a training module to learn how to put together a complicated piece of equipment, or will the user be engaging in ‘hands-on’ training to learn how to perform tasks in settings where it would not be safe for the user to do so,

such as surgery? In the first case, augmented reality (aR) would be the greatest solution because it makes instructions easily accessible whenever needed and can be easily viewed in relation to the user’s surroundings. Virtual reality (vR) can be the most appropriate where it is simple to replicate a setting in which a user can learn sophisticated surgery in a controlled setting. With vR, you can perform ‘flythroughs’ while completely immersed in the simulated environment, as well as obtain various points of view and display everything in real-world scale. You can choose the one that makes the most sense once you have determined your main goal.

4. The application’s goal

What purposes will the app serve, such as training, data visualisation, product design, seeing designs, etc. Your choice of technology for the solution you’re designing will be influenced by the app’s intended use. You can select between mR and vR, for instance, if you want to create an app that allows stakeholders to examine a building at life-size scale in order to review plans and materials.

Choosing solutions from the xR tool kit

When aR could aR be the solution

You should consider using augmented reality (aR) technologies when you want to blend digital content with the real world in a way that enhances understanding, engagement, or interaction. Whether you’re designing an app, a training system, or a marketing campaign, aR is best used when it adds clear value beyond what standard 2D interfaces or physical-only experiences can offer.

Entertainment & games: Enhancing real-world play spaces (like Pokémon GO).

Museums & tourism: Bringing exhibits or landmarks to life with extra digital layers.

4. When spatial context matters aR excels when information depends on where or what the user is looking at.

using

Here’s a breakdown of when and why to use aR:

1. When Visualization Enhances Understanding

Use aR when users benefit from seeing information in real-world context. Examples include:

Education & training: Visualising complex systems (like anatomy, machinery, or architecture) in a 3D space. Industrial maintenance: Overlaying repair instructions or part labels directly on equipment.

Data visualisation: Displaying data tied to physical spaces or objects (e.g., energy use per room).

2. When users need to try or preview something aR is powerful for try-before-you-buy or spatial preview scenarios.

Examples include:

Retail: Letting customers see how furniture fits in their room (e.g., IKEA Place).

Fashion/beauty: Virtual try-on for glasses, makeup, or clothes.

Property: Viewing renovations or decor changes in real-time.

3. Increasing engagement or immersion

AR can make experiences more interactive and memorable.

Examples include:

Marketing & advertising: Interactive packaging or aR product demos.

You should consider

virtual reality (vR) technology when immersion, what traditional methods offer. (Photo by julien Tromeur on Unsplash

Examples include:

Navigation: Indoor or outdoor aR wayfinding.

Construction & design: Visualising blueprints overlaid on physical sites.

Healthcare: guiding surgical procedures with overlaid anatomical data.

immersion, visualisation, or experiential learning can create value beyond

Unsplash

Information can be displayed in the real world, but it need not interact with anything there.

When complete immersion in the virtual environment is not necessary.

Work can be done collaboratively in teams. aR can be employed in any setting, including industrial

FEATURE

and commercial settings, like manufacturing with no or minimal risk to users.

When not to use aR

Avoid aR if:

A simple 2D interface or video tutorial works just as well. The aR experience doesn’t offer meaningful interaction or context.

Users are unlikely to have the necessary hardware (e.g., aR glasses, smartphones with ARKit/ARCore support).

You can’t ensure a smooth, well-lit environment—AR tracking can fail in poor lighting or cluttered spaces. When vR could be the solution

You should consider using virtual reality (vR) technology when immersion, visualisation, or experiential learning can create value beyond what traditional methods offer. Here’s a breakdown of when and why to use VR:

Users must be completely immersed in order to experience virtual reality i.e. completely unaware of their surroundings.

Therefore, both outdoor and industrial use are inappropriate. Ideal in a regulated setting where the user has the ability to roam about and complete their virtual activities.

Real-time remote interaction and collaboration. Scale-up your 3D modelling, but without regard for context.

Examples include:

Education & training

Use VR when:

Hands-on practice is needed, but real-world training is expensive, risky, or impractical (e.g., surgery, aviation, firefighting, manufacturing).

You want to simulate real-life scenarios safely—like emergency procedures or medical simulations. You need to teach spatial or physical skills (e.g., mechanics, anatomy, architecture).

1. Design, engineering, & architecture

Use VR when:

You need to visualise spaces or products before they’re built.

Stakeholders benefit from walking through a design at full scale.

Collaborative reviews or design iterations require 3D context.

2. Entertainment & gaming

Use VR when:

The goal is immersion—putting the user inside the story or experience.

You’re developing experiences that benefit from physical engagement and presence.

3. Remote work & collaboration

Use VR when:

Teams benefit from a shared 3D environment for brainstorming, prototyping, or social connection.

You want to reduce “Zoom fatigue” with virtual meeting spaces that feel more natural.

4. Sales & marketing

Use VR when:

Customers benefit from trying before buying—like previewing furniture in their home or touring real estate remotely.

You want to create memorable, interactive brand experiences.

4. Healthcare & therapy

Use VR when:

Treating phobias, PTSD, or anxiety with exposure therapy in controlled environments.

Supporting pain management or rehabilitation through distraction or gamified exercises. When Not to Use vR

Avoid vR if:

The task doesn’t require immersion (a normal screen or AR is enough).

Users might experience motion sickness or accessibility issues.

The cost and setup time outweigh the benefits.

When mR could be the solution?

Use Mixed Reality (mR) when you need to blend physical and digital environments for interactive, immersive experiences -especially in training, design, healthcare, and remote collaboration. Mixed Reality technology is ideal when you want to go beyond simple overlays (like Augmented Reality) and create environments where

digital objects interact with the real world in real time.

mR shines in the following applications:

1. Training & simulation

Medical training: simulate surgeries or anatomy exploration with realistic, interactive 3D models.

Industrial training: teach complex machinery operations or safety protocols using immersive simulations.

Military and emergency response: practice scenarios in controlled, dynamic environments.

2. Design & engineering

Architecture and construction: visualize building designs in real-world settings before construction begins.

Product design: prototype and test digital models in physical space, adjusting in real time.

3. Healthcare

Surgical planning: overlay patient scans onto the body for precise navigation.

Rehabilitation: use interactive mR environments to guide physical therapy and cognitive recovery.

4. Remote Collaboration

Virtual meetings: share and manipulate 3D models or data in real time across locations.

Field support: experts can guide technicians remotely using MR annotations and visuals.

5. Retail & customer experience

Virtual try-ons: let customers see how furniture, clothes, or makeup look in their own space.

Interactive showrooms: blend physical products with digital enhancements for richer experiences.

6. Entertainment & education

Gaming: create immersive gameplay that responds to the physical environment.

Classroom learning: teach science, history, or art with interactive 3D content layered into the real world. When NOT to use mR

If your goal is simple visual overlays (use aR instead).

If full immersion in a virtual world is needed (use vR).

If hardware costs or setup complexity outweigh the benefits.

LED Curtain test flight explores future of aerial LED

LED Studio has revealed the successful test flight of a drone-mounted LED curtain, an ultra-lightweight, ultra-thin and highly transparent mesh display. The trial highlights how airborne LED technology could reshape visual storytelling at events, live shows and cultural landmarks. This emerging format opens new creative possibilities for delivering immersive, sky-based experiences across entertainment, advertising and public engagement.

The LED Curtain weighs just 1.2 kilograms per square metre, with a slim mesh construction designed to reduce drone load and support stable flight. Engineered with up to 70% transparency and high wind permeability, the display performs reliably in outdoor, low-altitude conditions, maintaining both visual integrity and flight efficiency. Modular by design, the system supports scalable configurations through multi-piece splicing. Standard screen sizes range from 2×4 metres (8 square metres) up to 4×10 metres (40 square metres), offering flexibility for large-format displays. The mesh has a 50,000-hour lifespan and IP65-rated protection for long-term outdoor use.

The structure folds and rolls down to a compact volume of 90 square metres per cubic metre, keeping transport and labour requirements to a minimum. This makes the LED Curtain highly adaptable for touring productions and fast-turnaround installations. Content can be uploaded and managed through several control options, including a dedicated app, USB, live Wi-Fi from a PC, or 4G with one-click programme sending, allowing seamless integration with both pre-scheduled and live content delivery systems.

The display is compatible with RF5 drone models, supporting payloads of up to 50 kilograms. With the LED Curtain onboard, flight endurance reaches up to 20 minutes - enabling choreographed flyovers and synchronised visuals as part of live shows or promotional campaigns. Rob Bint, CEO of LED Studio, said: “As a company that lives and breathes innovation in LED, we’re always looking at what new mediums, formats or technologies will define the future of visual experience.

Drone-lifted LED curtains are one of those concepts that stretch the boundaries of what’s possible. They have the potential to change how we approach events, live shows and even architectural storytelling. Our role as a company isn’t just to build displays; it’s to lead the conversation about where LED can go, and how it can reshape the spaces and skies around us.”

Simpler, smarter meetings are changing conferencing

The Bring Your Own Meeting (BYOM) juggernaut is more than just a trend – it’s a movement, accelerating fast. More and more businesses are shunning rigid inroom video conferencing systems and embracing a new standard of plug-and-play simplicity. That’s the view of manufacturer Boom Collaboration who say one cable connection is becoming the holy grail for easier, smoother and more cost-effective remote collaboration deployments across the world. Any device, on any platform, in any room is the new mantra.

BYOM is favoured by employees as well as organisations, with over 75% of staff using their personal devic-

es for work related tasks. In addition, almost half say BYOM policies boost their productivity. Convenience, confidence and flexibility are some of the biggest user benefits according to the Texas-based company, following discussions with distributors and resellers around the world, backed by wider industry research. “From our evidence and experience, BYOM deployments are outstripping in-room by five to one,” confirmed Co-Founder, Holli Hulett. “With BYOM, users launch meetings from their own laptops via a single cable - no hand holding, no IT tickets.”

She continued: “It’s ideal for hot desking, hybrid schedules and reclaiming underused rooms that weren’t built for video collaboration. It’s not just about convenience. BYOM brings real advantages for teams and IT alike. For example, there’s simplicity and familiarity as users connect using devices they already know and trust. BYOM setups are generally more affordable than full in-room systems and scale easily from huddle rooms to large meeting spaces. There’s cross-platform compatibility and advanced tech integration too - pairing easily with AI-powered videobars, ePTZ cameras, and more.” Hulett added: “It’s generally time-saving with faster start-ups creating fewer delays and happier teams. The proof? Rooms equipped for BYOM get booked more often. It’s what people want to use.”

Fellow Founder Fredrik Hörnkvist highlighted: “Hybrid work didn’t just change how we meet, it changed where and why. Today, teams expect meeting equity, no matter where they’re dialling in from. BYOM delivers that balance. Boom’s ZYGO and ARC innovative hubs together with our Meeting Room In A Box kits are answering the

call, offering flexible, high-performance setups without complexity.” Its complete portfolio is available from Aylesbury-based Aldous Systems, as Hörnkvist continued: “Mostly laptops are being connected. Mac or PC, it doesn’t matter. People want to run their meetings their way, on their platform of choice, with full control. And with the right infrastructure, IT still gets the visibility and security it needs.”

Hörnkvist notes how growing numbers of companies aren’t throwing out their in-room systems, they’re upgrading them. “For us it’s about making hybrid setups easy, enabling both BYOM and wireless content sharing in one slick unit. BYOM-ready rooms aren’t just functional - they’re flexible, accessible, and futureproof.” What about downsides? The main challenge is security, with unmanaged or personal devices. But it’s manageable, Hulett emphasized. “Using hubs to connect via secure guest networks are a great way forward. Deploying centralised IT infrastructure that pushes updates and security patches, mitigates risks too. Encouraging personal responsibility for meeting etiquette and device hygiene is also important.” She concluded: “BYOM isn’t one-size-fits-all, but it’s definitely here to stay. It’s not about replacing every AV system - it’s about meeting people where they are. The most successful BYOM rollouts are tailored to real room use. Companies need to use the right mix of hardware (camera, speaker, hub) and have a clear roll-out strategy and stick to it. “Want smarter meetings without complication or compromise? BYOM is already the answer and the juggernaut is gaining momentum every day.”

Seamless Connect Universal Substructures available globally

Peerless-AV has announced the international rollout of its SEAMLESS Connect Universal Substructure Series. Purpose built for dvLED video wall deployments that are not designed to be wall mounted, the lineup includes floor stand, trolley, floor-to-wall mount, floor-to-ceiling mount and bolt down pedestal models. Engineered to support full system weight with strength and stability, the substructures make dvLED installations even more accessible across all venues regardless of existing wall structures. Corporate, retail, hospitality, transportation, showrooms, live events and entertainment venues will all benefit from the flexibility that this innovation provides.

The substructures are part of the new SEAMLESS Connect Universal Series launched in May 2025, which includes the multi award-winning LEDUNV SEAMLESS Connect Universal dvLED Mounting System for flat-towall and corner dvLED video walls. All models in the Series are now live on the online dvLED Configurator and are available as smart, parametric 3D files for architects and specifiers. “Flexibility is no longer a luxury; it’s the baseline,” said Nick Belcore, Executive VP at Peerless-AV. “As large-scale dvLED video walls become an expectation for dynamic AV experiences, it’s important for end users and integrators to understand the value of versatility and ease of integration to achieve new creative possibilities. The SEAMLESS Connect Universal Series has been one of our most significant launches to date and it is having a profound impact on the market as we conduct regional hands-on training with customers and showcase the products at events. Our substructures are modular, scalable, fit neatly in any environment with ultimate flexibility.”

Key enhancements over the previous generation include double the weight load per cabinet (up to 45kg) and less components for quicker installation. All five substructures feature the same slim, space saving design with a simplified setup and handy new components, such as a laser target tool for plumb adjustment, allowing for quick and easy installation. The lightweight aluminium frame of the substructures simplifies ship-

ping, handling and installation while integrated channels protect and keep cables hidden.

The LEDBD Bolt Down Pedestal incorporates improved quad post levelling on each base plate (25mm adjustment), enabling installers to make precise micro adjustments at all four corners. This ensures that the structure is vertically aligned and perfectly flat plane for the mounting system and cabinets. The LEDFS Floor Stand has height adjustable feet which achieve the desired flat surface and allow for easy display repositioning. The LEDMT Trolley has heavy-duty locking casters with a smooth rolling movement for convenient room-to-room maneuverability. The LEDFC Floor-to-Ceiling Mount incorporates quad post levelling (25mm), accommodates up to 3.6m high video walls and the ceiling-attach brackets have an extendable reach up to 500mm for ceilings with a maximum height of 4.1m. The LEDFW Floor-to-Wall Mount incorporates quad post levelling (25mm), accommodates up to 6m high video walls and has wall tie-back brackets with up to 125mm adjustment to achieve the required structural rigidity.

The substructures are available in preconfigured models (up to 8x8 on specific models) or can scale to any customer size and configuration requirements. The now lighter patent pending Universal Spacer (sold separate-

ly) provides vertical extrusion spacing based on preconfigured display size options. It can also be used as a caliper for non-standard display sizes. To complete the dvLED video wall, the substructures can be fitted with an optional LEDTK Trim Kit Accessory, which conceals exposed sides and corners for a finished, aesthetically pleasing appearance. The kit is compatible with the entire SEAMLESS Connect Universal Series and has a depth-adjustable design to suit various installation needs.

For direct to wall mounting, the LEDUNV Wall Mount remains the only universal mount on the market providing the slimmest depth, highest tri-axis adjustment, widest latching cabinet compatibility and limitless size and configuration, including large-scale and inside/outside corner-wrapping displays.

Peerless-AV is making the design and specification process faster, easier and more flexible with the launch of exclusive Revit files now available alongside its innovative dvLED Configurator. Specifiers and architects now have a seamless way to incorporate Peerless-AV dvLED wall mounts and substructures directly into their project plans, cutting down design time and reducing turnaround with greater efficiency. What makes these tools unique is the use of the industry’s first smart, par-

ametrically driven models. Instead of being static, the 3D files automatically adapt to user selections, such as display brand, model, configuration, and video wall size for most displays. This means users have a ready-touse design every time, without needing to create or download multiple separate files. The SEAMLESS Connect Universal Series – mount, substructures and trim kit - is available through Peerless-AV’s global distribution and reseller network.

Lightware’s Taurus DCX makes signal management more accessible

Lightware recognises the growing demand for cost-effective, high-performance AV-over-IP solutions, highlighting their Taurus DCX series as a powerful solution in modern workspaces. “We take pride in listening to our customers and designing products that align with their real-world needs,” says Gergely Vida, CEO of Lightware. “We are highlighting the Taurus DCX in direct response to feedback from customers. We aim to bring professional-grade signal management to as many environments as possible, and the DCX’s lower cost and flexibility allows even more professionals to enjoy these benefits. Plus, robust IT security features like 802.1x authentication keeps networks secure.”

The Taurus DCX is a sophisticated yet affordable solution in Lightware’s renowned line-up of signal management solutions, ideal for educational or corporate settings where maximizing budgets whilst providing future-proof technology is a priority. It was specifically designed to provide a solution for users who need video transmission and laptop charging but don’t require USB extension functionality. Unlike the more expensive Taurus models, the DCX offers a streamlined setup, reducing costs without sacrificing performance. The series offers two models: the DCX-3x1-TPX-TX10 and DCX3x1-TPN-TX10. The TPX is ideal for straightforward, point-to-point installations, whilst the TPN is perfect for larger, networked setups. When paired with their corresponding receivers – such as the HDMI-UCX-TPXRX107 and HDMI-TPN-RX107A-SR, these transmitters enable AV signals to travel across longer distances, whilst still maintaining high quality.

Based on direct customer comments, the Taurus DCX focuses on the essential features needed for efficient and straightforward setups. With 1 USB-C and 2 HDMI inputs plus 1 HDMI output, users can easily switch between various sources like laptops, cameras and media players, and output to their desired screen. SDVoE compatibility ensures reliable, long-distance transmission over a single CAT cable up to 100 meters, including 4K UHD video support – something that a standard switcher cannot do. In TPN systems, distances can be extended further by adding switches. Additionally, USB-C charging up to 100W makes the Taurus DCX an all-in-one solution for modern workplaces and classrooms.

By combining switching and long-distance transmis-

sion capabilities over SDVoE in a single, compact unit, the Taurus DCX eliminates the need for multiple devices, reducing both equipment and installation costs whilst minimizing points of failure. LARA (Lightware Advanced Remote Access) integration into Taurus DCX enables remote monitoring, control and configuration over a network, providing even more convenience and cost savings for system administrators and AV professionals. “While basic HDMI switchers may be suitable for small-scale needs, they can’t compare to the Taurus DCX when it comes to long-distance transmission and high-resolution video delivery,” says Vida. “The Taurus DCX is an ideal solution for anyone seeking quality AVover-IP signal management at an affordable price point.”

Nureva granted another US patent for Microphone Mist

Nureva Inc. has announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has issued an additional patent for the company’s Microphone Mist technology, the groundbreaking platform behind every Nureva audio system. Further demonstrating the company’s leadership in simplifying large-room audio, this patent acknowledges Nureva’s unique approach to amplifying the voice of a presenter while simultaneously providing full-room microphone pickup in both meeting and learning spaces. The result of this approach is greater in-room intelligibility of a presenter’s voice while everyone in the room is still heard clearly by remote participants. Full-room pickup also ensures that all aspects of a meeting or learning session are accurately captured for recording purposes or use with AI agents.

US patent 12,342,137 discloses the ability to simultaneously use a discrete microphone for voice amplification and a microphone array for whole-room pickup within the same conferencing session. With this unique hybrid capability enabled by Microphone Mist technology, an instructor or a presenter using a wireless microphone can have their voice amplified through the Nureva audio system’s speakers for those in the room while, at the same time, their voice is sent to remote participants via common UC&C platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom. In-room voices continue to be captured by the array, so everyone is heard remotely. Key to this, echo cancellation remains active for both the remote participants’ speech and the presenter’s amplified speech from the in-room speakers, preserving the simplicity of full-room array pickup for conferencing, lecture capture and meeting recording, while boosting presenter clarity in the space.

“Customers have asked for a simple way to amplify the voice of a presenter in the room while simultaneously letting remote participants hear the comments and questions from everyone involved in the discussion,” said Nancy Knowlton, Nureva’s CEO. “This patent recognizes the uniqueness of our approach, and the performance Microphone Mist technology delivers.”

Bringing Ambilight to business

Reaffirming PPDS’ unparalleled and inherent commitment to delivering highly innovative and world first products and solutions to the global market, the two new Philips MediaSuite models – available in 2026 and just a part of the next generation plans for the range – signal a quantum leap in delivering personalised in-room entertainment and immersive visual experiences to guestrooms, with the industry’s most advanced and connected all in one smart hotel TV family, along with the first hotel TV of its kind to achieve the European Energy Label E rating. Copied but never replicated – and now synonymous with many leading hotels, including the likes of Accor, IHG, Marriott and Radisson, plus leading cruise lines – Philips MediaSuite continues to focus on bringing seamless home-from-home experiences to guestrooms, supporting and catering to all visual entertainment needs for guests, young and old.

As with previous and existing Philips MediaSuite models, the new 6000 and 7000 Series will ship Netflix ready and, continuing as a complete Google certified TV , Philips MediaSuite remain the only hotel TVs bringing the complete Google Mobile Services package, including Google Cast integrated technology as standard. Built into the TVs, guests have the freedom to take control of their viewing experiences by casting their preferred streaming accounts securely on the big screen. This powerful package also brings guests secure access to thousands of popular apps on the Google Play store, creating even more entertainment options, including news, sport, games, YouTube, and many more.

Adding even greater choice and familiarity for users, Philips MediaSuite TVs are now also compatible with Apple AirPlay. With over 2.25 billon active Apple devices worldwide – including iPhones and iPads – Apple’s proprietary wireless streaming technology allows users to stream their audio, video, and photos directly to, and through, their Philips MediaSuite TV. All personal information is immediately deleted upon checkout – including any login information – for full peace of mind and data security.

Taking things to the next level, new generation Philips MediaSuite models extend beyond TV entertainment to support the ever-growing popularity of online gaming. According to statistics, the worldwide gaming market was worth an estimated $27.97 billion in 2024, with global gaming penetration among online users over 83 per cent, with smartphones among the most popular access methods. These new MediaSuite TVs come cloud gaming ready – offering hoteliers the option to offer guests easy access to their favourite games via their personal subscriptions, directly accessed on the big screen via the Cloud, with no need for a console. Guests can either bring their own controller to use, or the hotel may choose to have controllers available to lend or rent, keeping them in the game, even when they are away.

Speaking about the launch, Jeroen Verhaeghe, Global Director Product Strategy and Partnerships for Professional TV at PPDS, commented: “In 2019, we launched the very first Philips MediaSuite, transforming the perception of traditional hotel TVs forever. For too long, hotel TVs had failed to keep pace with how guests want to

consume and access their preferred content — whether linear, streaming, casting, or other online applications – and we changed that almost instantaneously. Now, we are changing it up again, going above and beyond to bring guests’ experiences up to date – not just matching their expectations, but surpassing them.”

The cinematic experience would not be complete without great audio and, adding to the visual performance, these next generation Philips MediaSuite TVs include a custom engineered speaker for unrivalled audio performance. Bluetooth headphone functionality also brings wireless freedom for guests and customers who prefer to connect their own wireless headphones for discreet viewing — ideal for families, late night watchers, gamers, or those simply seeking total immersion. The Bluetooth connection is automatically severed at checkout.

Streaming further ahead of the competition, and taking guest room experiences far beyond the screen, the Philips MediaSuite 6000 Series – 43”, 50”, 55”, 65”, 75”, and 85” – uniquely features Ambilight technology, creating stunning illuminated and immersive experiences in the hotel room. A true winner for consumers for more than two decades, with over 35 million Philips Ambilight TVs sold since the technology’s introduction in 2004, the integrated Ambilight technology works by projecting lights from the LEDs at the back of the TV onto the wall behind. These dynamic lights change colour and intensity to match what is happening on the screen in real time, creating an immersive ambient lighting effect that makes the screen seem bigger and the visuals more engaging. Moreover, the benefits of Ambilight span far beyond the experience itself, helping to reduce eye strain for better wellbeing.

Hoteliers can, alternatively, effortlessly customise the lighting to suit their branding, together with the style or decor of each room to create a unique atmosphere from the second guests open the door. Jan Van Hecke, Global Product Manager for Professional TV at PPDS, adds: “Philips MediaSuite with Ambilight transforms the viewing experience in a way no others can. It’s something that must be experienced to be believed. Figures show that over 80 per cent of consumers who own a Philips Ambilight TV would purchase one again when it’s time to upgrade. With this new Series, hotel guests can experience the same benefits – and for those who don’t already have an Ambilight TV, it will open a new experience and bring excellent returns.”

Sleek, stylish, and designed for places where space matters, including in smaller boutique hotel rooms and in cruise ship cabins, the Philips MediaSuite 7000 Series UltraSlim brings all the features synonymous with the range, while measuring in to stand less than 3cm proud of the wall. Slimline does not always mean small in size, and this sleek and stylish hotel TV will be available in an array of sizes, including 24” and 32” (FHD and ideal for cruise ship crew cabins), 43”, 50”, 55” and 65” (4K). The 7000 Series is also protected against the harmful effects of sea air – whether at beachside resorts or on cruise ships, via an additional layer of conformal coating on the circuitry, helping to defend against

the ingress of salt, dust and humidity.

Allowing integrators to develop the solution to best suit the hotel, Philips MediaSuite TVs are designed to be easily integrated into the hotel’s IPTV setup. Giving guests intuitive channel control, while also offering operators the flexibility to manage services from a central location. Meanwhile, the triple tuner within the TV also allows hotels to offer cable, satellite, and terrestrial services in one channel list.

Helping to control the amount of data used in any given guest room, the unique Bandwidth Guard on Philips MediaSuite TVs can be activated to limit demand on the network infrastructure, reducing data and optimising the performance of every in-room TV. This unique to PPDS feature also helps to reduce operating costs for hoteliers, lowering data purchasing requirements, and allowing for less complex network topology. Also bringing the opportunity for hotels and businesses without access to high grade connections to provide streaming services with their existing infrastructure. Jeroen elaborated: “Our new Bandwidth Guard has already been welcomed with enthusiasm by hotel groups and independents alike. This unique new feature will allow hotels – some of whom have not been able to invest in 4K models until now – to offer their guests 4K content without the requirement for a transition to fibre. It really does change the picture.”

Aligned with PPDS’ proud history of developing and delivering better return on investment, both new Series of the next generation Philips MediaSuite TVs have enhanced performance while reducing energy consumption. The first hotel TVs of their kind to achieve the new European Energy Label E rating on the 24”, 32”, 50”, 55”, 65”, 75”, and 85” models, with an F rating for the 43” models, Philips MediaSuite TVs also bring a range of further sustainability benefits and cost savings to hoteliers. The Ambilight LEDs on the Philips MediaSuite 6000 Series have been designed to consume very little power, while often reducing the need for switching on other lights in the room, and reducing eye strain. Mirroring all current lines, the latest MediaSuite TVs can be managed remotely using PPDS’ exclusive CMND platform or via a Hotel PMS, helping to reduce site visits while enhancing staff efficiencies and reducing interruptions to guests.

Designed on an Android OS, firmware can be regularly updated with the latest features and functionality, allowing the TVs to perform like new in every room, extending product lifetime and reducing the need for unnecessary hardware upgrades and associated electronic waste. Jeroen Verhaeghe concluded: “The new Philips MediaSuite 6000 and 7000 Series indisputably make this our – and the industry’s – most advanced and diverse range of dedicated hotel TVs yet. Our ambition is always to lead, never to follow. We’ve taken our time, taken feedback from partners and customers, and used our expertise in the hospitality industry to take this already market leading range of TVs to even greater levels, bringing greater value to hotels around the world.” The new Philips MediaSuite 6000 and 7000 Series will be showcasing on Philips booth 3P500 at ISE 2026.

Praevar unveils Vanguard Series and expands into U.S. with Sealoc

Praevar announced the launch of Vanguard, a new series line of retail-focused, outdoor-ready LCD displays. Engineered for affordability, durability, and ease of installation, the Vanguard Series brings Praevar’s trusted performance and reliability into a more economical solution tailored for North American retail, commercial real estate, campus, and event centre environments.

As part of this milestone, Praevar is also proud to announce its first U.S. dealer partnership with Sealoc, an industry leader in outdoor digital displays and engagement solutions. Sealoc will integrate the Vanguard Series into its product portfolio, bringing Praevar’s innovative new line to a wider range of customers across the United States.

Building on the legacy of Praevar’s flagship Placard VP2500, the Vanguard Series offers a cost-effective alternative without compromise. Designed specifically for North American construction challenges, including wall

variations and vandalism concerns, the series provides flexibility and durability in a sleek, modern format.

Key features include:

• All-weather resilience – weather resistant for indoor/ outdoor use.

• Flexible configurations – wall-mounted or free-standing units in 55”, 65”, and 75” sizes, available in portrait or landscape.

• LCD Display technology – providing crisp, bright visuals for outdoor and high-ambient environments.

• Multiple player hardware and software options available, including optional OS (Windows, Linux, Android) –suitable for use with any existing network.

• Media players can be embedded into the enclosure as an open board (lower cost and extended life of player) or attached to the rear as a boxed player - use what you already have.

• Multiple connectivity options available (Cellular, WiFi, Fiber) – use your existing infrastructure or simplify connectivity if none exists.

• Service-first design – swing-mount frame for easy front service access.

• Revenue-ready platform – ideal for wayfinding, retail facades, directories, campus messaging, and advertising.

• Proven durability and low TCO – backed by Praevar’s warranty and quick-response service.

• Maintenance free – install and forget!

The Vanguard Series has already undergone successful pilot testing at a shopping centre, setting the stage for wider deployments in malls, banks, campuses, shopping centres, and event venues.

Praevar’s partnership with Sealoc marks a significant step in expanding its presence across the United States. Known for its proprietary Weatherloc technology, Sealoc delivers premium outdoor digital displays and end-toend engagement solutions for some of the world’s most recognisable brands. By adding the Vanguard Series to its lineup, Sealoc strengthens its ability to provide scalable, serviceable, and impactful digital signage experiences.

“Partnering with Sealoc as our first U.S. dealer is an exciting milestone for Praevar,” said Ralph Idems, CEO at Praevar. “Their reputation for delivering exceptional outdoor solutions align perfectly with our commitment to reliability, serviceability, and customer success. Together, we’re making digital signage more accessible and more effective for brands across North America.”

“At Sealoc, we pride ourselves on delivering digital signage solutions that thrive in the toughest outdoor environments,” said Frank Boyd, CEO at Sealoc. “Partnering with Praevar was a natural fit, as they share our reputation for durable, long-lasting signage solutions. The new Vanguard Series perfectly complements our mission to provide customers with reliable, serviceable, and visually impactful displays. We’re excited to bring this line to market and help retailers, campuses, and venues across the U.S. unlock new levels of engagement.” The Vanguard Series will be available for shipping beginning January 1, 2026.

Bang & Olufsen centennial editions

Bang & Olufsen has launched The Centennial Collection, a special edition release inspired by the brand’s heritage, paying tribute to a century of uncompromising design and sound. The Centennial Collection draws from decades of design inspiration by blending archival details with contemporary craftsmanship, reimagining three of Bang & Olufsen’s iconic products Beoplay H100, Beosound A5, and Beosound A9 5th Gen.

“Since our founding in 1925, timeless design has been at the heart of everything we craft. The Centennial Collection honours our past, celebrates our present, and looks to the future. It is a tribute to the icons that have shaped Bang & Olufsen and to the enduring values that define our legacy,” says Kristian Teär, CEO of Bang & Olufsen. The Collection celebrates defining decades of Bang & Olufsen’s history. From the checkered grill patterns of early radios to the vibrant colour palette of the 1970s in Century Red, Chestnut Brown and Century Blue, each detail carries the spirit of its time. The brushed aluminum surfaces perfected in the 1980s reflect the raw beauty of the brand’s signature material, while the refined leather accents and precision-turned dials speak to the design codes of the last decade. Each product in the collection is finished with the B&O Est. 1925 Anniversary logo and carries a tribute to the founder’s vision of Peter Bang and Svend Olufsen: “A never failing will to create only the best.”

Beoplay H100 combines immersive sound with a design crafted to stand the test of time. Optimised for Dolby Atmos, the headphones feature titanium drivers and advanced noise cancellation for an elevated listening experience. The leather headband in Century Red complements the Chestnut Brown inner headband, paired with Chestnut Brown leather ear cushions and refined Century Blue detailing for a vibrant contrast. The glass disc in natural silver tone features the anniversary logo, while a matching leather pouch in Century Red with accents of Century Blue completes the design to create a contemporary collectible infused with archival character.

Beosound A5 is a powerful portable speaker with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, long-lasting battery life, and

built-in wireless charging, designed for effortless listening at home or outdoors. This special edition features a paper raffia weave in Beige and Chestnut Brown, reinterpreting the iconic chequered speaker grills of the 1950s and echoing the textures of Bang & Olufsen’s earliest radios. A brushed aluminum frame, Century Red leather strap, and anniversary engravings underscore its craftsmanship, while the Century Blue cable adds a touch of playful vitality.

An icon of minimalist design, Beosound A9 unites sculptural form with room-filling sound, powered by seven finely tuned drivers. This reimagined edition is wrapped in Kvadrat’s Centennial Cadence fabric, a bold checkered weave in Century Blue and Chestnut Brown that brings a dynamic, contemporary vision. The natural aluminum ring and legs are finished with a heritage-inspired brushed treatment recalling Bang & Olufsen’s iconic aesthetic of the 1980s. Anniversary engravings honour the founders’ enduring vision, while the striking Century Blue feet and cable add a vibrant finishing touch.

Beosound A5 Century Weave (RRP £1250 / €1500 / $1750), Beoplay A9 Century Blue (RRP £3800 / €4500 / $5500), and Beoplay H100 Century Brown (RRP £1500 / €1800 / $2300) form a special-edition collection, available from 22 October at selected Bang & Olufsen stores.

Optoma newest addition to home cinema range

Optoma, the No.1 4K UHD and DLP projector brand in EMEA, has announced the launch of the UHZ58LV, the latest innovation in its award-winning home cinema lineup. Designed to deliver breathtaking visuals, vibrant colour fidelity, and unmatched reliability, the UHZ58LV transforms any living space into a cinematic masterpiece.

Boasting 3,000 lumens of brightness and 95% DCI-P3 colour coverage, the UHZ58LV delivers ultra-vivid, lifelike images with stunning clarity. At the heart of its performance is an advanced dual-laser light source, which not only ensures consistent brightness for up to 30,000 hours, but also significantly enhances colour depth and accuracy. By using two laser diodes, the UHZ58LV achieves a wider colour gamut and more precise colour reproduction—bringing out subtle tonal variations and delivering a richer, more immersive visual experience. This laser technology eliminates the need for lamp replacements while reducing energy consumption, making it both powerful and practical.

Equipped with Optoma’s exclusive PureEngine Ultra image enhancement suite, the UHZ58LV dynamically refines contrast, sharpness, and motion for superior realism. With HDR10+ support, viewers experience deeper blacks, brighter highlights, and cinematic contrast— just as the director intended. For purists and professionals alike, the UHZ58LV includes Filmmaker Mode, preserving the original frame rate, aspect ratio,

and colour settings to deliver content exactly as envisioned by its creators. Additionally, ISF Day and Night modes allow for expert calibration, ensuring optimal image quality in any lighting environment—whether you’re watching a midday documentary or a midnight thriller. Designed for modern living spaces, the UHZ58LV features a sleek, compact chassis and flexible installation options including 1.6x zoom, vertical lens shift, four-corner correction, and 360° projection—making setup effortless in any room. With Dolby Atmos passthrough, WiSA certification, and eARC compatibility, the UHZ58LV delivers rich, immersive sound. Gamers will appreciate its ultra-low input lag—as low as 8.5ms at 1080p/240Hz—for smooth, responsive gameplay. Oliver Blundell, Project Manager at Optoma, comments: “The UHZ58LV makes advanced laser projection more accessible without compromising quality. It delivers the cinematic performance Optoma is known for, sharp 4K resolution, brilliant colour, and intelligent visual processing—in a compact, flexible design that fits beautifully into modern homes.”

Kramer brings seamless and secure

4K collaboration

Kramer has announced the launch of VIA Connect 3, the next-generation wireless presentation and collaboration solution designed for hybrid work and education environments. The latest addition to Kramer’s popular VIA line, the new system delivers secure, high-quality wireless connectivity and 4K presentation capabilities in an ultra-compact 9x9cm form factor.

Purpose-built for seamless collaboration, VIA Connect 3 allows iOS, Android, Chromebook, PC, and Mac users to connect instantly to any main display – without the need for dongles or additional software. The device supports AirPlay, Miracast, and browser-based connections, ensuring effortless compatibility across platforms. Engineered for professional meeting rooms, classrooms, and hybrid collaboration setups, VIA Connect 3 supports 4K video streaming and advanced conferencing integration. Users can wirelessly connect to in-room AV equipment, cameras, and microphones, while the calendar widget provides one-click access to scheduled sessions.

Security and flexibility are a core focus of VIA Connect 3, featuring 1024-bit encryption, 802.1x network authentication, and dynamic room codes – all backed by third-party security certification. The Dual wi-fi allows access point, Miracast and LAN connection simultaneously, with hardwired LAN providing flexible configurations to keep internal networks secure and protected. VIA Connect 3 also provides cloud-based management through Kramer’s VIA Site Management (VSM) software, allowing IT teams to deploy, monitor, and update devices remotely and securely. “VIA Connect 3 is all about collaboration with simplicity, speed, and security,” said Theo Van Nierkerk, VIA product manager at

Kramer. “With enterprise-grade encryption and cross-platform compatibility, it provides IT managers and users with the flexibility and confidence they need in today’s hybrid spaces.”

VIA Connect 3: Key features

•Quick, Reliable Wireless Connectivity – 2.4GHz/5GHz Wi-Fi with MIMO antennas for stable, high-speed connections.

•Clientless Connectivity – Connect instantly using AirPlay, Miracast, or a browser.

•High-Quality 4K Video Streaming – Crisp playback using VIA’s multimedia engine.

•Optimized for Video Conferencing – Wireless integration with pro-grade cameras and AV systems.

•Comprehensive Collaboration Tools – Whiteboard, chat, file sharing, and multi-user display.

•Seamless Live Streaming – RTMP/RTMPS support for YouTube, Kaltura, Panopto, and more.

•Compact and Flexible Installation – Mount discreetly behind any display or projector.

Leyard announces Komodo Series ultra-fine pixel pitch LED

Leyard Europe is pleased to announce the introduction of the Komodo Series, a premium family of ultra-fine pixel pitch Chip-on-Board (COB) MicroLED video wall displays engineered for exceptional indoor visual performance and long-term reliability for applications as diverse as corporate, meeting spaces, video production, private cinema and other environments that demand the ultimate visual performance. Available in 0.7, 0.9 and 1.2mm pixel pitches, the Komodo Series represents the new flagship of Leyard Europe’s fine pitch LED portfolio, delivering exceptional image quality and reliable performance for the most visually discerning indoor applications. The new solution features a striking DCI-p3 colour gamut for professional-grade colour reproduction and 1,000 nits of brightness to support dynamic image reproduction in any indoor environment.

The Komodo Series is powered by Megapixel’s award-winning HELIOS LED Processing Platform, supporting cutting-edge video standards and delivering modular and flexible inputs to allow for endless creativity. Developed from the ground up in collaboration with Megapixel, Komodo Series features LED display cabinet electronics specifically designed to fully leverage the Megapixel platform and sets a new standard for visual excellence. HELIOS is a powerful and secure LED processing platform offering support for 8K inputs and output with a small one RU size. Featuring multiple advancements in video and colour handling with high bandwidth architecture, the system is ideal for applica-

tions as diverse as corporate settings, control rooms, video production and private cinema.

In addition to 100 Gbps (G) ST2110 capability, a standard developed by the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) to define professional media over an IP network, Komodo Series features an upgradable design to support future standards and can be configured to meet customer application needs. Delivering a range of pixel pitches and multiple cabinet sizes, the new flagship COB product family allows users to achieve more industry standard resolutions and formats compared to conventional LED platforms. The Komodo Series is designed to support today’s most in-demand formats, including 16:9 and 21:9. With the ability to build video walls from native Full HD and 4K to 8K and ultra-wide 5K, the flagship COB LED family delivers scalable, future-ready visual performance.

In corporate and education applications that benefit from ultra-wide 5K resolution, the Komodo Series is ideal for conferencing, unified communications and hybrid collaboration. For applications demanding expansive or panoramic viewing experiences, it delivers an immersive, cinematic-scale seamless display that maximizes visual impact. The Komodo Series features the latest advancements in COB technology, including improved colour accuracy, high pixel density, sharper imagery and deeper blacks. Customers also benefit from exceptional durability as well as energy efficiency.

In addition to an advanced manufacturing process

that sorts and pairs only uniform LEDs together, eliminating abnormalities, Komodo Series uses an alternating LED orientation to produce improved viewing angles and colour uniformity. This helps ensure the highest quality viewing experiences, while enhancing the inherent benefits of COB technology. The launch of Komodo Series follows the introduction of the DirectLight Essential Series in May and rounds out the industry leader’s portfolio of COB displays. Baseline, mid-tier and premium offerings are now available, each delivering enhanced image quality, durability and energy efficiency to meet the widest range of customer needs. “As the market for COB LED displays continues to expand, our goal was to deliver a solution that truly redefines performance expectations,” said Lubos Mraz, Product Manager at Leyard Europe. “The Komodo Series sets a new benchmark for premium visual performance by combining our most advanced LED design with industry-leading energy efficiency and durability that professionals can rely on.” The new Komodo Series is available to order now and will begin shipping in December 2025 through Leyard Europe’s network of authorised resellers.

The new era of video conferencing: seamless, smarter, and

Video conferencing has come a long way from patchy calls and grainy webcams. Today’s best-in-class meeting spaces combine intelligent collaboration platforms such as Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms with high-end AV - intelligent cameras, DSP-based audio, interactive displays and immersive LED walls to create seamless hybrid experiences. “The biggest mistake people make is thinking VC is just software,” says Louise Abbey, Marketing Director at Solstice AV. “The experience lives or dies on the quality of the AV design - the audio, the cameras, the lighting and the displays. But equally, none of it works properly without a solid network underneath.”

The most striking change in recent years has been the way AV and VC now work hand-in-hand to make hybrid meetings feel effortless. Large corporates and universities are leading the way with AI-powered meeting spaces that don’t just connect people – they help to run the meeting. Intelligent cameras, ceiling-mounted microphones and DSP-managed audio give remote participants a genuine seat at the table. Auto-framing, real-time transcription and even automated action-point capture are now common. In the design and engineering world, immersive VC is transforming workflows. Teams review complex 3D models together on interactive displays with ultra-HD cameras and AR overlays, cutting down travel and speeding up approvals. Even law firms and local authorities are embracing multi-camera rooms with AI-driven framing to deliver meeting equity – ensuring everyone, whether in-room or remote, feels part of the conversation. “When the technology supports people in the room

“The market remains buoyant, particularly in the UK. SMEs, education and public-sector organisations are driving demand, with manufacturing increasingly using VC for remote site inspections and quality control,” Louise Abbey, Marketing Director at Solstice AV.

and those dialling in equally well, you can see the difference in engagement and decision-making,” notes Abbey. “That sense of equity is fundamental.”

Behind every smooth hybrid meeting is a network capable of carrying high-bandwidth video and real-time audio without delay or jitter. As more devices – intelligent cameras, beam-forming microphones, sensors, collaboration bars and displays – join the network, capacity, prioritisation and security become critical. “Resellers who plan the AV and the network together deliver a far better experience – and far fewer support calls.”

Demand is rising for enterprise-grade, AV-friendly switching, which can prioritise time-sensitive media streams and power devices via PoE. Network-based monitoring tools are also helping integrators and IT teams support rooms across whole campuses or hotel estates. In the past 12 months, we’ve seen big leaps forward both in the intelligence of VC platforms and in supporting AV hardware:

•AI meeting assistants now routinely handle transcription, translation and automated meeting notes without third-party apps.

•All-in-one video bars have become the go-to for huddle and mid-size rooms, bundling camera, microphone and speakers in one neat device.

•AI-driven multi-camera arrays for boardrooms dynamically frame whoever’s speaking, while beam-forming microphones capture voices clearly even in challenging spaces.

•Displays have evolved, with interactive touchscreens and even early AR functionality appearing in design-led environments.

•Better network infrastructure and end-to-end encryption have improved security and reliability, cutting the risk of call drops.

“Ease of use is the key to adoption,” Abbey explains. “If a room takes ten minutes to set up or the sound is patchy, people will avoid it. Our role is to make it intuitive - walk in, tap once, and you’re live.”

But VC is no longer just a corporate tool. SMEs, councils, education and healthcare providers are investing in well-designed hybrid spaces for everything from internal collaboration to client presentations, training and live events. The return-to-office push has changed expectations. Organisations want rooms that look professional on camera, are quick to use and deliver a consistent experience across multiple sites. Interoperability is now critical, as buyers don’t want to be locked into a single platform. Manufacturers have responded with smarter, integrated solutions: video bars with built-in intelligence for smaller rooms, fully integrated AV ecosystems for larger spaces, plus analytics for usage and uptime, and stronger security features to keep IT teams happy.

Some old frustrations persist – such as “Zoom fatigue”. Connectivity issues are less common thanks to better networks and hardware optimisation. Privacy concerns are being addressed with stronger encryption, anonymisation tools and background-blurring. Still, many complaints boil down to poor AV design: laggy displays, bad camera angles or tinny audio. The fix is to prioritise

quality AV and a properly configured network that delivers the performance these devices need.

Most organisations continue to standardise on Teams, Zoom or Webex, but how they deploy them is changing: •Smaller rooms favour certified all-in-one bars for ease and consistency.

•Flagship boardrooms still use custom AV integrations: dedicated cameras, ceiling mics, DSPs and often large LED displays.

The market remains buoyant, particularly in the UK. SMEs, education and public-sector organisations are driving demand, with manufacturing increasingly using VC for remote site inspections and quality control. Pricing has been relatively stable, but integrated, value-driven solutions that combine strong AV with secure, managed networking are winning out.

AR and VR collaboration will gain traction in design and engineering, while sustainability will stay high on the agenda, with buyers favouring energy-efficient displays, smart power management and consolidated network control. “The real opportunity for integrators is in tying it all together,” Abbey says. “Platform intelligence plus world-class AV hardware and AV-ready networking is what makes meetings productive, inclusive and even inspiring.” For too long, organisations have thought of video conferencing as a software problem. The truth is that the experience depends on both the AV and the network, from camera placement and acoustic treatment to the switches and QoS settings that carry the media traffic.

LED video walls are becoming a must-have in flagship rooms, creating a sense of presence for both in-room and remote participants. When the AV is right and the network is reliable, meetings stop being a chore and start becoming a genuine asset. “VC should be invisible in the best possible way,” Abbey concludes. “You walk in, the room works, and you can focus on the conversation. That’s when technology really delivers value.”

The future of learning: creating immersive classrooms with Dante

Like many rural school districts around the world, the educational systems in certain areas of the Netherlands are facing major challenges. Some areas are grappling with a growing teacher shortage, and simultaneously, a declining number of students due to population shifts to urban areas. Compulsory subjects are well-supported, but niche courses often lack the student numbers needed to justify offering them, leaving schools unable to make them viable to offer.

That changed in one rural district when teaching staff at three schools in the town of Sneek made the decision to find a new way to confront this challenge. Educators at RSG Magister Alvinus, Aeres VMBO, and CVO Bogerman schools wanted to find a way to share resources between the three schools without disrupting timetables, and without requiring students to travel to different campuses. “We were trying to work out how to bring together different groups of students from different schools into one large virtual classroom,” says Mart Mojet, STEM teacher at RSG Magister Alvinus. “From our experience during Covid, we knew we could teach using something like Zoom. However, it wasn’t a good experience for the teacher or the students. We all wanted something more immersive.”

The teachers envisioned a Virtual Campus with an immersive classroom design, one that could transform the traditional remote learning experience from a flat computer interaction into something that felt natural and connected for both students and teachers. What’s more, “We wanted technology, but without feeling the technology or being aware of the technology,” says Thorba Wierstra, Geography teacher and IT policy officer at Bogerman, one of the three schools in the Zuid-West Fryslân municipality. “We wanted to find new technology to use not because it’s technology, but because we wanted a better way for our students to learn, for us to be better teachers, and to make things possible that were not possible before.”

The teachers started talking to AV professionals about how to create what they envisioned: “We worked through a two-year process with plenty of false starts, as we kept running into the technical limitations of what is possible with modern AV equipment,” says Mojet. The first breakthrough came when the teachers began speaking to Rene Simmers, Business Development at NFGD Audiovisuals, who was able to understand the problem and knew the right technology to solve it.

The vision was for each of the three classrooms to be equipped with interconnected screens, all positioned relative to each room’s perspective, to give the feeling of one joined-up classroom for all. This setup would allow students to see their teacher and peers across multiple locations as if they were all in the same room, breaking down the barriers of physical distance and enabling students to collaborate and interact in real time. NFGD and the educators worked closely together to collaboratively

explore how to create a sense of shared presence in a virtual environment. The final design relied on five screens in a classroom, their arrangement differing depending upon the teacher’s location. Two screens face the teacher at the left and right of on-site students, representing the positions of the other two classrooms and giving the instructor the ability to face the off-site students. The other screens are arranged such that the students also directly face the instructor, with their offsite classmates either to their left or right, just as in a traditional classroom. With this setup, all participants share the feeling of presence in one classroom, together.

To achieve the sense of location immersion, Shure ceiling microphones capture the sound in each location, while small AIDA point-of-view cameras capture the students from distinct locations at the proper physical angle, and Audac soundbars placed under each screen provide localized, directional sound. To deliver the immersive classroom experience with this structure, the layout critically needed to be supported by precise audio and video synchronisation and imperceptible latency. “One of the biggest issues that you could have with a video feed,” says Douwe Hummeling, IT support

at Aeres VMBO, “is if there’s a single split second of delay, that could ruin the entire experience.”

This had been a long-term challenge for the project: real-time interaction through cameras, microphones, and screens had to be seamless and natural, especially over the distances between the schools in which each classroom was located. NFGD was challenged with delivering a system that could achieve a latency of under 4 milliseconds, the level of performance essential for maintaining the flow of conversation and collaboration in a classroom setting, where even slight delays can disrupt learning. For NFGD, the solution was obvious: Dante AV Ultra. “Dante AV Ultra was the right choice for this project for multiple reasons,” says Wim van Dijk, CEO at Netchange, the AVoIP specialist partner and distributor involved in the project. “The most important thing was the timing and the clocking. With Dante AV Ultra, you have one single point of reference where you can sync your audio and video, and you know that at the other end it is going to look really good.”

Dante AV Ultra, the high-fidelity video encoding developed by Audinate for sub-frame latency and visually lossless image quality, ensured natural, smooth, and perfectly synced communication between locations. Its

precise synchronization of audio and video streams ensures that teachers’ voices and movements are perfectly aligned, regardless of the distance between locations. “This technology is magnificent because it’s in real time, so there’s no delay whatsoever,” says Hummeling. “It feels like you’re in one classroom together with everyone else, and it just feels normal. The whole goal of this entire operation is to make it feel as lifelike as we can. The technology is present, but it doesn’t feel as if it’s present.”

“As a teacher, I don’t want to be bothered with the solution; it just needs to work,” says Wierstra. This requirement meant that NFGD needed to design in simplicity for teachers to start and stop sessions with a single button press. “It needed to work with a single button press because the teachers didn’t want to worry about lots of different stages,” says Francois Hobma, CEO of NFGD Audiovisual. “We did that with the combination of different equipment and the knowledge and experience of our engineers.”

NFGD accomplished this thanks to an intuitive Q-SYS control interface powered by Dante Domain Manager. This software-based control hub secures devices, manages users, organizes rooms and functions, and runs Dante AV seamlessly over routed networks. “You don’t want your teacher to have to be an AV technician,” says NFGD’s Rene Simmers. “Dante Domain Manager was able to help us in this case because it’s connecting all kinds of systems and devices behind the scenes.” AV data is shared across the three sites via BOLIN D20H Dante AV Ultra encoders and decoders — all over a standard 1 Gbps network using Netgear switches — a complex, interconnected system of devices, data, and infrastructure that the instructors never have to learn. With the Virtual Campus in place across all three schools and shared lessons regularly taking place, the project has been a complete success. “It was not possible to justify supporting a curriculum or paying a teacher when only five or six students signed up in a district,” said Wierstra. “Once we connected the schools and brought them together, we can now offer a smaller course, expand to 20 or more students, and have one teacher teaching all of them.” Its modular design allows for flexible configurations with adaptability to the needs of different educational institutions. The system’s scalability ensures that it can accommodate additional schools and classrooms without compromising performance or quality. This has attracted the attention of other schools in the area, with three more recently joining the network.

What’s more, NFGD designed this teacher-tested, classroom-proven solution to be repeatable, rather than just a one-off implementation. This makes it possible for other educational bodies to realise the benefits of broadening access to distant locations. With the interest the solution has already generated, there are certain to be more Virtual Campuses appearing across the Netherlands and farther afield.

Absen LED empowers Runimation

Studio’s virtual production

Offering services in film production, motion control systems and most recently virtual production, Runimation Studios has become a specialist in high-quality tabletop product shoots often involving fluid dynamics and reflective materials. The company found that traditional backdrop methods such as printed canvases and physical set builds were ineffective at achieving the desired results. Greenscreen was also not an option as this does not work on reflective or translucent surfaces. These traditional approaches were proving time-consuming, lacking in flexibility and often caused glare or low contrast from flat looking backgrounds.

Runimation Studios sought a solution that would overcome these challenges and be able to easily support high-speed filming whilst integrating seamlessly with robotic camera systems and deliver realistic backgrounds. “After extensive research and testing, we chose Absen’s Pixel Reality 1.9mm LED panels for our new virtual production backdrop”, comments Robert Eder, CEO of Runimation Studios. “The Absen LED stood out for its superior brightness and colour as well as its high refresh rates and exceptional scan ratio. Most importantly, Absen offer local repair support in Germany as part of its maintenance guarantee. This is a huge benefit for us as it provides us with the reassurance of a quick turnaround if any problems occur ensuring minimal downtime.”

The 40 LED panels (32 for background, 8 for a reflection surface or ceiling), driven by a Brompton SX40 and a Brompton S8 processor, were installed as a curved wall. This allowed for real-time, high-speed virtual production with minimal latency and exceptional visual fidelity. The ability of the motion control robot to transmit positional data ahead of its actual movement is vital to the workflow. Combined with Assimilate LiveFX as the central data node, this combination enables high-speed recording against the LED wall at 240fps and beyond, delivering premium precision and performance for demanding production environments.

Absen’s Pixel Reality (PR) Series stands out for its stunning display performance, excelling in its in-cam-

era visual effect offerings, enabling a smoother filming process. Supporting HDR, the LED panels allow videos with extreme dynamic range to display, alongside its 7680Hz refresh rate and 16bit grayscale, to ultimately help avoid visible scan-lines and colour banding. With heat dissipation effects, revolutionary carbon fibre and die-casting alloy composite structure, the panels are lightweight and durable, perfect for backdrops that require moving and adjusting, with easy front and rear maintenance.

The deployment of the Absen LED backdrop has now provided Runimation Studios with a compact yet powerful virtual production setup that delivers cinematic visuals with unmatched precision. The ability to simulate dynamic environments in-studio has opened new creative possibilities and streamlined production workflows. Directors and clients are also now able to view final compositions live on set, improving communication and creative decision-making, therefore enhancing Runimation Studio’s service offerings. “Absen’s PR 1.9 LED panels are able to transform virtual production capabilities, enabling studios like Runimation to achieve unparalleled visual precision and efficiency,” explains Debbie Zheng, Managing Director of AbsenLive. “We are immensely grateful for the opportunity to collaborate on this project and are excited to continue our partnership. We look forward to further expanding our reach

and excellence in virtual production studios worldwide.”

Absen’s LED panels have empowered Runimation Studios to push the boundaries of virtual production in a compact, high-performance environment. With plans to double their panel count and continue to expand in its virtual production offerings, Runimation Studios is setting a new standard for tabletop productions.

Leyard Europe transforms emergency medical services

Leyard Europe has successfully deployed a cutting-edge Leyard VDS Series LED wall at the Emergency Medical Services of the Pardubice Region (ZZS Pardubice) in the Czech Republic, transforming the dispatch centre into a high-performance command hub for coordinating emergency responses. The installation showcases ultra-fine 0.7mm pixel pitch technology while supporting ZZS Pardubice’s mission as a critical emergency response provider across the region. ZZS Pardubice’s services provide medical response through advanced dispatch technology, managing around 150 incidents daily while providing rapid response capabilities through 32 ambulance vehicles and 18 strategically located stations.

The dispatch centre serves as the main hub for emer-

gency medical services throughout the Pardubice region. The facility operates continuously, representing the front line of emergency medical care where split-second decisions and clear communication can mean the difference between life and death for patients across the region. The centrepiece of the installation, a collaboration with Prague-based technology solutions suppliers, AV Media, is an impressive 3m x 1.7m LED video wall constructed from 25 Leyard VDS Series panels. With its ultra-precise 0.7mm pixel pitch, the video wall delivers exceptional clarity capable of displaying multiple real-time data sources simultaneously, making it ideal for everything from ambulance tracking to helicopter coordination, and emergency response mapping. Each VDS panel is engineered for robust performance in demanding emergency service settings. The system offers superior reliability, making it particularly well-suited for ZZS Pardubice’s demanding dispatch environment where dispatchers work long hours under highstress conditions managing life-critical situations. The installation also incorporates Leyard’s highly flexible netPIX Video Wall Controller, which serves as the intelligent backbone of the entire system. The netPIX controller offers comprehensive input and output connections for the various data sources. “The successful integration of Leyard’s LED technologies provides a seamless overview of real-time operations, and enhances decision-making processes during emergencies,” says Ondřej Viselka, Consultant from AV Media. “Working with Leyard on this critical project has been exemplary. The technical support and collaborative approach throughout the installation process ensured we could deliver a solution that truly enhances ZZS Pardubice’s life-saving capabilities.”

The collaboration between Leyard Europe and AV Media also demonstrates the power of regional expertise, with AV Media’s technical proficiency and deep understanding of emergency services requirements ensuring seamless integration of the advanced LED technology into ZZS Pardubice’s critical dispatch operations. Jana Janošová, Territory Head Central Europe at Leyard Europe, emphasises the strategic significance of the partnership. “The deployment at ZZS Pardubice exemplifies our dedication to delivering cutting-edge solutions tailored to the needs of emergency services,” she notes. “We are proud to contribute to improved response capabilities and operational efficiency.”

“With the LED wall, we can instantly see the locations of our vehicles and helicopters at all times from every angle in the control room,” concludes ZZS Pardubice’s Head Operator, Renáta Ningerová. “The clarity and precision of the visuals are invaluable during high-priority cases, enabling us to respond rapidly and effectively.”

INSERT PIC with caption:

Leyard Europe has successfully deployed a cutting-edge Leyard VDS Series LED wall at the Emergency Medical Services of the Pardubice Region (ZZS Pardubice) in the Czech Republic, transforming the dispatch centre into a high-performance command hub for coordinating emergency responses

APPLICATION

Beeld & Geluid sound and vision museum puts sustainably on show

PPDS has supported the internationally acclaimed Beeld & Geluid museum – home to one of the largest media archives in the world – introducing its ‘zero power’ and advanced colour Philips Tableaux ePaper and welcoming a new era of sustainable displays. Located on Media Park in the Dutch city of Hilversum – a 30 minute drive from central Amsterdam – the spectacular Beeld & Geluid museum – also known as the Netherlands Institute for Sound and Vision – is one of the country’s most recognisable buildings, with a unique, colourful façade of 2,244 rotatable glass panels that are matched only by the institution’s awe inspiring internal architectural design.

Opened in 2006, all areas of the building – from 16 metres underground to 26 meters above – are dedicated to managing, safeguarding (archiving), and showcasing all types of media, from radio and television programs to video games, podcasts, and social media. In addition to revolving exhibitions, the venue also regularly hosts a variety of public, educational, and corporate events, and features two large theatre halls, each with large screens and coloured LEDs incorporated into the walls and ceilings. With a rich history of visual technology innovation dating back to the dawn of the commercial audiovisual era, Philips products – both old and new – feature prominently throughout.

Hylke Thiry, Team Manager Sales and Business Developer, Beeld & Geluid, commented: “Philips has been at the forefront of audiovisual innovation since the very beginning, and with its Dutch heritage, we are immensely proud to be home to many of its products.”Aligned in their commitments to sustainability, the Beeld & Geluid team wanted to cut down on the amount of paper wastage generated through the museum, which included personalised welcome messages, upcoming events, exhibit information, wayfinding, and more. Seeking a digital alternative and working closely with PPDS, Beeld & Geluid were able to seize the latest innovations and breakthroughs in ePaper display technology, a market being driven by PPDS and long term technology partner, E Ink.

Capable of displaying a static image 24/7 for days, weeks, months, or even years without using a single kilowatt of energy (or even needing to be plugged in) PPDS’ multi-award-winning 25” Philips Tableaux displays were the standout choice and a true game changer for the museum, adding an ever growing list of benefits and capabilities. Philips Tableaux displays from PPDS became the world’s first 60,000 colour ePaper signage solutions launched by a leading display manufacturer in 2023, delivering an array of exciting new visual opportunities – including substantial cost of ownership and energy savings.

Versatile and portable by design, the Philips Tableaux displays can be placed anywhere in the museum, including in permanent and temporary installations. Running on an Android SoC, the museum’s team can man-

age and update content either manually or entirely remotely. This allows effortless tailoring of screens to meet the unique needs of guests and visitors; content can easily be changed based on factors like location, time of day, current event, personalised greetings, or important safety information. Displays only require a connection to an electricity source in the museum when content is being updated, immediately reverting to zero power upon completion. One image change uses just 0.0025 kWh. For context, boiling a kettle uses the same amount of energy as 17 image changes, while 208 image changes would translate to eight hours of average laptop usage.

With no cables required, the setup in the museum is hassle free, and the team were quickly in command of content creation and management, able to simply swap out content when required. The installation has been deemed a complete and immediate success by the museum, with reductions in paper usage and wastage throughout the venue, while also cutting printing costs. The introduction of Philips Tableaux displays has also brought time management savings for staff, with content updates able to be handled centrally and instantly, as well as scheduling and revolving messaging to suit. Hylke Thiry added: “Philips Tableaux are at the fore-

front of a new and more sustainable display era. The Philips Tableaux has led the way again in digital display innovation, and we are very pleased to be able to welcome our visitors with these most sustainable ePaper displays. Perfect to highlight innovation in action and the ongoing story of AV here at Beeld & Geluid.”

Ron Cottaar, Head of Global Marketing at PPDS, concluded: “PPDS and the Philips brand have a long and successful association with the Beeld & Geluid, providing a rich history of innovation throughout the museum, both on display and in its archives. We were delighted to once again support the team in delivering a new generation of technology and visual capabilities, while, crucially, helping to bring new sustainable opportunities and financial savings, with Philips Tableaux.”

Carnival Cruise Line charts new course with PIXERA

Carnival Cruise Line has adopted AV Stumpfl’s PIXERA media server platform to power visual content in its onboard entertainment spaces. Four of Carnival’s 29-strong fleet of cruise ships are currently using PIXERA, with more scheduled to come online in the coming months as part of a broader strategy to upgrade and future-proof the cruise line’s video and show-control infrastructure. “We discovered PIXERA is the ideal solution to meet our needs,” explains Grant Kruger, entertainment technical fleet supervisor – lighting for Carnival Cruise Line. “It delivers high-performance video playback, ensuring a consistent and polished show experience that can be reliably repeated for many years.”

The four ships running PIXERA include Carnival’s newest vessels, the Carnival Encounter and Carnival Adventure, which made their maiden voyages from Brisbane and Sydney respectively in March 2025. On the upgraded ships, patrons can experience PIXERA powering LED content in a variety of on-board venues, from main theatres and internal lounges to smaller entertainment spaces such as comedy clubs. A long-time user of other media servers, Carnival was drawn to PIXERA in part for its hardware-agnostic approach. “One of the main reasons PIXERA sets itself aside compared to other media server brands is you can own your own hardware,” says Kruger. “PIXERA provides us with the flexibility to utilise our own custom-built servers, which is essential to our workflow. We currently manage the full technical operations in-house across 29 cruise ships – everything from fixture maintenance to media servers.”

Running on Carnival’s in-house machines, the PIXERA software also meets the cruise line’s requirements for advanced tracking and automation, continues Kruger, who highlights PIXERA’s seamless integration with the most important third-party protocols: “There aren’t a whole lot of media servers that do PSN [PosiStageNet] and Notch. We have automation systems that send PSN data to our media servers, so we need real-time tracking – which PIXERA does effortlessly.” Kruger also highlights PIXERA’s ease of deployment as being a key advantage of the platform – a particularly important factor for the time-critical period when Carnival’s ships are in drydock for maintenance. “We had the system up and running – show playback ready – within three days on both vessels [the Encounter and Adventure],” he recalls, with the Carnival team able to copy and adapt project folders from one ship to the next with minimal reprogramming, thanks to PIXERA’s flexible show management and timeline tools. “We were able to build everything on one ship and just walk over to the other one and deploy it instantly. That was really great.”

David Horner of VC Live Ltd, lighting director/programmer on the upgrade project, additionally high-

lights PIXERA’s intuitive user interface, free offline software for pre-programming and show review, compatibility with multiple encoded formats, and ability to create custom user interfaces – as well its ease of integration with lighting consoles and ability to create custom lighting desk personalities – as major advantages over less feature-rich media servers. The cruise ship environment brings its own unique challenges to media server deployment, from power and networking quirks to tight timelines for integration. But PIXERA’s adaptability – along with support from AV Stumpfl – helped smooth the process, according to Kruger. “We did have one or two hiccups on one of our ships,” he explains. “But by just submitting a support ticket and the PIXERA team sending over the support package, we were able to get the solution really quickly.” Overall, he adds, “the stability has been exceptional – we’ve had no issues with performance inconsistencies or bugs” since integration.

Carnival expects to sail more than 500,000 guests from its Australian home ports alone in 2025 – and as the cruise line expands so too will its adoption of PIXERA technology. “PIXERA,” Kruger concludes, “gives us the control, flexibility and support we need to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with LED content at sea.”

Bytek cosmic solution at Blackrock Castle observatory1

Originally con- structed in the 16th century as a fortress to protect Cork Harbour, Blackrock Castle has undergone numerous transformations. Destroyed by fire in the 19th century, it was rebuilt for the city before entering private hands and becoming variously, a private residence, offices, rowing club HQand a restaurant. Reacquired by Cork Corporation in 2001, the building was renovated and repurposed as an observatory and museum under a joint venture between the City Council, Cork Institute of Technology, and a private benefactor. Since opening in 2007 as a centre for scientific research, outreach and communication, the observatory, which houses an interactive astronomy centre open to

the public, has welcomed more than 1.4 million visitors. Earlier this year, the facility was closed to allow the upgrading of its technological provision, to better serve the wide range of educational and scientific activity on the site, as co-founder, CTO, and Centre Manager Alan Giltinan explains: “We wished to create a state-of-the-art theatre and conference venue which could seamlessly support the needs of a wide variety of visitor-experience, educational, professional, and hybrid scenarios. In a space equipped with three large screens and virtual reality (VR) capabilities, the plan was to use dynamic AV setups to facilitate an immersive cosmic experience for both in-person and remote event participants.”

The Blackrock Castle Observatory (BCO) team engaged experienced Dublin-based integrator Bytek Office Systems Ltd to supply and install a variety of AV equipment, and they in turn worked with distributor POLAR in respect of product supply, design support, and commissioning. To meet the extensive brief, a complete range of AV equipment was sourced from POLAR and installed at BCO to meet its wide remit of use-cases, including education programmes, corporate conferencing, public presentations, live-streaming, and visitor experiences.

All audio processing at BCO is by ClearOne using ClearOne CONVERGE Pro 2 128 VT and 48VT multi-channel microphone automixers (DSP with VoIP and telephone). Multiple ClearOne microphone options were supplied by with beam-steering microphones chosen to ensure a full 360-degree coverage within the space. These multiple microphone ceiling tile systems can automatically direct listening focus, isolating the presenter’s voice from background noise. ClearOneDIALOG 20 wireless headsets provide presenters with a high-quality personal microphone. and the freedom to move around the space.

The AV system is managed with an AMX NX1200 controller and a Varia Panel. Video sources are distributed over the network using AMX N2600 series encoders and decoders, then routed through a Precis switcher that supports up to four HDMI sources routed to two separate outputs. To enable broadcast and live-streaming of presentations and events, two Maxhub UC P20 12x zoom PTZ cameras were installed - one at the back of the room to capture presenter views, and one at the front for capturing audience reactions, whilst a Vissonic VISCRS-05-B professional AV Recorder with camera tracking allows multi-functional recording and live

broadcast.

Bytek installed a Cornered Audio sound system for the space (including an on-wall subwoofer) to deliver immersive audio experiences for presentations and entertainment events. With a unique 90-degree triangular design, Cornered Audio specialises in offering elegant and discreet high-quality sound systems for commercial and custom settings. The system was supplemented by WorkPRO commercial audio ceiling and surface mount loudspeakers, with all amplification by Lab Gruppen. To ensure maximum intelligibility throughout, Primacoustic panels were installed to reduce the reverberant effects of reflective surfaces within the space.

Alan Giltinan reflects on the success of this ambitious project: “Our aims have been met through the use of premium, state-of-the-art equipment. We enjoyed excellent engagement with Bytek from the outset. Their team showed a keen knowledge of the technology and clear understanding of the vision, and throughout the design phase and into the installation and commissioning, Bytek interacted with us constantly and consistently to bring the highest-level finish to the project. “It’s an excellent installation. Although the nature of our 16th Century castle posted some physical challenges, the final product has impressed everyone that has viewed and used it. As space and astronomy enters a new era of exploration, I envisage this installation to be a wonderful viewing portal for many into the expanse of the cosmos, continuing the advancement of knowledge at a thoroughly exciting location. As with any new installation, there is always a post-install period whereby some subtle changes maybe required to ensure best quality for customers and staff. Bytek have made themselves available at all times to assist in the continued improvement and optimisation of the overall system.”

Will Turney, Head of POLAR Integrated Solutions team sums up: “The project demonstrates our ability to support creative integrators like Bytek with comprehensive product solutions and technical expertise. Working within the constraints of this heritage setting, while delivering cutting-edge AV technology, required some careful co-ordination between all parties. “POLAR did not just supply all of the products but provided the design support and commissioning expertise that made seamless integration possible. The project’s success demonstrates how we are much more than just a distributor - we’re a strategic partner who understands the technical requirements and the vision behind ambitious installations. It’s installations like Blackrock Castle Observatory that clearly show how the right mix of fantastic products, expert integration, and collaborative partnership, can transform a heritage space such as this into a successful modern attraction.”

Renkus-Heinz’s compact beam-steering technology improves quality of life

Mumbai, India’s most populous city and financial capital, is currently undergoing significant redevelopment. In Bhendi Bazaar in particular, the expansive Saifee Burhani Upliftment Project is transforming the area into a modern and vibrant metropolis, improving quality of life for residents. A significant part of the ongoing project has been the renovation of the area’s cherished Saifee Masjid.

Originally built in the early 20th century, the Masjid soon became the community’s primary place of worship. After almost 100 years of service, the building underwent significant reconstruction before reopening in September 2023. The updated structure blends architectural heritage with innovation, along with a state-ofthe-art audio-visual system to reflect the needs of modern-day worshippers. Twelve Renkus-Heinz ICONYX Compact ICC12/3 loudspeakers were chosen as an integral part of this soundscape, helping to deliver focused audio to thousands of daily visitors.

With the Masjid built to accommodate up to 7,000 worshippers across three levels, ensuring clear speech during daily prayers and other community events is essential. Leading technology design consultants Play Technologies and award-winning AV systems integration company Innovative Systems & Solutions Pvt. Ltd. were confident that Renkus-Heinz’s flexible, compact ICC12/3 loudspeaker could deliver the performance and directivity needed in such an acoustically complex space. “With the proven legacy of Renkus-Heinz products in this type of project, there were no second thoughts on the selection of the brand as the preferred solution for the front of house and main atrium sound,” explains Mr. Sachin Jain, AV/IT Consultant at Play Technologies.

“The ICC12/3’s high vertical directivity and beamsteered line arrays can effortlessly penetrate buildings with challenging acoustics, which work perfectly with the Masjid’s high ceilings and stone walls,” adds Mr. Bhavin Sureliya AV System Integrator at Innovative Sys-

tems & Solutions Pvt. Ltd. “RHAON II beam steering and the movable acoustic centre ensures that sound reaches every visitor, whilst minimising potential reverberation in such a large space.”

Renkus-Heinz’s ICC12/3 loudspeakers were installed as part of a larger audio-visual solution. The loudspeakers’ ease of integration and control allow them to work flawlessly with many other devices such as other loudspeakers, microphones and amplifiers, plus built-in LED TVs and projectors, creating a connected and immersive space for visitors and enabling seamless transmission of audio and visual streams between the Masjid’s various buildings.

The ICC12/3’s renowned flexibility ensures seamless integration with the infill system that was already installed across the atrium’s three floors and other areas. Sureliya ran thorough tests on the ICC12/3’s various beam-level settings to find the optimum direction necessary to achieve uniform sound on each level. “The powerful Renkus-Heinz system acts as the primary source of front-of-house and fill sound in the main atrium,” explains Jain. “Tannoy loudspeakers in the corridors, higher floors and under-balcony areas complement the ICC12/3 system to offer clear, unbroken sound in every area.”

An important aspect of the Masjid’s large-scale reconstruction was ensuring that the building was restored back to its former glory, which involved reintroducing intricate decoration and elaborate embellishment. Meticulously carved Burmese teak beams, chandeliers

and gold leafing on the ceiling create a beautiful interior that echoes the original design. The ICC12/3 loudspeakers deliver exceptional sound quality without disturbing this unique architecture, thanks to their minimalist design and very narrow form factor. The included wall-mount bracket also promotes easy installation and is almost invisible behind the array. “The interior demanded a loudspeaker that was sleek and unobtrusive while also meeting specific size constraints,” says Jain. “It had to fit within the carvings on the wooden columns, where it was to be mounted. And of course, beyond the strict aesthetic considerations, it also had to deliver the performance requirements – which is where the ICC12/3 excelled.”

Renkus-Heinz’s ICC12/3 loudspeakers deliver the power and precision essential for an architecturally sensitive space where speech intelligibility is critical. Worshippers now experience crystal-clear audio at every level of the main atrium, all while immersed in the Masjid’s awe-inspiring atmosphere. Integrated into a wider AV system, the loudspeakers provide focused, high-intelligibility sound exactly where it’s needed. Their compact, unobtrusive design preserves the traditional character of this sacred space while meeting modern acoustic demands. “With a global reputation for transforming sound in houses of worship, Renkus-Heinz was an intelligent choice,” explains Huzefa Maimoon, Information Technology and HOD at Saifee Burhani Upliftment Trust (SBUT). “The precise beam-steering technology has transformed this sanctuary so every worshipper can

hear messages with perfect intelligibility, without overpowering the Masjid’s serenity.”

“We have found the support provided by Renkus-Heinz and its distributor Alphatec to be a great help at various stages of the project. The support has continued even after completion, which is quite impressive,” reflects Jain. “The integration team from Innovative Systems & Solutions Pvt Ltd have also been very supportive whenever they have been on site, providing superior client reassurance throughout the installation.”

Delta Live invests in the future of live sound

Delta Live has underlined its position at the forefront of live sound with significant investments in cutting edge audio systems that have been deployed across some of the UK’s most iconic live events and venues. The BBC Proms, Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and London’s Roundhouse are all beneficiaries of the company’s investment in 2025, which has seen a range of new equipment, audio systems and vital infrastructure deployed across the venues.

In May this year, Delta Live renewed its partnership with the Roundhouse in Camden to be its exclusive audio solutions supplier, and has since been overhauling the venue’s digital infrastructure, cabling, rack infrastructure, SD racks, bit cards, and PA and control systems. Key additions include two DiGiCo Quantum 326 digital mixing consoles, an L-Acoustics A-Series ground package, enhanced PA boxes, and a new microphone package that includes the Shure Axient wireless mics. Over at the Royal Albert Hall, Delta Live has been producing the sound for the BBC Proms for more than 20 years and has recently installed significant upgrades including DPA microphones, the L-ISA II Processor from L-Acoustics, as well as acquiring transform.engine by Fourier Audio and PRODIGY.MX from Direct Out Technologies; investments that have proved transformational. “Adopting transform.engine meant we could

APPLICATION

start this season with a library of industry standard plugins from fabfilter and Valhalla DSP for every rehearsal and show without having to bring in extra hardware,” said Stephen Hughes, head of music, Delta Live. “It has transformed how we approach mixing the BBC Proms, knowing that we have the best tools on the market at our fingertips.”

PRODIGY.MX is a market leader in multi-format audio matrixing and has added an invaluable flexibility for the team to route between live sound and broadcast desks. “The most important part of the BBC Proms technical infrastructure is the audio split between the live sound teams and the broadcast teams,” explained Hughes. And with more than 200 inputs being shared with the radio and TV sound teams, any issues with the audio split can jeopardise the live broadcast. “Whilst it seems like a small innocuous unit tucked away under the stage in the Royal Albert Hall, PRODIGY.MX has been one of the most essential bits of kit in keeping the show on the air.”

With Delta Live also supporting 24 venues at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival with upgraded QLab playback systems, 2025 has proven to be a statement of intent from the company. “These investments demonstrate our commitment to delivering the latest cutting-edge audio solutions for the UK’s live events market,” said Jonathan Bell, operations director, Delta Live. “But they also show that we’re serious about investing in the future of live sound. We’re proud to be pioneering the deployment of innovations and next-generation systems that will revolutionise live experiences for audiences, artists, venues and events around the world.”

The investments cap off a landmark year for the company in which it has also worked on some of the UK’s most iconic ceremonial events including the 80th anniversary VE Day celebrations in London and its third year running PA systems for Trooping the Colour.

INFiLED transforms artillery barracks into an AV hub

In the city of Murcia, 300 miles south-east of its European headquarters in Barcelona, INFiLED helped to transform the historic Artillery Barracks into a cutting-edge AV hub designed to nurture content creation, digital production and esports. The ambitious EU-backed government project was completed in just 60 days and further positions Murcia as destination for digital innovation.

The project – delivered by INFiLED in partnership with systems integrator Dominion and AV mounting solutions provider B-Tech – used INFiLED LED screens to help reshape the early 20th-century barracks into the HUB Audiovisual de Murcia, comprising a photography studio and gaming arena, along with recording studios, editing suites, simulators, a 3D printing studio and more. Murcia City Council sought a turnkey partner to lead the transformation of the artillery barracks. After winning the tender, Dominion selected INFiLED and B-Tech (for their LED and mounting expertise respectively) as

its partners on the new photography studio and esports arena.

Transforming a listed heritage site into a modern AV hub came with unique challenges. Strict preservation rules prohibited direct mounting to the building’s structure, requiring a completely non-invasive approach to installation. Space constraints and the need for durable, user-friendly solutions added further to the complexity of the project.

To meet the distinct needs of both spaces, INFiLED deployed products from its DB, DBmk2, and AR Series ranges, totalling approximately 700 LED cabinets. At the heart of the photography studio stands a sweeping 12m × 4m curved LED wall from the DBmk2 series, with a razor-sharp 1.9mm pixel pitch and an ultra-high-definition (6,144 × 2,048 pixels) resolution. A 60° curvature, meanwhile, allows for immersive wraparound visuals while respecting the strict heritage requirements of the barracks.

Overhead, 6m × 3m AR Series LED ceiling panels (3.9mm pixel pitch, 1536 × 768 pixels) bring dynamic lighting and visual effects into play. The AR Series is renowned for its infinite colour palette and high refresh rates, making it a favourite for stage and studio environments where flexibility is key. Completing the photo studio’s immersive setup are two 3m × 3m DBmk2 Series side panels (1.9mm pixel pitch, 1536 × 1536 pixels each) comprising 36 cabinets per side. The DBmk2’s high-contrast, ultra-black surface delivers deep vivid visuals from every angle, while its compact stacking system is ideal for the barracks’ limited spaces.

In addition to the fixed installation, INFiLED also pro-

vided a complete portable display kit consisting of 96 cabinets, a Novastar processor, a stacking system and custom flight cases for easy transport and storage. Its experts also conducted comprehensive training for the studio staff on how to set up the system whenever needed. Elsewhere, the esports space features a 288-cabinet, 18m × 4m DB Series display with a 2.6mm pixel pitch. With a high refresh rate, heightened contrast levels, sturdy die-cast aluminium frame and advanced thermal management, the DB Series is a workhorse for high-traffic and high-energy environments like gaming events, tournaments and community gatherings.

As to the issue of risk of physical damage from public interaction, every display in the project comes with INFiLED’s proprietary SolidSkin Technology. A patented, ultra-strong adhesive that forms a solid protection layer, it shields the LED surface from bumps, scratches and curious hands, offering exceptional durability. The newly completed HUB Audiovisual de Murcia is now open to the public, providing world-class AV facilities to local artists, content creators, students and gamers. The photography studio offers a professional environment for visual storytelling, while the gaming arena boosts the Murcia region’s esports scene, drawing new talent and audiences.

For INFiLED, the Murcia project exemplifies the versatility and customisability of not only its range of high-end LED screen, but the support it offers to partners, customers and end users. The Murcia AV hub shows it is able to adapt to even the trickiest project request, tailoring solutions to meet the unique needs of each.

Christie laser projection brings Gandhi’s legacy to life

Christie has announced that its laser projection solutions are at the heart of the new Bapu Tower Museum in Patna, Bihar, where they have been captivating visitors since its official opening in February. This milestone project, initiated by the Government of Bihar, celebrates Mahatma Gandhi’s enduring legacy and his pivotal role in India’s independence movement through powerful storytelling and immersive visuals.

Bapu Tower Museum blends architecture, art, and technology to deliver a fascinating experience for visitors. Conceived as both a symbolic and functional public space, Bapu Tower Museum embodies Gandhi’s enduring principles of peace, non-violence, and social justice. The museum complex comprises two main structures – the Rectangular Building and the Tower Building. The Rectangular Building houses three galleries and connects seamlessly via bridges to the Tower Building, where a grand ramp guides visitors through an experiential journey that traces Gandhi’s life. Together, the museum unites architecture, art, and technology to offer a meaningful space for reflection, education, and cultural engagement.

Design Habit served as the project’s museum design consultant, leading the creative direction from concept to completion. The firm oversaw every aspect of gallery design and production, ensuring a cohesive and immersive experience that faithfully expresses the museum’s vision and narrative. Close to 100 Christie laser projectors comprising the Inspire Series, GS Series, and Captiva Series models bring the museum’s storytelling to life through vivid, high-impact visuals.

Christie was selected for its proven reliability, high-brightness projection, vibrant colour reproduction, and energy-efficient laser illumination, as well as its flexible installation options suitable for both large immersive theatres and compact exhibit spaces. The systems were installed and commissioned by Vama Communications, which also managed ambient audio, AV equipment, and multimedia content integration to ensure seamless performance throughout the facility. “Our vision for the Bapu Tower Museum was to design a space that is not only architecturally significant but also immersive in storytelling,” said Amardeep Behl, Founder and Design Director of Design Habit. “Christie’s projection technology allowed us to realise that vision with rich visuals that enhance the narrative and create a deep, lasting impact on every visitor.”

Bharat Upadhyay, Director of Design Habit, added, “Beyond aesthetics, our goal was to craft an experience where technology seamlessly enhances storytelling. The use of projection technology enabled us to translate conceptual narratives into lively, emotionally engaging environments that authentically connect visitors with Gandhi’s teachings and philosophy.”

Captiva DWU500S projectors are used for projections on exhibit walls, while DWU630-GS projectors provide

Christie has announced that its laser projection solutions are at the heart of the new Bapu Tower Museum in Patna, Bihar, where they have been captivating visitors since its official opening in February

translucent screen projections in another gallery, supporting the display of full-sized sculptures. “It was an honour to be entrusted with such a meaningful project,” said Raj Parikh, Director, Vama Communications. “By integrating Christie’s advanced laser projection systems with our expertise in installation and AV content, we’ve helped create an environment that conveys the spirit and philosophy of Gandhi in a way that is both educational and emotionally resonant.”

Strategically deployed across three thematic galleries and five ramps, the projectors vividly illuminate key moments and milestones from Gandhi’s journey. Highlights include ultra short throw projections on walls using Captiva DWU500S projectors; translucent screens paired with hyper-realistic, full-sized silicon sculptures illuminated by GS Series DWU630-GS and DWU880-GS projectors; and larger exhibits, including the spectacular 360-degree immersive orientation theatre featuring a 60-seater turntable, powered by Inspire Series DWU960ST-iS projectors equipped with a 0.65–0.75:1 fixed short throw zoom lens.

The immersive 360-degree theatre has quickly become a visitor favourite, thanks to its lifelike projections and enveloping surround audio. Bapu Tower Museum

also marks the largest deployment of Christie laser projection systems in Bihar, reflecting the state’s growing investment in advanced ProAV technologies for cultural and tourism projects. Rishubh Nayar, sales director for India, Christie, commented: “We are delighted to see how our laser projectors have transformed Bapu Tower Museum into a unique experience for the people of Patna and beyond. This project underscores Christie’s commitment to helping cultural institutions connect with audiences through compelling, technology-driven storytelling. We are also grateful to Design Habit and Vama Communications for their expertise in realising this landmark cultural space, which now stands as a shining beacon of knowledge and heritage.”

Since its inauguration, the facility has welcomed a steady stream of enthusiastic visitors, with strong wordof-mouth recommendations reinforcing its reputation as one of India’s most inspiring cultural destinations. Public figures, celebrities, and journalists alike have praised the museum’s integration of technology, art, and narrative, hailing it as one of the finest tributes to Gandhian values.

Christie Griffyn Series projectors illuminate Festival of Light

The historic centre of Belo Horizonte was transformed into a vibrant stage of light and creativity during the 2025 edition of the Festival of Light (Festa da Luz), one of Brazil’s leading festivals of public art and technology. Among the highlights of the event was a large-scale projection on the façade of the Museum of Arts and Trades (Museu de Artes e Ofícios), which used three Christie Griffyn 4K50-RGB pure laser projectors by ON. Now in its fourth edition, the Festival of Light has become a fixture in the cultural calendar of Minas Gerais, a state in south-eastern Brazil. Over four days, the event presented 13 light installations and 12 projection mapping works across public spaces such as Station Square (Praça da Estação), Santa Tereza Viaduct (Viaduto Santa Tereza), Sapucaí Street (Rua Sapucaí), and the Sulacap/Sulamérica building, a historic landmark in the city centre. This year’s theme, “urban cultures”, celebrated hip-hop, graffiti, dance, and other artistic expressions rooted in Belo Horizonte’s identity, with contributions from local, national, and international artists. For Station Square, ON was commissioned by the festival to project onto the century-old Museum of Arts and Trades. Working in partnership with SSA Mapping, ON turned the 60-meter-wide (197-foot) façade into a living canvas that blended architecture, history, and contemporary street art. The content, designed by VJs selected for the festival, combined animations, graphic elements, and light art with the building’s architecture. Using advanced blending and warping techniques, ON’s team aligned the visuals precisely to the building’s irregular façade. To achieve the spectacle, three Christie Griffyn

4K50-RGB projectors were installed on towers facing the building at a throw distance of approximately 33 meters (108 feet).

“We chose the Christie Griffyn 4K50-RGB for their extreme brightness, pure RGB colour reproduction, and reliability, which are essential when working on large façades in an urban environment,” said Hugo Rodrigues, CEO of ON. “The performance was exceptional: the brightness delivered a strong visual impact even in the heart of the city, while the colour fidelity gave the content an intensity and richness that resonated with the audience.”

The projectors were managed through Resolume software running on a media server with four outputs. According to Rodrigues, the experience highlighted the importance of combining technical expertise with the right tools: “Thanks to our team’s know-how and the Griffyn’s capabilities, we were able to adapt the content seamlessly to the building’s irregularities, creating a projection that became one of the main visual highlights of the festival.”

For ON, participating in the festival with Christie technology underscored its mission to inspire and transform public spaces through audiovisual innovation. “We received extremely positive feedback from the organisers, artists, and the public,” added Rodrigues. “For us, it was rewarding to see technology play such a vital role in bringing art and heritage together, and in creating a shared cultural experience for thousands of people.”

The Griffyn 4K50-RGB is Christie’s brightest projector in its class, delivering 50,000 lumens and covering nearly the full Rec. 2020 colour gamut. Designed for demanding large-venue applications, the projector combines compact design, quiet operation, and integrated warping and blending tools, making it a versatile solution for high-impact projects around the world.

AV Stumpfl’s PIXERA at the FISU World University Games

The opening show of the FISU World University Games is a high-energy production designed to set the tone for the entire tournament. Capturing the attention of a global audience with a vibrant blend of live performance, dynamic lighting, and large-scale video, to welcome and excite athletes and guests. The ambitious production was broadcast live on German television and streamed internationally, requiring absolute reliability and seamless integration. At the heart of the visual system was AV Stumpfl’s PIXERA media server platform, chosen for its stability, flexibility, and ability to meet the complex demands of the opening ceremony show.

The ceremony was produced by Gerdon Design, who created the video package for the event. Media server specialists Bildmaschine GmbH were brought in to provide and operate the playback system, ensuring the delivery of all visual content was handled faultlessly. It marked the first collaboration between the two companies, providing Bildmaschine with the opportunity to demonstrate AV Stumpfl’s PIXERA capabilities in a high-pressure international broadcast environment. “From a technical and operational perspective, our top priority was ensuring reliable operation of the entire system. The rehearsal period was relatively short, which meant we had to work very efficiently. The show combined both live-rendered Notch content and pre-rendered video, with frequent adjustments right up to the last minute,” explained Pascal Genzel from Bildmaschine. “We needed to react quickly to these changes and implement them seamlessly without compromising stability, and PIXERA gave us the confidence and the tools we needed to deliver under pressure”.

The system design was centred around a container housing four PIXERA clients and a Barco E2 screen management system. Two director servers, including a backup, and four playout servers were deployed to guarantee redundancy and stability. The LED infrastructure was equally ambitious, with a main LED screen measuring 13,522 by 1,536 pixels and six 360-degree LED towers, each with a resolution of 2,016 by 1,344 pixels.

The operator workspace was located in the stadium stands opposite the stage, where Bildmaschine managed the PIXERA manager computers and a NAS system that also provided access to Gerdon Design for last-minute content adjustments. Using PIXERA’s Watchfolder function, new content delivered to the NAS was automatically imported and updated on the clients, ensuring smooth integration of changes.

The show was driven primarily by timecode supplied by the broadcast OB truck. PIXERA’s advanced timecode functionality, including the use of hot zones, was crucial in keeping the timelines clean and synchronised, allowing complex sequences to remain perfectly in time. Additionally, two live camera feeds were integrated directly into the PIXERA clients and interacted with Notch blocks to add dynamic, real-time elements

to the show. Other advanced features, such as Screen Groups and Layer-Reference Resources, simplify the process of mirroring or repositioning content across specific LED screens, a task that would otherwise be time-consuming and prone to errors.

PIXERA’s preview function proved essential. The ability to begin programming and validate visuals looks before all screens were fully installed saved considerable time during the limited rehearsal period. “Being able to see exactly what we were programming before all the LED walls were even built saved us a tremendous amount of time,” said Genzel. “It really gave us an edge in such a compressed schedule.”

PIXERA’s clear graphical user interface and intuitive 3D programming environment were praised as outstanding, particularly when working with the 360-degree towers. The option to view cue lists via the web interface was also highlighted as a major operational advantage. Despite the demanding technical environment, the opening ceremony was delivered without compromise. For Bildmaschine and Gerdon Design, the use of PIXERA ensured that even under tight schedules and constant change, the show remained synchronised, stable, and visually compelling. “PIXERA gave us the reliability and flexibility to focus on the creativity of the production rather than worrying about the system,” concluded Genzel. “For us, that’s what makes it such a powerful tool.”

Revitalized Africa Hall looks to the future with VITEC

Africa Hall is the home of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital city. The historic building has stood as a proud symbol of progress for the continent since its completion in 1961. Africa Hall was the birthplace of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1963, laying the groundwork for today’s African Union. To preserve the hall’s rich history for future generations, renovation works started in 2015. The renovation project was needed to maintain the hall’s historical and cultural integrity while upgrading it to meet contemporary standards. Included in the renovation were state-of-the-art technologies to support an increased number of delegations from the African Union, which had grown to more than 54 member states.

Extensive construction work began after funding was approved in 2015, and integrator Telmaco was awarded the contract for IT, networking, AV control, sound reinforcement and real-time translation systems in 2022. The Greece-based integrator was tasked with updating the main Plenary Hall and conference venue. As part of the works, an IPTV and digital signage solution was sought to distribute video content as well as display signage across endpoints throughout the building. “Telmaco was seeking to integrate a high quality, easy-to-use,

building-wide solution to allow its team to manage and distribute video content and signage throughout the site,” says Yaron Comarov, Managing Director, VITEC. “Having worked with Telmaco before, we were delighted to suggest a complete system to cater to the requirements of this ambitious project.”

It was important that the refurbishment maintained the character of the building and remained sympathetic to its original design, and great efforts were made to keep to retain its unique aspects. As part of works, the original 150m² stained-glass triptych mural (titled “The Total Liberation of Africa”) which encapsulates the past, present and future of Africa, was painstakingly disassembled, cleaned and restored.

Telmaco specified a range of VITEC hardware and software, including DVB gateways, encoders, Avedia Server, ArtioView and ArtioSign, and 15 IPTV signage endpoints. The system is used to acquire licensed feeds as well as local camera feeds, and power digital signage throughout the building, stretching as far as displays in the adjacent Visitor Entry Building. All video content is distributed via VITEC’s IPTV solution. The new IPTV system complemented a range of other works, including a complete technology overhaul of the Plenary Room, where a 13-meter-wide curved LED video wall was installed. Further supportive technologies were added to support an increased number of African Union delegations, including a conference & interpretation system, control automation, cameras and loudspeakers.

“Telmaco did a fantastic job with the audiovisual requirements of this exciting, prestigious project,” adds Yaron. “We established an excellent relationship with the Telmaco team, who were able to integrate all VITEC technology without the need for any troubleshooting. With the easy-to-use Avedia Platform, the team were able to create an engaging and informative digital signage experience, as well as manage all required live feed and deploy video across endpoints as necessary. The IPTV and digital signage system is fully scalable, with the option to easily add additional endpoints and upgrades without work to the infrastructure, should further expansion be required.

“We are extremely proud of the pivotal role our company played in the remodelling of iconic Africa Hall,” says Vassilis Kyriazis, Electrical & Electronic Engineer, MS COO – Audiovisual Division, Telmaco. “The integration of VITEC’s solution has transformed the delegate experience, providing them with access to vital information and engaging content throughout the building. We’ve helped create a modern, dynamic environment that reflects the importance of this historic venue, and we are confident it will serve well, future generations of African leaders.”

TopVision ensures authenticity in football broadcasting

Before a German league football match is broadcast, sound engineer Ecki Kehrer and sound technician Daniel Kersten from production company TopVision go into action. Well established in sports and football productions for more than 30 years, TopVision has been an independently operating subsidiary of TVN Live Production since 2024, providing the commissioning producer Sportcast – and therefore German football fans – with thrilling outside broadcasts direct from the stadiums. Pitch microphones and wireless systems for interviews bring all the excitement of a live soccer match into TV and streaming audience’s living rooms. So, what does a typical football Saturday look like for Kehrer and Kersten and what do they think of Sennheiser’s new MKH 8018 stereo shotgun microphone?

A few days before a match, TopVision is handed the production plan drawn up by Sportcast. “This gives a detailed specification of how the production is to be carried out: “explains Ecki Kehrer. “For, example, how many cameras there are, how many reporters will be coming, how many broadcasters we will be serving and how many additional commentators we need to provide for. Do they need a monitor, do they need a commentary box place that is ‘fully equipped’ or only ‘partially equipped’? And our team then gets to work with the preparations.”

On the day of the broadcast itself and six-and-a-half hours before kick-off, Kehrer and Kersten start work in the production truck, which has already been parked in the stadium’s broadcast compound. “It might sound incredible, but our OB van is a vehicle that is much bigger inside than its external dimensions,” Kehrer explains. “The side expansions make the van twice as big as the space it takes up when it’s on the road. The big OB van provides us with four rooms, and video and audio control. Parked alongside is the tender van, our support vehicle that contains all our equipment: cameras, microphones, monitors, everything we need. All of this equipment is loaded onto a trolley and taken to the side of the pitch by one of our colleagues, who sets up all the microphones – and hopefully manages to get some help with laying the cables. After all, together with the camera cables, we’re talking about a couple of kilometres!”

Commissioning producer Sportcast specifies the equipment to be used in the stadium to ensure that all league games are broadcast to a consistently high standard. “For the pitch, that means 17 microphones, three behind each goal, one in the centre and two directed towards the 5-metre corners,” explains Daniel Kersten. “Microphones are set up at all four corners, and at the main camera position (Camera 1), there are three microphones at the two 20-metre positions and at the half-way line, while on the opposite side there are four microphones at the 22-metre positions and at the 40-metre position. In addition, we also have ambience microphones to pick up the crowd noise.”

While MKH 8060 and MKH 8070 shotgun microphones were used as pitch microphones in the past, the new specifications now mean that MKH 8040 with a cardioid pick-up pattern are positioned around the edges of the pitch. As Kehrer points out: “You sometimes want to hear the ‘close balls’, in other words the sound of the players kicking the ball, but you also don’t want to be too focused, because the microphones are static and no one is moving them around, as would be the case with shotgun mics.” Kersten adds: “In our set-up, it’s the sheer number of microphones that makes all the difference. When you’ve got 17 microphones spread around the pitch, directionality is not that important. We do have directionality, of course, but because of the large number of microphones, it works really well with the short ones.”

All microphone cables are connected to a rack at the edge of the pitch. A STAGETEC router linked to the OB van enables TopVision to provide 32 transmission channels in both directions. The microphones themselves can sometimes become unintended targets. “This occurs more often than you might think, especially when both teams are warming up on the pitch,” Kersten explains. “We start transmitting the broadcast signal an hour before the match kicks off, so all the microphones are already in place. And maybe three or four times in a season, one of the microphones gets kicked away. You’re either lucky and you can just put it back where it was. Or you’re unlucky and something gets broken.” Kehrer adds: “The microphones near the goal are particularly at risk. We’ve had players who liked to vent

their frustration after a foul or after missing a goal by giving the microphone a good kicking. Unfortunately, things like that can happen occasionally.” In addition to the pitch microphones, Kehrer and Kersten also set up the necessary wireless equipment. TopVision offers a range of different packages depending on what the broadcast customer wants to provide to its TV or streaming audience, including the popular teams of presenters and pundits, field reporters who carry out the interviews and, of course, guests, such as players, coaches, officials or other VIPs.

Kersten: “Wireless microphones and in-ear monitoring are mainly used for the presenters in the stadium. So, you first take a look at the venue and see where this might fit and what the customer specified. Sometimes, the packages are small and not too much work is involved. But occasionally, the packages are much bigger, and the amount of effort required, together with our colleagues in the OB van, is quite considerable. If a customer wants to walk around the pitch with a camera, we also have to make sure that the sound is transmitted properly and without dropouts. And that requires quite a bit of planning: Where do we put the rack and the antennas? Where can we place additional antennas so that the OB van can switch from one antenna to the next?”

When asked whether all of the interviews on the pitch are scheduled in advance or whether there is still room for the occasional surprise where equipment needs to be made available on the spot, Kehrer explains: “Most of it is planned before the match and there are various

fixed positions on the sidelines and in the mixed zone where interviews and presenting can take place. During big matches, there can be as many as 30 broadcast companies in the compound, and everyone wants to do interviews! So everyone has their designated area, everything is fixed in advance, and everyone has purchased their package beforehand.”

“But there can be deviations from this, of course, especially during the weekly matches, when the producer says: “Today we’ll have to do the interview at the press conference because one player doesn’t want to come out and talk to us.” You really have to be prepared for things like that, because you can’t just run cables into the press centre or the changing room. That’s why we recently bought Sennheiser equipment again, an on-camera EK 6042 two-channel receiver, which picks up the audio from both the reporter and the interview partner. Funnily enough, you can go wherever you want with a camera, but as soon as you have to provide sound somewhere, it’s always weird because you can’t see it... A lot of importance is now placed on sound, even though everything is still very image oriented.”

TopVision has around 20 cameras in use during a game, a quarter of which are handheld cameras equipped with wired shotgun microphones. While handheld cameras for interviews use mono microphones, MS stereo microphones are fitted to the handheld cameras that are used to show the players coming onto the field, arriving by bus, or waiting for the match in the locker room. “For example, we have an FX6 mounted on a gimbal, which means that you try to keep the weight down and use a microphone that’s as compact as possible,” Kersten explains. “Every gram of weight that you can save and every length that you can make shorter is, of course, always an advantage.”

Kersten adds: “In the stadium, we now have the MKH 8018 in regular use on our FX6 and the gimbal, and we’re absolutely delighted by both the handling and the sound. Especially on the small gimbal, a few grams of weight make a huge difference – and combined with the sound quality, it’s perfect as a camera microphone for live broadcasting.” Ecki Kehrer goes into more detail: “The microphone features very good left-right localisation and a very good frequency response, and therefore provides a very clean and open representation of what is going on in front of the camera. We found its directivity to be better than that of the predecessor model, the 418-S. We were able to “listen in” even more closely when the teams were choosing ends before the match began. We were also impressed by the bass response, which was almost too deep compared to an MKH 8060, but we prefer this because you can always remove low frequencies by using a high-pass filter at the console, but you can’t add them if they’re not there. During the tests, we also considered using the microphone as a close-ball mike in three directions: 45°L, M, 45°R, which would have been possible without any problems with a similar sound character to that of an 8060. All in all, the 8018 is a very convincing product that we really enjoy using.”

APPLICATION

Groupe Novelty at the heart of Notre-Dame resurrection

It can now be revealed that the French AV leader was behind the divine AV installation and event followed by millions for the rebirth of Notre-Dame Cathedral. On15thApril2019, an icon of history and faith was engulfed in flames, destroying its spire and roof and causing significant damage to the cathedral’s altar, pipe organs, 13th-century rose windows and many religious relics. Five years later, on7thDecember 2024, after what is described as one of the most ambitious and extensive house of worship reconstruction projects in modern history, the Notre-Dame de Paris officially reopened. Appointed as the lead integrator for this momentous job, Novelty Paris handled the vast majority of the integration work, seeking critical support from its sister company De Préférence for fine-tuning and acoustic optimisation, and the wider Groupe Novelty companies to undertake the challenge of equipping the religious monument with a sophisticated and fully integrated audiovisual infrastructure.

The project incorporated sound system installation, live audio recording and video delivery, as well as remote video production capabilities for KTO, the French language Catholic television channel to broadcast the reopening as well as the subsequent religious services. One of the project leads for this installation was David Créteur from Novelty Paris. To ensure a future proof integration work, Novelty Paris requested from the onset an increased capacity for optic fibre to be used for the cabling infrastructure. A full-fibre infrastructure was deployed throughout the cathedral, enabling seamless management for technicians and external service providers, alongside a dual spine-leaf network topology that supports both audio and visual workflows and utilises industry-standard protocols, including Milan-AVB (audiovideobridging), Dante and NDI (network device interface) for synchronised, low-latency transmission.

In such a historic venue, custom and non-invasive mounting solutions were paramount considerations to preserve the remains of the original, iconic house of worship. Positioning of all the AV equipment was arguably the most challenging part of this highly ambitious integration, due to the restrictions imposed by the architecture. Speaker placement was optimised using precise altimetry, angling and rotation, with discrete locksmithing to support 128colour-matchingL-Acoustics speakers including KIVA in the main area and above the choir stalls, alongside a combination of 2-way passive 5” SYVA and 3.5” SOKA column speakers, coupled with 2-way passive 5XT and X4i boxes. Most of the sound distribution is amplified by six19” racks situated in the grandstands, with an additional rack located in a chapel on the ground floor dedicated to the technical room. The LA-2Xiand LA7-16i models were chosen for their channel density and native Milan-AVB compatibility. DiGiCo mic preamps have also been installed in the grandstand racks to relay audio ambiences and organs,

as well as inside the two credenzas at the choir for all stage mics (20Schoeps CCM4s and a Sennheiser MEB114 SW at the altar), for the spoken voices and the Maîtrise de Notre Dame, as well as for additional live equipment. With this installation, Novelty Paris not only addressed the acoustic requirements of a world-renowned religious venue but also cemented the groundwork for a next generation digitally connected place of worship. “This integration was as much about discretion and precision as it was about performance,” confirms Créteur. “Working within a site as iconic and architecturally complex as Notre-Dame required custom engineering and solutions that respected its heritage while delivering high-quality, advanced technology.” The resurrection of the Notre-Dame made way for the world’s first installation of Sennheiser’s Spectera, the first wideband bidirectional digital wireless system for live audio production. The Novelty integration team appreciated the qualitative and speed of the new Spectera, offering simplified management of microphones, IEM/IFB signals and control data on a single RF channel, allowing to optimise space and reduce installation time. The broadcasting integration consists in eight Panasonic AW-UE150 cameras, coupled with three extra cameras for content feedback and onsite streaming.

A Panasonic 4K AV-UHS500 live switcher with a Blackmagic Design ATEM 4 M/E Constellation 4K switcher for remote live production were chosen to enhance and feed the live stream to KTO’s HQ situated in the outskirts of Paris. Ten43”NEC screens are standing behind pillars thought out the nave to allow guests to follow the ceremony. Upon completion of the renovations to Notre-Dame, Groupe Novelty were also tasked with delivering the entire AV equipment for the grand reopening, attended by the world’s dignitaries and broadcast worldwide.

Having supplied equipment for several previous video mapping events at the cathedral over the years, along with a series of permanent audio installations over four decades, Groupe Novelty handled the full audiovisual setup through its subsidiaries Alabama Média, DePréférence, Dushow TV, Magnum, Magnum Power, Novelty and On Stage. The setup included projection mapping on the cathedral’s façade, power distribution, lighting, broadcast and staging for this project of monumental importance. For this historic moment, Groupe Novelty also deployed a vast 1,400m²marquee in the square facing the Cathedral. After three weeks of installation for the re-inauguration, two days of operation and 24 articulated lorries of AV equipment, the reopening

ceremony began with the ringing of the cathedral’s bells for the first time since 2019. Laurent Ulrich, archbishop of Paris, then struck one of the closed doors three times with his crosier, which had been made from a roof beam that had survived the fire, with the façade lighting up in gold each time he did so. The cathedral choir responded by singing and when the doors were opened upon the third strike, French president Emmanuel Macron entered the nave of the cathedral, where guests were already sat. “We were approached by Publicis Live, who were overseeing the whole project, to go through the options at our disposal and their feasibility,” recalls Gérald Bouché, operational sales director at Novelty and Groupe Novelty’s project lead for this reopening project. “The first request was to highlight the cathedral; we studied the plans and started elaborating on various ideas. The Paris 2024Olympics were also in the picture, so by the time we could get 100% focused on the project, we were already in October. “We knew that event of this scale would require an extremely varied number of expertise, and that collaboration would be paramount to the effective management and overall success of this project. With hundreds of millions of eyes globally turning to Paris for the re-inauguration, we knew Groupe Novelty was perfectly equipped to deliver a show that would make world history.” One particularly poignant section included projected words of thank you in various languages to pay tribute to the 160 firefighters who helped save Notre-Dame from the engulfing fire, as well as the many artisans from France and abroad who helped restore the13th-centuryRoman edifice, a refuge for Victor Hugo’s Quasimodo in his The Hunchback of Notre-Dame.

Handled by sister company Dushow TV, the lighting played a major role in enhancing the grandeur of this historic ceremony. Over 200 lighting fixtures from Martin, Elation and Robe, with eight Viper 2.6 fog machines and eight AF-1 effects fans, were installed inside the marquee and another 200 Astera, Martin, Robe and ARRI units were positioned inside the cathedral. Lighting in each area was controlled using an MA Lighting grand MA3.For the many spectators outside the cathedral, the team set up trailer-mounted screens and sound along the River Seine. Power distribution was also an important challenge, and in order to minimise cabling on site, Magnum and Magnum Power decided to host seven power generators on a barge on the river Seine which runs next to the cathedral, providing uninterrupted electricity for all equipment during the reopening show. Jacques de La Guillonnière, founding president of Groupe Novelty, concluded: “We are especially proud to have had the opportunity to contribute to the rebirth of Notre-Dame de Paris. This project, with its immense scope, ranks among the most prestigious we have had the privilege to deliver. It stands as a remarkable demonstration of the complementarity between our companies and the synergy within our group, drawing on individual areas of expertise to successfully carry out a project of such complexity.”

Avocor enhances collaboration and efficiency at Pro Warehouse’s Amsterdam office

Pro Warehouse, a leading Apple-focused technology provider in the Netherlands, recently carried out a strategic office relocation to Amsterdam. The move from multiple office units to a single-floor space aimed to provide additional workspace as well improve communication and collaboration within the Pro Warehouse team. The relocation also provided the opportunity for the creation of new meeting spaces featuring next-generation technology, including high-performance Avocor displays, to further enhance efficiency and support the company’s ongoing growth and development.

As part of this relocation, Pro Warehouse partnered with Avesqo, an AV reseller based in the Netherlands with a strong track record in the sector. With the need to increase collaboration and efficiency as key drivers in this project, the Avocor K Series was chosen as the display to bring this project to life. “Our move to a single, unified office space in Amsterdam was a critical step in fostering a more collaborative and cohesive culture,” comments Jurgen Smit, Senior Category Manager at Pro Warehouse. “New cutting-edge technology was central to this vision, and the new Avocor displays have been instrumental in providing our teams with the tools they need to collaborate and communicate more effectively both in-person or remotely.”

The displays were installed to support a variety of room sizes and use case scenarios, with the larger 65” models featured in the main meeting space with 55” units placed in the smaller huddle-type spaces for quick, more focused collaboration. In addition to the K Series, the new meeting rooms are also equipped with Logitech bars that include cameras, microphones, and audio capabilities. To enhance the state-of-the-art look of the installation, the Avocor displays are mounted on architectural poles for clean cable management and a streamlined appearance.

Pro Warehouse also operates two sub-offices in Zwolle and Eindhoven. Plans are underway to expand meeting room capabilities in these locations, beginning with new reservation systems and eventually incorporating further Avocor displays. In addition, a larger format display is also planned for the reception space in the Amsterdam office to support company-wide meetings and presentations. The integration of the Avocor K Series has significantly enhanced Pro Warehouse’s operational efficiency. The displays enable seamless device connection and streamline meeting room management, representing a forward-thinking approach to workplace collaboration as the company continues to expand across the Netherlands.

ST Engineering Antycip upgrades UCL’s VR Lab

Originally commissioned in 2000 as the first of its kind in the UK, the VR Lab has evolved through several technology generations. From its origins with CRT projectors and SGI image generators through lamp-based systems and multiple tracking solutions, it has been central to UCL’s standing as one of the country’s largest VR research groups. Today, the Lab remains a cornerstone for work across human–computer interaction, biomechanics, robotics, and virtual and augmented reality. The latest upgrade replaces projectors first installed in 2012 with four Barco UDM 4K laser projectors. The system delivers brighter contrast, richer colour and a 4K pixel space per channel while removing the need for consumables and reducing maintenance demands. New RF-synchronised stereoscopic eyewear and fibre-optic cabling further enhance usability and reliability, ensuring the immersive room is equipped for years of future research.

“Our previous projection system had served us well for over a decade, but spare parts were becoming impossible to find, and performance had started to lag behind what is needed for cutting-edge research,” says Dr David Swapp, senior research fellow and lecturer in immersive technologies at UCL. “With the new setup, we get superior contrast, resolution and system reliability –all essential to pushing the boundaries of immersive VR.

Primarily, we are interested in what makes virtual reality work; what it is that makes people go into the immersive room and not believe it is real but still act and behave as if it is real. That is the question we continue to explore, and this upgrade helps us do it better.”

The room has already hosted studies ranging from foveated rendering and avatar interaction to AI-driven behaviour and multi-sensory simulation. While UCL’s research group makes extensive use of head-mounted displays for teaching and experimentation, projection-based systems remain the preferred resource for many use cases, offering a level of immersion and interactivity not possible with wearable devices. “We are proud to have supported UCL with this upgrade,” says John Mould, commercial development manager at Antycip. “It ensures one of the UK’s most iconic immersive facilities continues to evolve. Seeing the leap in image quality compared to its CRT origins really underlines how far this technology has come, and how much further it can go.”

Christie Griffyn 4K50-RGB projectors at Doupotang Waterfall

Christie Griffyn 4K50-RGB pure laser projectors are delivering a dazzling fusion of art, technology, and natural beauty in “Revisiting Journey to the West,” a new immersive night time attraction at the famed Doupotang Waterfall in Guizhou province. The attraction is inspired by the beloved 1986 “Journey to the West” television series.

Transforming one of the original filming locations of the classic TV series into a luminous stage, “Revisiting Journey to the West” invites audiences to rediscover familiar tales through a spectacular interplay of light and water. Powered by seven Christie Griffyn 4K50-RGB projectors installed and commissioned by Shenzhen Guangming Huachuang Technology Co., Ltd., the largescale outdoor production combines live performance, projection mapping, mechanical staging, and audience interactivity. Using light as its brush and the waterfall as its canvas, it reimagines the legendary 7th-century pilgrimage of the Buddhist monk Xuanzang from China to India in search of sacred scriptures, immersing audiences in his epic westward journey from a striking first-person perspective.

“The Christie Griffyn 4K50-RGB projectors delivered exceptional brightness and colour fidelity, perfectly realising the director’s vision across every detail from the cascading waterfall to the cliff-face imagery,” said Di Zhang, spokesperson for Guangming Huachuang. “This landmark project showcases how technology can elevate artistic storytelling while pushing new boundaries in cultural integration, creative design, and technical excellence within China’s cultural tourism sector.”

Gene Wang, director of ProAV Sales for China, Christie, added, “We’re thrilled to see the Griffyn 4K50-RGB projectors bring this visually and culturally significant production to life. It highlights Christie’s technological leadership in cultural tourism and outdoor immersive entertainment and reflects our ongoing commitment to empowering creativity through innovation.”

The installation features three Griffyn 4K50-RGB projectors blending imagery spanning 56 metres (183 feet) in width and 13 metres (42 feet) in height across the waterfall; another three illuminating a 42-metre-wide (137-foot-wide), 10-metre-high (32-foot-high) water curtain; and one bringing vivid detail to a 20-metre-wide (65-foot-wide), 12.5-metre-high (41-foot-high) cliff-face Buddha image. Christie’s advanced warping and multi-projector blending tools ensured sharp, vibrant visuals even on moving water and rugged rock surfaces. Project execution followed a meticulously coordinated process ranging from precision surveying and 3D simulation to optimise brightness, geometry, and colour accuracy, to agile deployment using modular installations across multiple sites. Custom IP65-rated enclosures ensured reliable outdoor performance, while Guangming Huachuang’s team collaborated with the creative producers to fine-tune projection effects and provide comprehensive training for long-term operational stability.

The result is a vivid demonstration of how advanced projection technology can transform natural landscapes into immersive cultural experiences. Since its debut, “Revisiting Journey to the West” has earned widespread acclaim, winning the China Lighting Award (Second Prize) and the Aladdin Magic Lamp Award for Outstanding Lighting Project. It is also recognised as a national pilot for immersive tourism and among Ctrip’s Top 100 Asian Night Tourism Attractions for 2025.

Delivering an astounding 50,000 lumens of brightness, native 4K resolution, and over 98% of the Rec. 2020 colour gamut, the Christie Griffyn 4K50-RGB is the lightest and brightest projector in its class. Its long-lasting RGB pure laser illumination provides exceptional colour accuracy, high contrast, and quiet operation - ideal for delivering extraordinary visual experiences in large-scale venues and outdoor environments.

WSDG enhances sound and safety at South America’s largest stadium

Following a sweeping renovation between 2020 and 2023, Estadio Mâs Monumental, the legendary home of Club Atlético River Plate and the Argentinian national football team, has been transformed into one of the most advanced sports and entertainment venues in the world. As the largest stadium in South America, with a capacity exceeding 86,000, Mâs Monumental is now setting new global standards in both infrastructure and fan experience. A key component of this transformation was a complete overhaul of the stadium’s sound system, supported by global acoustic design consulting and media systems engineering specialists WSDG.

Implemented in close collaboration with Bosch and Electro-Voice, the new electroacoustic system was engineered to deliver exceptional speech intelligibility, uniform coverage, and an immersive audio environment for both sporting events and large-scale concerts. WSDG conducted a detailed peer review of the proposed specifications, contributed critical design optimisations, and supervised the final system calibration onsite to ensure optimal performance. “Designing for stadiums is always about achieving the right balance between clarity and emotional energy,” says Sergio Molho, WSDG Partner and Director of Business Development. “At Mâs Monumental, we were able to craft a sound experience that supports every word, cheer, and musical moment with power and precision.”

The upgrade was long overdue. For years, River Plate relied on temporary rented sound systems mounted at ground level, resulting in uneven coverage and poor intelligibility. The original installed system, dating back to the 1978 FIFA World Cup, had become technologically outdated and functionally inadequate. “A new sound system was a non-negotiable part of the renovation,” explains Rodrigo Alvarez, Head Architect and Construction Manager at Club Atlético River Plate. “It was essential not only for enhancing fan experience, but most importantly, for ensuring safety. We looked for world-class

partners with proven stadium experience – and that’s why we brought in WSDG.”

The final solution combined distributed point-source loudspeakers and mezzanine-mounted arrays, all managed through advanced digital signal processing to maintain coherence across the expansive stadium. WSDG also applied its Technical Interior Design (TID) expertise to adjacent areas, enhancing sound quality and speech clarity throughout the venue.

Integrating a state-of-the-art system into a stadium built in the 1930s posed unique structural and logistical challenges. “We had to verify and reinforce aged concrete structures, modernise electrical systems, and schedule all installations around active match days and events,” notes Alvarez. “Despite those constraints, the result is a sound system that blends into the architecture and elevates the entire stadium experience.”

And that experience is more important than ever. Club Atlético River Plate closed 2024 with an announcement that it had once again claimed the title of the most attended football club in the world, with an average of 84,567 fans per match and over 2.4 million attendees throughout the season. Estadio Mâs Monumental’s upgrades, including its state-of-the-art sound system, have played a major role in attracting these record-breaking crowds and reinforcing the stadium’s reputation as one of the top global venues for both sports and live entertainment. “The reaction from both fans and performers has been overwhelmingly positive,” Alvarez adds. “The jump in quality was immediately noticeable, and it’s a major factor in our stadium being selected as a host venue for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.”

“This is where design meets passion,” says Molho. “Whether it’s a championship goal or a sold-out concert, our mission is to make sure every sound reaches every fan - clearly, powerfully, and without compromise. When we get it right, the system disappears, and all that remains is the experience.”

Daniel Sennheiser to Take Over as Chairman of the Sennheiser Group

After more than a decade of shared responsibility as Co-CEOs, Daniel and Dr. Andreas Sennheiser will take on different roles within the Sennheiser Group. Effective January 1, 2026, Daniel Sennheiser will become Chairman of the Board of Directors, while his brother Andreas Sennheiser will continue as CEO, overseeing the operational business of the family-owned company. In his new role, Daniel Sennheiser will focus on the strategic direction of the Sennheiser Group. “By joining the Board of Directors, I will concentrate more on the long-term development of the company and on continuously strengthening key customer relationships. I will continue to work closely with my brother Andreas in his role as CEO and with the existing Executive Management Board,” says Co-CEO Daniel Sennheiser.

Andreas Sennheiser will continue to lead the company as CEO and, together with the Executive Management Board, manage the operational business. “This new structure enables us to combine day-to-day business with strategic foresight, which is crucial for the future success of the Sennheiser Group,” adds Co-CEO Andreas Sennheiser. Daniel and Andreas Sennheiser will continue to pursue their shared goal of driving sustainable and independent growth for the Sennheiser Group and building the future of audio. “Our trusted relationship and complementary perspectives have enabled us to lead the company successfully as Co-CEOs for more than 10 years. This will also remain the basis for our future collaboration.” “I look forward to this next chapter of our family business, which has successfully evolved over three generations. Progress means shaping change positively – both for me in my new role and for Sennheiser as a company,” explains Daniel Sennheiser.

Daniel Sennheiser succeeds Andreas Dornbracht, who has served as Chairman of the Board for the past four years. Dornbracht will remain on the Board as a member and continue his work alongside the other Board members. “We sincerely thank Andreas Dornbracht for his dedicated and forward-looking leadership over the past years,” says Daniel Sennheiser. “His stra-

Effective January 1, 2026, Daniel Sennheiser will become Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Sennheiser Group

tegic perspective and valuable input have been a great asset to all of us. I am delighted that he will remain on the Board and that we can continue to benefit from his experience and expertise.” In addition to Andreas Dornbracht, the Board of Directors includes Iris Epple-Righi, Stephan Plenz, and Prof. Dr. Jörg Sennheiser (Honorary Member).

Solotech appoints Stéphane Lefebvre as President and CEO

Solotech has announced the appointment of Stéphane Lefebvre as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). After over 8 years of guiding the company to its distinctive position, Martin Tremblay, former President and Chief Executive Officer, is handing over the reins to his successor, who has been serving on Solotech’s Board of Directors. This leadership transition embodies both continuity and renewal. With it, Solotech is well-positioned to achieve its strategic goals of global expansion, sustainable growth, and to pursue its ambitions of being the catalyst in the evolution of audiovisual technology solutions and the preferred partner in the touring, events, and systems integration space.

Based in Montreal, Stéphane brings a wealth of international leadership experience combined with a strong connection to an enhanced knowledge of the entertainment and technology industry. In his previous role as CEO of Cirque du Soleil, he successfully led Cirque’s post-pandemic business relaunch and guided one of the world’s most iconic creative brands through transformation and global expansion. Prior to that, he developed extensive acumen in technology and systems integration management, as well as operational excellence from his twenty years in various executive management roles at CAE, a world leader in simulation, training and critical aerospace operations.

Earlier in his career, he held financial advisory roles at PwC. Stéphane also currently serves on the Boards of

announced the

Transat A.T. and C2 Montreal. “Stéphane’s proven leadership and people-first approach make him the right leader for Solotech’s next phase of growth. He understands the importance of culture, innovation, and operational excellence — qualities at the heart of our success. With Stéphane at the helm, the Board is confident Solotech is positioned to strengthen its leadership and pursue its ambitions with clarity and vision. We also extend our gratitude to Martin Tremblay for his leadership and dedication over the past eight years as CEO,” said Pierre Boivin, Chairman of the Board.

“I’m very thrilled to join Solotech, a world-class leader in audiovisual and offering technical solutions to support clients across the globe. Solotech creates unforgettable experiences and inspiring spaces using our solution-driven approach to bring clients’ vision to life, from design to delivery, powered by talented professionals around the world. I look forward to collaborating with the strong leadership team to shape Solotech’s next chapter, advancing innovation and excellence, for our worldwide clients in the entertainment sector and venues in multiple markets, as well as for our employees and partners”, mentions Stéphane. Empowered by its past, grounded in the present, Solotech has never been better positioned to take on new challenges towards a promising future.

PPDS appoints AV sales specialist and ‘edutech expert’ Emily Pirtle

PPDS has announced the appointment of accomplished AV expert, Emily Pirtle, further strengthening its sales team in North America. Reaffirming PPDS’ uncompromised commitment to delivering best in class support, service and experiences to customers and partners, Emily has accepted the newly created role of Regional Sales Manager for TOLA, encompassing Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arkansas – four key growth markets representing over 3.5 million small businesses and opportunities. With an accomplished career spanning over 20 years, Texarkana based Emily – a certified Math and Intervention Specialist – brings a diverse set of skills and knowledge to the PPDS North America team, with specialist expertise and leadership experience in sales, account management, client relations, strategic planning, and business development.

In what may be a first in the AV industry, Emily also boasts a unique 360 degree understanding of the education market. Having started her career in the classroom as a teacher, Emily later transitioned into – and excelled in – edutech sales, having gained firsthand insight into the challenges schools face and how best to support their needs and advance learning using technology. Emily’s previous role at a leading AV integration firm saw her supporting over 45 school districts across Texas and Oklahoma, working with executive leaders and administrators, advising them on hardware, software, AV, network infrastructure, digital signage, and

PPDS has announced the appointment of accomplished AV expert, Emily Pirtle, further strengthening its sales team in North America.

Solotech has

appointment of Stéphane Lefebvre as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

security solutions to directly support student and district success.

Originally drawn to PPDS through her dealings with the company, notably impressed by quality of product, as well as service and support provided for educational solutions – Emily will now play a key role in PPDS’ upward trajectory and ambitions in the region, with retail, education, corporate, and hospitality among key target markets. Reporting to Bruce Wyrwitzke, Director of Sales for North America at PPDS, Emily’s primary responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, developing and managing key relationships with integrators, resellers, and customers, identifying new sales opportunities and leads, and collaborating with partners.

She will also work with national and international teams to develop and implement new strategies to further increase and expand brand recognition and drive product awareness of PPDS’ evolving portfolio of award-winning Philips Professional Displays, and complementary hardware and software solutions, to a wider audience. These include the latest range of Philips digital signage, ePaper and interactive displays, dvLED (indoor and outdoor), and professional TVs, together with advanced cloud management software, Philips Wave, all available across North America. Discussing her new role, Emily said: “I feel all roads in my career have led me to this moment. PPDS is part of a globally respected brand, with a legacy of introducing world first and cutting-edge technologies. What truly stood out to me, though, was the opportunity to work with talented, driven, and genuinely collaborative people. I’m so pleased to be joining the team and to be part of its success.”

Bruce Wyrwitzke added: “Emily’s experience, enthusiasm, and proven commitment to best practice business made her the ideal candidate for this important and exciting role. Texas alone provides some incredible growth opportunities, with the state remaining one of the most resilient and high performing in the US, adding over 125,000 new businesses in 2024**. The education market is also key for us, and Emily’s edutech expertise brings our partners and customers a real wealth of support and knowledge.”

Midwich has announced the appointment of Tyrone Zagnoiev as Experience Centre Manager at Innovation Housethe company’s industry-leading experience facility in Bracknell.

Midwich appoints Tyrone Zagnoiev as Experience Centre Manager

Midwich has announced the appointment of Tyrone Zagnoiev as Experience Centre Manager at Innovation House - the company’s industry-leading experience facility in Bracknell. In his new role, Tyrone will oversee the management and day-to-day operation of Innovation House, creating a space where customers can experience the latest technology first-hand, build stronger partnerships, and discover how Midwich can help them achieve their business goals. He will also lead marketing and event initiatives that enhance the customer

journey, highlight innovations from UK&I group partners, and elevate the profile of both Innovation House and the Midwich brand.

Tyrone joins from Jabra and brings extensive experience in customer experience management and AV solutions, positioning him perfectly to enhance Innovation House’s role as the UK’s premier destination for technology demonstrations and partner showcases. Tyrone Zagnoiev, Experience Centre Manager at Midwich Ltd, said: “Innovation House is a unique destination where customers can experience the very latest technologies from across the AV industry, all in one place. Rather than focusing on a single area such as LED or UC, it brings together the full portfolio across Midwich brands – spanning cinema, projection, retail, and much more. It’s an opportunity for customers to explore a wide range of solutions under one roof, helping them see how different technologies work together to create powerful, connected experiences. I’m excited to build on its success, helping to increase engagement, loyalty, and awareness while driving opportunities for Midwich and our partners.”

Tyrone’s appointment comes as Innovation House undergoes a significant refresh, reinforcing its position as a dynamic hub for innovation and collaboration in the AV industry. Greg Bennett, General Manager at Midwich Ltd, said: “Tyrone’s appointment marks an exciting step forward for Innovation House. His focus on creating meaningful customer experiences will be instrumental in strengthening our relationships, building brand loyalty, and ensuring Innovation House continues to be a flagship destination for our partners and customers.” This appointment further underscores Midwich’s commitment to investing in people and facilities that enhance customer engagement and showcase innovation.

d&b welcomes Markus Zimehl as Commercial Director (DACH)

d&b audiotechnik has appointed Markus Zimehl as Commercial Director for the DACH region. In this key role, he will drive growth in the strategically important DACH region, further shaping go-to-market models, developing partner programs, and strengthening team

structures. With more than a decade of experience in the pro audio industry, Zimehl brings a proven track record of strategic leadership and market expansion. He most recently served as Area Manager DACH & North Europe at Adam Hall, overseeing ten sales regions across DACH, Benelux, and Scandinavia. Previously, he managed global inside sales and export departments and has hands-on experience in music retail and as a FOH technician.

“To me, d&b sets the absolute benchmark in sound, whether at a large festival or in a restaurant. You can always expect excellent audio with even coverage across every corner of the venue. My impression has always been that d&b has come a long way and continues to push boundaries, especially with immersive solutions such as d&b Soundscape proving that stereo isn’t the final word in live audio,” says Markus Zimehl. “I’m excited to work with the highly dedicated and experienced DACH team to set the sails forward together.”

“Markus joining our DACH team in this pivotal role is fundamental for the on-going development of the region,” adds Christian Orcin, Territory Manager EMEA, d&b audiotechnik. “With his industry experience and leadership, we are better positioned to support our partner network and embrace new market opportunities. Together with the continued dedication of the DACH team, I am confident we will build on our momentum and drive even greater growth.”

d&b audiotechnik has appointed Markus Zimehl as Commercial Director for the DACH region.

Backup Tech welcomes Sarah James as new Trustee

Backup announces Sarah James as a new Trustee of the charity. A long-standing member of the Backup team as its PR consultant, Sarah will continue to spearhead the charity’s outreach to industry media and now, also play a part in guiding its direction. Through her work with Backup and as CEO of industry PR company, Gasoline Media, Sarah has seen the challenges freelancers face first-hand and is passionate about promoting the work Backup does in helping when times are tough. As part of her work for Gasoline Media’s clients and through her interviews for the Backup Podcast, Sarah regularly gets to talk to freelancers about their experiences, good and bad, of what the industry has to offer. It is a broad insight into the wellbeing of the industry and something Sarah is keen to do more of as she looks forward to her first year as a trustee.

“I’ve worked with Backup for almost a decade and the work we do is one of the things I love most about my job,” she says. “Being invited to be a Trustee of the charity is an honour and I’m delighted to take on the role. The industry is constantly changing and the people who work in it are facing new challenges as a result. It is vital that Backup can keep pace with their needs.” Sarah is also passionate about education and wellbeing, seeing Backup’s remit as not just providing support when things go wrong, but also playing a part in equipping industry professionals with the skill they need to work better, not harder.

“Financial and accounting decisions can be daunting, Backup is looking for ways to give freelancers the tools to stay financially resilient with initiatives like the Financial Literacy workshops. These are hosted by The BACK LOUNGE’s Suzi Green and Paul Jones from UK Live Event Freelancers Forum and PDFs are available on the website.” Sarah continues. “Alongside this, the wellbeing resources like the funding for Mental Health First Aider courses are vital. Increasing the numbers of Mental Health First Aiders in the industry is key to supporting technicians and creatives, whether they are working in a theatre, on an event stage or tour bus.”

As a Backup Trustee, Sarah is uniquely placed to continue to help spread the word about what Backup can

do, not only in times of crisis, but every day. She is also committed to raising awareness of the great work that Backup Partners, Ambassadors and Fundraisers are doing to support ongoing work. By listening to practitioners, Backup can stay up to date with the issues that affect the industry and its workers, to promote better working practices and react quickly in times of need.

“I’m delighted to welcome Sarah to the Board of Trustees at Backup,” says Backup Chair, Lee Dennison. “As we continue to position the charity at the forefront of supporting the live events industry, it’s vital that our board reflects the experience, knowledge, and passion that drive this sector forward. Sarah is a fantastic addition, bringing not only a wealth of industry insight and understanding of how to truly engage with our community, but also a strategic focus, energy, and empathy that align perfectly with Backup’s mission. I’m personally looking forward to her input and support as we continue to grow and strengthen the charity’s impact.”

PSCo strengthens LED services with appointment of Laura McCay

PSCo, part of the Midwich Group, is pleased to announce the appointment of Laura McCay as LED project manager, based at Innovation House in Bracknell. In her new role, Laura will oversee the operational delivery of LED projects from inception through to handover. Her responsibilities include coordinating with customers and cross-functional teams, managing project time-

Backup announces Sarah James as a new Trustee of the charity.

lines, resources, and budgets, and ensuring all projects are delivered to the highest standard. Working closely with PSCo’s pre-sales and engineering teams, Laura will also play a crucial role in ensuring seamless execution and troubleshooting operational challenges.

Laura joins from Kinly, bringing with her significant AV industry experience and a proven track record of managing complex projects. Since joining, she has already made a strong impact on both customers and colleagues, reinforcing PSCo’s commitment to delivering exceptional LED solutions.

Greg Bennett, general manager at Midwich, said: “I am super pleased to have Laura join the team, who brings with her a wealth of experience and is already making a great impression with the team and customers. At PSCo, we’re always focused on supporting our customers in achieving their business goals by delivering exceptional service, technical expertise, and reliable solutions they can trust. Laura’s appointment strengthens our ability to do just that, ensuring we continue to provide the highest standard of LED project delivery and customer support.”

Laura’s appointment strengthens PSCo’s LED offering and aligns with the wider refresh of Innovation House, designed to showcase the latest technologies available

through the Midwich UK&I group of businesses. Laura McCay added: “I’m delighted to be joining PSCo at such an exciting time for the business. With the refresh of Innovation House and a growing demand for cutting-edge LED solutions, I’m looking forward to working with the team to support our customers in delivering outstanding projects and to help drive continued success in this space.”

Andrew Goulson Named Strategic Account Manager for LEA Professional

Aligning with its mission of constant and constructive team growth, LEA Professional announces the appointment of Andrew Goulson as Strategic Account Manager. At LEA, Goulson will support LEA’s sales and expansion efforts, working closely with the team to represent LEA’s rich technology catalogue, featuring industry-first advancements in intelligent IT solutions, best-in-class DSP, and smart power management. Goulson has nearly 20 years of experience in the AV industry, specializing

Aligning with its mission of constant and constructive team growth, LEA Professional announces the appointment of Andrew Goulson as Strategic Account Manager.

PSCo, part of the Midwich Group, is pleased to announce the appointment of Laura McCay as LED project manager, based at Innovation House in Bracknell.1

in live sound and recording engineering. He will leverage this extensive experience by collaborating nationally with LEA’s outstanding representatives and dealers. “I’m excited to join such a driven and forward-thinking team at LEA,” said Goulson. “With my background, I feel well-equipped to immediately connect with the technology, understand the needs of our partners in the field, and integrate seamlessly into the company’s culture of innovation and collaboration.”

As Strategic Account Manager, Goulson will work to expand the adoption of LEA Professional’s award-winning Network Connect series of professional amplifiers and the companion Dante Connect series, featuring Dante and AES67 connectivity, in the US. These series enable integrators to use cloud-based remote control, monitoring, notifications, and more from any internet-enabled device, allowing them to stay connected anywhere in the world. “We remain fully committed to growing the LEA team with top-tier talent, and bringing Andrew on board is a significant step forward in that mission,” said Scott Robbins, VP of Sales at LEA Professional. “We’re excited to welcome him and look forward to the impact he will make across our national network.”

i3CONNECT appoints Tim Allenden as Country Sales Manager

i3CONNECT has announced Tim Allenden as Country Sales Manager for the UK and Ireland, strengthening its team as the company continues to expand across the UK and Ireland. Tim brings more than 15 years of experience in the AV and collaboration sector, working closely with education and corporate partners nationwide. In his new role, he will focus on developing channel and end-user relationships whilst driving growth across i3CONNECT’s interactive display and collaboration portfolio. “The UK and Ireland are key markets for i3CONNECT, and local knowledge makes a real difference,” said Francois Barlinckhoff, CCO of i3CONNECT. “Tim’s experience in the AV Industry and market knowledge will help us continue to build strong, long-term partnerships.”

I3CONNECT is one of the world’s leading names in large-format touchscreens and interactive solutions for education and collaboration. In 2024, i3CONNECT was born when i3-Technologies and CTOUCH joined forces. Now, we blend cutting-edge tech with a clear vision & mission. “It’s an exciting time to lead i3CONNECT in the UK and Ireland,” said Tim Allenden. “The company’s focus on reliability, sustainability and simplicity really stands out, and I’m looking forward to supporting our partners across the region.”

Rise Group - new structure to drive global growth

Rise WIB and Rise AV, advocacy groups championing gender diversity and professional development in the broadcast and AV sectors, have announced key leadership updates and organisational developments as they continue to expand their reach and impact across the

i3CONNECT has announced Tim Allenden as Country Sales Manager for the UK and Ireland, strengthening its team as the company continues to expand across the UK and Ireland.

industry and around the globe. Having always operated as a not-for-profit organisation, The Rise Group is now formally incorporated as a company limited by guarantee, a structure commonly used by charities and membership bodies. This transition strengthens Rise’s governance and ensures that all funds continue to be reinvested to support its mission of advancing gender diversity and professional development in the Broadcast and AV industry.

A company limited by guarantee does not have shareholders so the current Non-Executive Directors, will be appointed as guarantors and form the Leadership Board. The new company structure will be fully operational from April 2026, aligning with the start of the organisation’s new financial year. The Rise Group is pleased to welcome Jon Sidwick to its Leadership Board. Jon brings extensive experience and a respected voice from across the professional AV industry, strengthening Rise AV’s ability to drive equality, inclusion, and career development within this dynamic field. Jon has previously worked as Head of LCD Sales at Sharp, Senior Vice President at TD Synnex/Maverick AV Solutions, President of Collabtech Group, Co-Owner and Chief Storyteller at Blue Touch Paper and is currently a Board Member for InfoComm Asia. Additionally, he has worked with Avixa for a number of years in the Leader Search Committee (LSC), Vice Chairman of the Board, Chairman of the Board and finally as Chair of

LSc and Officer.

Jon joins existing Leadership Team members, Nicki Fisher, Sadie Groom, Samantha Harrison, Claire Da Silva, Namata Sahmah, Tim Williams and Charlotte Wheeler who represent key areas of the broadcast and media technology landscape, helping to ensure Rise’s initiatives continue to serve all parts of the industry. Rise WIB also announces that Nicki Fisher will be stepping down as UK Chapter Advisory Board Lead, with Abigail Hughes, Director of Sales Operations for Global Partnerships, ITV Studios, taking on the role. Nicki’s leadership and dedication have been instrumental in the growth of Rise, and the organisation looks forward to Abigail continuing this momentum into 2026.

2025 has been a milestone year, launching Rise AV into the AV market, and successful programmes including the six-month Mentoring Programme and Elevate Programme, a leadership development programme for women in AV. Rise WIB will also exhibit for the first time at NAB New York and both Rise AV and Rise WIB will exhibit at ISE 2026, continuing its mission to advocate for diversity and inclusion on an international stage. Following the success of the Rise AV UK mentoring programme, the next chapter will launch in 2026 in APAC. Rise WIB will also be launching its eighth chapter in Canada with further territory growth planned for 2026.

AtlasIED appoints Cameron Javdani as VP of Market Development

AtlasIED has announced the appointment of Cameron Javdani as Vice President of Market Development for Security Solutions. This appointment supports the company’s growing commitment to security-oriented communication solutions and strategic partnerships within the ecosystem. Javdani has extensive expertise in both the audio and security sectors, earning a solid reputation as a respected voice within the Security Industry Association and among leading integrator networks. His background includes key leadership roles focused on market development, channel partnerships, and technological advancements to address the evolving demands of the industry. “Cameron will lead the expansion of our partnerships at both the integrator and ecosystem levels,” said Michael Peveler, Vice President of Sales at AtlasIED. “He is an incredibly well-respected part of the security industry and SIA community, and we are happy to add his leadership and insight to our security solutions team.”

In his new role, Javdani will focus on accelerating AtlasIED’s presence in the security market by strengthening relationships with integrators, consultants, and technology partners, while expanding industry outreach and advocacy for AtlasIED’s unified communications and life safety platforms. “I’m honoured to join AtlasIED at such a pivotal time for the security solutions business,” said Javdani. “AtlasIED’s innovation, commitment to the channel, and vision for integrated audio and security technology are aligned with where the industry is heading. I look forward to building strong partnerships that create meaningful value for our customers and the greater security ecosystem.”

AtlasIED has announced the appointment of Cameron Javdani as Vice President of Market Development for Security Solutions.

The Rise Group is pleased to welcome Jon Sidwick to its Leadership Board

ISE 2026: push beyond the ordinary

Step into a world unlike any other, where boundaries are meant to be pushed and imagination comes alive. ISE 2026 makes its return, 3-6 February at the Fira de Barcelona, with a theme that invites the industry to explore every opportunity and redefine what’s possible. ISE 2026 will transform the Fira de Barcelona into the epicentre of innovation and discovery for attendees to experience the truly remarkable. This year’s theme, Push Beyond, challenges visitors to leave the ordinary behind and embrace a new standard of excellence. Step away from the expected, refresh your mindset, and indulge your senses in an event that promises an almost unimaginable experience. “At ISE, we are dedicated to inspiring the community and exploring what’s possible,” says Mike Blackman, Managing Director of Integrated Systems Events. “Each year, we aim to deliver an experience that fuels creativity and drives innovation. ISE 2026 will open new horizons, ignite fresh ambition, and bring together the global AV and systems integration community for an unforgettable celebration of innovation - where ideas take form and the future begins to unfold.”

It’s not just one industry. ISE 2026 throws open its doors to an incredible spectrum of verticals, from education, enterprise, live events, and hospitality to retail, healthcare, and beyond. Wherever you fit in the global landscape, ISE is the destination where every sector finds fresh inspiration and ambitions meet opportunity. To make every experience count, ISE 2026 features dedicated Technology Zones designed to serve the unique needs of each market. Whether visitors are seeking the

latest in digital signage, unified communications, smart building solutions, or residential technology, you’ll discover immersive spaces tailored to your interests. Each Zone is a launchpad, fuelled by innovation, brimming with solutions, and ready to connect you with the partners and insights that matter most.

To ensure every attendee enjoys a seamless experience in Barcelona, ISE has once again partnered with bnetwork, its Official Accommodation & Logistical Services Partner for ISE 2026. Through bnetwork’s dedicated platform, visitors can book hotels at competitive rates and choose from a wide range of accommodation options, all with personalized customer support. Beyond hotel reservations, bnetwork also offers transportation solutions and venue-booking services, making it easier than ever to coordinate every aspect of the trip. Attendees are encouraged to plan early and take advantage of these exclusive services at isehotels.bnetwork.com

Registration for ISE 2026 is now open, so take your place among the visionaries, trailblazers, and creative minds from every corner of the globe. Reserve your spot at the event where tomorrow’s innovations are unveiled, and let’s Push Beyond what’s possible - together. As part of ISE’s continued commitment to attendee security, all attendees are asked to provide a valid passport or national ID number during the registration process. In partnership with the Catalan police, this measure helps us deliver a safe and seamless experience for everyone participating in ISE.

ISE 2026: new initiatives

At ISE 2026, boundaries will blur, and innovation will take centre stage, with newly announced highlights that will shape the next chapter of the event. Returning to Fira de Barcelona on 3–6 February 2026, it’s poised to rewrite the playbook for the world’s AV and systems integration community. ‘Push Beyond’ sets a new tempo for the global AV and systems integration industry. ISE is energised to unite the industry movers, shakers and changemakers who are redefining what’s possible and pushing the boundaries of innovation. From groundbreaking technology to unforgettable experiences, ISE doesn’t just reflect the industry, it drives it forward. The future of our industry is here and now.

This year’s theme, ‘Push Beyond’, mirrors ISE’s unwavering drive for progress – already reaching maximum capacity at the Fira de Barcelona, expanding by 5% from 2025. With four months to go until the show, more than 1,400 exhibitors are already confirmed, including 184 first-time exhibitors, all rallying beneath the banner of possibility. ISE’s momentum is undeniable. This growth not only fuels its ambition to expand and lead but also secures its place as the world’s unrivalled showcase for the AV and systems integration community.

Other new initiatives announced in the press briefing included:

Fira de Barcelona Hall Zero Update – The Blueprint for Tomorrow

Looking to the future, Hall Zero at Fira de Barcelona is

set to redefine expectations. To meet the highest construction and safety standards, the Hall Zero completion date has been rescheduled, with ISE’s first use planned for 2028. Whilst ISE acknowledges this delay, it fully supports the vision and scale of the project, recognising the importance of a seamless and safe opening. In the meantime, the show goes on – in full force. Every corner of the current Fira will be optimised, dialled in for world-class discovery and engagement.

Since relocating to Barcelona in 2021, ISE has shattered records, with the Fira playing a key role in fuelling that success. Together, they have propelled Barcelona to the forefront of AV and systems integration. The opening of Hall Zero will mark a transformative milestone for ISE, cementing its status as a global leader in high-impact innovation and creative collaboration.

High-End Listening Suites - Turn up the experience ISE 2026 will introduce Listening Suites in CC2, the newly refurbished heart of Fira Barcelona. Each suite is carefully curated, blending state-of-the-art acoustics with inventive design, ensuring every note resonates with clarity and nuance, perfect for audio brands looking to go beyond pro audio.

Sol Rashidi Announced as Keynote - Where leadership meets the edge of AI

Sol Rashidi, the world’s first Chief AI Officer for enterprises, will deliver a headliner keynote at ISE at 13:00 on Wednesday, 5 February 2026. Sol holds 10 patents, is the best-selling author of Your AI Survival Guide, and is a three-time TEDx speaker with over 1 million views. Recognized among the 50 Most Powerful Women in

Tech and honoured with multiple Forbes recognitions, she brings unmatched expertise at the intersection of AI, technology, and corporate strategy—bridging innovation with real business impact.

ISE Cybersecurity Summit - Securing the Future of Integrated AV Technologies

ISE 2026 will debut the Cybersecurity Summit. In an era where digital threats extend far beyond traditional IT concerns, the AV sector finds itself at a pivotal juncture. Cybersecurity has evolved into a business-critical factor. Taking place Thursday, 5 February 2026, the summit will be chaired by Pere Ferrer i Sastre, a senior public executive and strategic advisor with over 15 years of experience in leadership roles across public safety, digital transformation, and critical infrastructure governance. The summit will tackle the hard edge of digital risk, including regulation, integration, and resiliencewhere healthcare, transport, and government intersect with AV’s boldest ambitions.

EdTech Congress Barcelona 2026 - Education reengineered

ISE is partnering with EduTech Cluster and Fira de Barcelona to co-host the EdTech Congress on 4–5 February at the Palau de Congressos. Building on EdTech Congress’s proven track record and ISE’s long-term commitment to Barcelona and the EdTech market, the event is set to become a leading platform where educational purpose meets technological innovation. The EdTech Congress will feature an extensive content programme focusing on AI and its impact on education, introducing decision-makers to forward-thinking concepts and transformative products that are shaping the

classroom of the future.

ISE Introduces Spark – One Sector, One week, One mission.

Spark kindles a bold new chapter, where the brightest minds ignite ideas to transform the creative industries. Making its debut in 2026, Spark is a unique, cross-vertical gathering that unites trailblazers, visionaries and pioneers from the full spectrum of the creative industries. Here, creative minds collide, ignite, and set the stage for breakthroughs that will ripple beyond the event and redefine what’s possible for the entire industry. “ISE has always been more than just about technology on display; it’s where industries come together to inspire, to create, and to challenge what’s possible,” states Mike Blackman, Managing Director at Integrated Systems Events. “With our ‘Push Beyond’ ethos for 2026, we are inviting everyone to join us in Barcelona to shape the next chapter of AV and systems integration, together.”

rame Projection Screen

• Skyworth’s Canvas Elite Art TV

• Sony’s Bravia Liquidview 4K UHD HDR Displays

• Trinnov Audio’s MR 208 HPA Audio over IP Processor

• Universal Remote Control’s URC Voice

• Wisdom Audio’s all-weather line of line source loudspeakers

“