Throughout the past few years, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) has been increasing in many different industries. One industry where this integration has had a significant impact is the security industry, especially with security cameras. By using AI and IoT technologies in security cameras, businesses and individuals can utilize more advanced security features to protect themselves, their property, and their assets.
Artificial Intelligence & Security Cameras
Using AI with security cameras can enhance their effectiveness against threats. AI’s advanced algorithms identify specific patterns and behaviors which can be useful when analyzing video footage in real-time. When AI detects anything outside of the “normal” pattern, such as intruders, suspicious behavior, or unauthorized access, it can alert security personnel immediately. Additionally, AI-powered security cameras can provide more detailed analytics of security footage, including identifying individuals and tracking their movement.
Over the past few years, the demand for AI features in security cameras has skyrocketed. Some of the most important and popular features include:
- Object detection: One of the most significant AI features in security cameras is object detection. With this feature, cameras can detect and track people, vehicles, and other objects in real-time. This feature is useful for detecting potential threats and tracking the movement of people and vehicles.
- Facial recognition: Another common AI feature in security cameras is facial recognition. With this feature, cameras capture the faces of individuals and compare the image to a database of known face. Many companies use facial recognition in their access control systems because it maximizes security while being convenient to use.
- Behavioral analysis: Like humans, AI learns what is “normal” behavior and what is “abnormal”. Behavioral analysis is the process of using AI to compare the behavior of individual and objects in the camera’s field of view with what it has learned to be “normal”. For example, it can detect suspicious behavior such as loitering after business hours or tampering with property because those actions do not happen on a daily basis and are considered “abnormal”.
- Abnormality detection: In addition to detecting abnormal behavior from individuals, some AI-powered security cameras can identify potential threats by detecting abnormal situations. For example, an abandoned bag in the middle of an airport would be considered abnormal because people typically keep their luggage with them at all times. Another example of an abnormal situation would be people walking in restricted areas.
- License plate recognition: Another growing trend is using AI for license plate recognition. When compared to old LPR software, AI is more accurate in reading plate numbers, even in low visibility situations and high vehicle speeds. This enables law enforcement to identify and track the movement of vehicles.
- Smart alerts: AI-powered security cameras offer more options for sending alerts when it detects potential security threats. Options include allowing the user to receive alerts only when an event is detected during a specific time period or in a marked-off area. Users can even decide which events will trigger alerts (e.g. only send an alert when people are detected but not vehicles). These alerts can be customized to include video clips, images, and other relevant information.
- Edge computing: Many AI-powered security cameras now feature edge computing capabilities, which allows them to process data locally instead of sending it to the cloud. This feature reduces latency and increases the camera’s processing power.
Internet of Things (IoT) & Security Cameras
Security cameras can also be improved with IoT technologies that connects them to a broader network of devices and sensors. By connecting cameras to other IoT-enabled devices, such as motion sensors, door locks, and alarms, businesses and individuals can create a more robust and responsive security system. For example, if a camera detects an intruder, it can trigger other IoT devices in the network, such as an alarm, which can then send an alert to security personnel or even law enforcement.
IoT-enabled security cameras allow them to communicate with other devices and systems, providing users with more comprehensive security solutions. Here are a few examples of how IoT integration has improved security camera features:
- Cloud connectivity: IoT-enabled security cameras can connect to cloud-based storage solutions, providing users with a cost-effective and scalable way to store their video footage. Additionally, storing video footage in the cloud means that users can access their footage from anywhere and at any time with internet connection.
- Smart home integration: IoT security cameras can be integrated with smart home systems to increase the flexibility of security monitoring. Users are able to control their cameras remotely and view their video footage from their smartphones or other devices.
- Voice control: Some IoT-enabled security cameras can be controlled using voice commands through devices like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
- Motion detection: If a security camera with motion detection sensors is triggered, it can set off other IoT devices, such as smart lights or sirens, to alert law enforcement or scare off intruders in the event of a security breach.
- Two-way audio: Many IoT-enabled security cameras come with two-way audio capabilities, allowing users to communicate with anyone in the camera’s field of view.
- Remote monitoring: IoT allows users to monitor their security camera footage remotely so they can receive real-time updates on their property and security.
- Advanced analytics: Like AI-powered security cameras, IoT can utilize advanced analytics to analyze video footage and help users identify potential security risks before they become a problem.
Real-Life Integration of AI & IoT
Many manufacturers have recognized the positive effects of AI and IoT in the security camera industry and have begun to integrate these technologies into their products. Some of the top security camera manufacturers that have embedded AI and IoT into their products include:
- Hikvision: Hikvision has been at the forefront of the industry’s shift towards AI and IoT. Over the past several years, they have integrated these technologies into their products to offer advanced features such as facial recognition, object detection, and automatic tracking.
- 2M Technology: 2M Technology has incorporated AI and IoT in their development of cameras that can detect and track people and vehicles, even in low light conditions. They’ve also made cameras that can be integrated with other IoT devices, such as access control systems and smart business devices.
- Axis Communications: Axis Communications produces a wide range of security cameras, including IP cameras and network cameras. They use AI in their video products to detect intrusions and loitering, track stolen cars, and alert security teams of threats. They’ve also used IoT to integrate their network intercom systems with remote access control.
- Bosch Security Systems: Like the other companies we’ve mentioned, Bosch Security Systems has been using AI in their security cameras to detect potential threats and trigger alarms. Additionally, their usage of AI helps to minimize false alarms by identifying real security events and false alarms, such as moving trees or rain.
- Honeywell: Honeywell has been using IoT technologies in a multitude of products and solutions. With IoT, they’ve developed an operating system for buildings that automates functions such as security monitoring, access, and incident response.
The integration of AI and IoT with security cameras has made them smarter and more effective than ever before. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative applications of AI and IoT in the security industry.