Intelligence on the Edge
Do you have an App for that?
In video surveillance, the concept of centralized intelligent systems and intelligence
on the edge is an on-going conversation, as both solutions have pros
and cons depending on specific user needs and applications. Now, there’s a
new paradigm to consider that will change the way we look at intelligence
on the edge and in the process, revolutionize video security and surveillance.
Simply put, it’s the ability to download Apps onto cameras. This is a game changer
for several reasons.
Although the use of Apps is part of most people’s everyday lives, this is a new
concept for professional surveillance cameras and devices. Apps enable devices to
deliver specific features and capabilities to surveillance cameras on an as needed
basis. This presents a highly cost-efficient means to deploy advanced features that
were previously only available on a system-wide scale.
Third-party companies are using standard APIs to develop applications that add
even more value to surveillance cameras with open platforms, such as Samsung’s
WiseNetIII IP cameras. This allows cameras to be quickly, easily and cost-effectively
customized with additional features and functionalities. As a result, camera-based
apps provide a leading-edge yet simple solution to create innovative video surveillance
and security systems tailored for users’ specific needs and applications.
For an idea of just how this will revolutionize video security, consider the way
Apps have enhanced our smartphone and tablet experiences, transforming the way
we interact with our devices on a daily basis. Like video surveillance cameras,
today’s smartphones and tablets are incredibly powerful devices that provide a
multitude of features and functionalities right out of the box.
In theory, one could simply turn on their smartphone or tablet and get incredible
value from using the factory configuration and pre-loaded applications.
In reality, however, that’s not how we use these devices. Instead, users customize
their experience by selecting those third-party apps that will add or enhance the features
of their device that matter most to them. With a seemingly unlimited number
of Apps available, there’s something for everyone—and that’s the beauty of apps. No
matter what you’re looking for, whether it’s something to boost your productivity or
help you unwind, you’re sure to find an App that does what you want.
Each of these Apps are available for a tiny percentage of the device’s original
purchase price. This ability to quickly, easily and cost-effectively personalize technology
allows smartphones and tablets to deliver even greater value to end users.
The security industry is now on the verge of a similar seismic shift thanks to
these new camera-based Apps. Available Apps are limited at this point because
the concept is still in its infancy. However, there are numerous Apps currently in
development that will be available in the near future.
As with the smartphone/tablet model, camera-based Apps allow users to personalize
their video surveillance experience to improve the effectiveness of their
systems and maximize their return on investment. Apps represent an innovative,
economical way for users to ensure their video surveillance systems meet their
specific system needs, compliance and/or regulations, and more with the flexibility
to add specific features that deliver enhanced intelligence at the edge when and
where they want.
Cloud connectivity, video direct to storage, people-counting, intrusion detection,
queue management, license plate recognition, face capture and recognition,
and transit and cargo recognition represent just a small percentage of the advanced
functionality and intelligence camera-based Apps can bring to the edge. End users
have the freedom to deploy their ideal combination of edge Applications to
match their specific requirements. And best of all, users can rest assured knowing
that camera manufacturers will be testing and certifying Apps on their devices, so
they can have confidence that the App will perform the intended function without
hampering any of the built-in features and functions of the host device.
The concept of placing Apps directly onto cameras doesn’t just push the boundaries
of professional surveillance and security system capabilities - Apps may completely
redefine how systems are conceived and deployed. The ability to further
enhance today’s high performance, feature-rich cameras on an individual basis is
truly monumental. If the smartphone and tablet model is any indication, camerabased
Apps will revolutionize video security and surveillance. In
the very near future, when talking with users about customizing a
video surveillance solution to meet their specific needs, expect to
hear security resellers say, “We’ve got an App for that!”
This article originally appeared in the March 2015 issue of Security Today.