Milestone outlines 16 key trends set to transform the VMS sector by 2035
With AI and IoT integration
EXCLUSIVE: According to a globally renowned data-driven video technology expert, the global video management software (VMS) industry is poised to witness 16 key trends by 2035, even as the sector moves from the legacy practice of merely watching video content to predicting and influencing events almost instantaneously by 2035.
Jos Beernink, Vice President (EMEA) at Milestone Systems, delivered a thought-provoking keynote address titled ‘From Pixels to Platforms—Emerging Trends in Video Management Software’ on September 10, 2024, at the Milestone XPerience Days Middle East 2024 in Dubai City.
The address discussed the future of VMS and its transformative potential across industries, focusing on the significant shift from passive observation to proactive intervention.
VMS and OT
VMS broadly falls within the operational technology (OT) industry. OT is hardware and software that detects or causes a change by directly monitoring and controlling industrial equipment, assets, processes, and events. OT is also considered the evolution of the IT industry.
Speaking to a select audience of video management systems (VMS) professionals, technology partners, and technology aggregators operating in the MENA region, Copenhagen-based Jos stressed that IT and security technologies are converging and creating new business models – AI, IoT, cloud, analytics, computer vision, responsibility – that can help solve customer needs in new and innovative ways and provide opportunities to create superior customer experiences.
The VMS sector will encompass these 16 key trends by 2035:
- Quantum computing-powered analytics: Quantum computing will revolutionise video analytics, providing almost limitless processing power.
- Self-learning surveillance systems: AI will evolve to a point where VMS systems no longer require manual programming for specific tasks.
- Emotion and intent recognition: Advanced computer vision algorithms will be able to detect human emotions and intentions.
- Holographic monitoring and 3D VMS interface: In the future, traditional flat screens may be replaced by holographic displays, where surveillance operators manage three-dimensional video feeds in real time.
- Surveillance beyond vision – multisensory VMS: Future VMS systems will integrate other sensory data, such as sound, smell, temperature, and even air quality.
- Surveillance-driven augmented intelligence for cities: Video surveillance could become a central component for augmented intelligence systems governing entire smart cities.
- AI-driven ethics and privacy guardians: AI systems could be developed to enforce ethical guidelines and privacy protections automatically.
- Biometric ecosystem integration: Facial recognition will become just one component of a broader biometric ecosystem.
- Surveillance systems with autonomous operation and decision-making: In the future, VMS will likely be equipped with autonomous decision-making capabilities.
- CCTV as a hyper sensor: CCTV cameras are becoming robust data sensors capable of collecting much more than security footage. When combined with AI, IoT, and data integration, CCTV systems transform into multi-functional tools that optimise operations, intelligence, security and beyond.
- Super-resolution with deep learning: Super-resolution enhances low-quality video using deep learning, improving detail, clarity, and real-time analysis capabilities.
- Cybersecurity at the next level: As VMS integrates IoT, AI, and quantum computing, cybersecurity must evolve to counter new vulnerabilities like deep fakes and encryption threats, requiring advanced detection technologies.
- Deepfakes: Manipulating video to create realistic fake footage challenges security and requires advanced detection technologies.
- Cartoonisation: The process of transforming live-action video footage into a cartoon-like or animated style and converting live footage into animated forms, anonymising individuals for privacy while maintaining real-time behaviour analysis and situational awareness.
- 6G: 6G’s ultra-fast speeds and low latency will revolutionise VMS, enabling real-time, high-definition video analytics and global connectivity.
- Human rights; responsible use of technology: The UN Global Compact is an initiative to encourage businesses and organisations worldwide to adopt sustainable and socially responsible policies. It aligns businesses with ten universally accepted principles in human rights, labour, the environment, and anti-corruption.
Jos also revealed that the global VMS and VsaaS market (excluding China) is expected to reach $3.6 billion in 2028 from $1.82 billion in 2023, led by growth in VSaaS, which denotes a CAGR of 25.7% from 2023 to 2028.
EMEA market position
Summarising Milestone’s performance in the EMEA market, Jos noted that from a 14.8% market share in 2026, the company attained a 21.6% market share in 2023, above competitors’ average performance. He attributed the company’s stellar performance to its partners and customers in the EMEA region.
Jos said Milestone is a partner-driven company, adding that its global network of diverse partners is central to its success. “Together, we deliver the best solutions on the market while changing perceptions of what’s possible with video technology,” he added.
While Milestone specialises in software/hardware (speciality cameras, sensors & RFID) on its own, its technology partners’ network encompasses distributors (NVR, DVR & encoders, operator software), resellers (GIS & GS, IT infrastructure), and end-customers (access control systems, building systems).
New phase
Reiterating Milestone’s corporate theme of ‘Making The World See,’ Jos explained, “We are moving beyond merely watching; we are now entering a phase where we predict and influence events almost instantaneously.”
He noted that this evolution parallels advancements in information communication technology—from the early days of typewriters and mainframes to today’s instant email communication and remote work.
Jos detailed the convergence of IT and security industries, underscoring the emergence of trends such as advanced analytics, behaviour recognition, and technology integration with everyday tasks.
He pointed out the vast amounts of data generated by billions of cameras worldwide, with 99% of footage currently going unused. He also stressed the opportunity to harness this data more effectively, moving beyond traditional uses.
“There is so much more to explore and innovate,” Jos said, urging attendees to engage with the latest developments at the Milestone Systems Expo (September 9-10, 2024) in Dubai City. “We are on the brink of a new era in operational technology, and I am excited for what lies ahead,” he concluded.
The Milestone XPerience Days global series encompasses the US, UAE, France, UK, Italy, South Africa, Denmark, Saudi Arabia, and Germany.
Milestone reported a historic net revenue of $242.71 million and earnings before interest and taxation (EBIT) of $15.10 million for the fiscal year 2023, boosted by its role in crucial sectors like healthcare and hospitality.
Featured image: Jos Beernink, Vice President (EMEA) at Milestone Systems, outlines the 16 key trends that will influence the global VMS industry by 2035. Jos spoke to industry attendees at Milestone XPerience Days Middle East on September 10, 2024, in Dubai City. Credit: Arnold Pinto
Last Updated on 3 months by Arnold Pinto
