How AI Can Upgrade the Capabilities of Security Surveillance Cameras

Surveillance systems are evolving rapidly, thanks to the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics. When integrated with AI, CCTV cameras can recognise objects, analyse data in real time, and even trigger automated responses — all without the need for any human supervision. This technological advancement is redefining the way security personnel detect, monitor, and respond to threats. Here’s a look at the benefits of integrating CCTV cameras with AI. 

Improved Security and Privacy Settings

Boasting features such as intrusion detection, audio detection, and facial recognition, AI-enabled CCTV cameras can identify potential threats such as unauthorised entry and loitering. When these incidents happen, they send out mobile alerts to security personnel for their immediate action. Such real-time intelligence enhances operational productivity and shortens the reaction time, allowing first responders to be quickly  deployed in the event of crowd swelling or fire detection. In the retail context, this capability can help to reduce the risk of vandalism and theft, all while protecting the safety of shoppers and employees. 

For the longest time, privacy and security are like oil and water. That has changed with dynamic masking, an AI-based method that allows for flexible privacy protection. This technology can mask sensitive information such as faces, people, licence plates or even backgrounds, all while still providing necessary security insights. Customisable masking levels allow users to blur specific details or set exclusion zones for critical areas, ensuring that privacy is respected without compromising security. 

Data-driven Decision-making

In the digital era, data is power. AI-enabled CCTVs unlock streams of data that can be mined for valuable insights. Now, businesses can drive success by analysing trends and customer behaviours, and then formulate effective marketing strategies. For example, retail owners can recognise peak traffic hours, track customer movement, or understand product preferences to optimise their store layouts. 

On the other hand, office managers can harness real-time data on occupancy, traffic flow, and desk or meeting room usage to improve their workspace utilisation. From reducing energy waste to enabling flexible work arrangements, businesses can now boost their efficiency and improve the in-office experience for their employees. 

Reduce False Alarms of Detection of Loitering, Intrusion or Vandalism

False alarms drain manpower resources and divert personnel's attention away from actual threats that require immediate action. AI-enabled surveillance systems, equipped with advanced deep learning, have the ability to distinguish between genuine security threats and false alarms. What’s more, with features such as exclusion, security personnel can exclude areas where there are swaying trees or natural vegetation to reduce the chance of false alarms. 

Today, technologies such as Axis’ Lightfinder can also enhance image clarity in low-light conditions, allowing AI algorithms to better analyse activities, even in challenging environments. Profiles can also be customised to create multiple configurations for different areas or times of day, with tailored alarm profiles for each scenario, optimising efficiency and resource deployment.

Enable Automated and Targeted Monitoring

AI-powered surveillance systems boast nifty functions such as advanced object detection and classification. What this means is that it can recognise people and vehicles in video footage, thus enabling targeted monitoring. Security personnel can set predefined criteria, for example, allowing emergency vehicles such as police cars and ambulances to be given priority.  Also, they can ensure that only relevant events are flagged, reducing the likelihood of missed threats and unnecessary notifications. Without need for constant monitoring, security personnel can be freed up to focus on higher-priority tasks.

How Do AI Change the Capabilities of Different Types of Surveillance Cameras? 

All types of surveillance cameras can be integrated with AI to enhance their functionality and improve security outcomes. Here’s a look at how AI can change the capabilities of different types of cameras.

• Fixed Bullet Cameras:

  This fixed-lens CCTV camera is designed for focused surveillance, offering a pre-set viewing angle to monitor specific areas or points of interest, such as entrances, exits, or designated zones within a larger environment. With the integration of AI, fixed bullet cameras gain advanced capabilities such as licence plate recognition. They can capture licence plates with remarkable clarity and speed, making them especially effective for monitoring traffic and enhancing security in urban or road settings.

• Thermal CCTV Cameras:

  Thermal security cameras are designed to excel in challenging environments, such as dimly lit factories or warehouses. These cameras capture images by detecting the heat radiating from objects, making them highly effective in total darkness, shadows, or even under intense lighting. When powered by AI, these cameras can accurately differentiate between the heat signatures of humans, animals, and vehicles, significantly improving surveillance precision in environments where all three may be present. This helps to ensure early notifications of potential fire risks or equipment malfunctions, reducing downtime and preventing disruption to business operations.

• Explosion-Protected CCTV Cameras:

  These solutions are typically deployed in hazardous environments, including areas at risk of explosions. By offering remote visual verification of gauge and sensor readings, these cameras minimise unnecessary human exposure to dangerous zones while ensuring that safety protocols are strictly followed.  With AI integration, these cameras can monitor designated hazardous zones for conditions like gas leaks or chemical spills. The AI system can detect early signs of danger, triggering alerts to protect workers and prevent accidents in explosive environments, ensuring a safer workplace and reducing the risk of costly incidents.

Interested in finding out more about AI-powered CCTVs? Get in touch with Canon’s consultants and discover their powerful features.