By Ken Kobayashi
Sony

AI is a trending topic that has been gaining traction and dominating mindshare in the news and the technology space. It is one of the most exciting, disruptive and controversial technologies in recent memory but with a bit of education and context, it is easy to see the extreme promise and relevance that it holds for markets and users in the ProAV community.

Defining AI can be complex since there are many branches and types of AI. Additionally, it’s important to understand that AI is not synonymous with smart technologies. At its core, artificial intelligence is the simulation of human processes, such as thinking or learning, conducted by machines. AI technologies adopt built-in learning algorithms that evolve over time based on a user’s interactions. From facial recognition, room management and deep learning to auto framing, avatars and language translation, there are many ways we can integrate AI into the pro AV space. In classrooms and boardrooms, digital signage and beyond, AI has strong potential in our industry for its ability to enable faster, more productive, and smarter automation, enrichment, personalization, interactivity, easier communication, more immersive content creation and enhanced creativity.

And of course, AI can facilitate the collection of robust historical or real-time data that helps empower users and provides a more customized and meaningful experience, which often translates to more engagement and retention. While this all could initially be perceived as invasive, it also has the ability to provide a more tailored, efficient and relevant experience for users and has been shown to help lengthen dwell time.

As we look to an AI-enable future, a lack of product knowledge is perceived as the greatest limitation to implementing AI in pro AV installations now (according to the results of rAVe [PUBS]’s How Much Do You Know About AI? survey from March 2023), which is why companies like Sony are investing in implementation and education. In collaborative classrooms and offices, AI-enabled camera technologies are giving video conferencing attendees the best picture of the scenario being captured. It’s able to track and frame the presenter in the most beneficial way so that remote or in-person viewers can enjoy better and more collaborative learning and communication. Solutions like our latest SRG-A40 and SRG-A12 PTZ cameras feature revolutionary PTZ Auto Framing technology powered by built-in AI analytics. They offer high-quality imagery that automatically and consistently tracks and naturally frames presenters, without the need for a skillful operator, and provide a high-quality viewing experience for participants.

Needless to say, AI isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Its growth potential is enormous, and the benefits are apparent. By embracing AI in technology installs, customers are paving the wave for a smarter, more efficient and personalized future.

Editor’s Note: This blog is part of a series for Artificial Intelligence (AI) Appreciation Day, which is held annually on July 16. Click here to read more AI Day stories from rAVe [PUBS] and click here to read more AI Day stories from LAVNCH [CODE].

About the Author: Ken Kobayashi is business manager for Sony Electronics’ remote cameras and AI-based products. In his 20-year career with Sony, he has worked in various capacities, beginning his tenure in broadcast equipment sales. He also managed product marketing for Sony’s business projectors, simulation projectors and broadcast monitors.