Intercom products address a crucial part of the security, communications and convenience needs in both residential and business sectors, says Hangzhou, China-based Hikvision. They have evolved over time alongside the ‘leapfrog’ development in technologies created for better and safer living environments.
The transition from analogue to IP technologies
The intercom market is witnessing a significant transition from analogue to IP. Traditional analogue systems feature relatively poor audio and image quality and limited functionality. For example, they cannot be accessed using a mobile app or networked management systems. Although analogue systems are often a more economical option, more manufacturers and installers have recommended their customers shift to IP-based intercoms for their wider range of capabilities – including higher image resolution, mobile control, remote operation, and a series of smart functions.
According to Allied Market Research, the IP intercom market is projected to experience robust growth. The global IP Intercom industry generated US$2.2 billion in 2020, and is anticipated to generate $4.9 billion by 2030, witnessing a CAGR of 8.5% from 2021 to 2030.
IP intercoms bring a new level of convenience
Mobile control
IP intercoms let owners receive calls, play video, and open locks from anywhere through just a simple touch. For example, people often receive calls on their mobile devices for package deliveries or other services when they’re not at home. IP intercoms, however, allow users to give temporary access remotely to those who need it, just using a simple mobile application. This is more convenient and much safer than manually giving out passwords or key cards.
User-friendly interfaces
IP intercoms commonly provide a user-friendly screen with a clearly visible interface, simple touch interaction, intuitive operation, and multi-functional information display (e.g., weather, news, announcements, etc.). These easy-to-use features help get modern consumers accustomed to using IP intercoms since they operate very similarly to mobile phones.
High image quality
Compared to pure analogue solutions, IP intercoms provide excellent imaging with higher resolution and wider field of view. Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) and night vision are also supported to help users see clearly despite challenging light conditions, such as direct sunlight or high contrast environments during the day and darkness at night.
Intelligent authentication
IP intercoms also support multiple access methods, from ID cards and PIN codes to biometric recognition. Additionally, following recent trends in contactless solutions, IP intercoms simplify the action of opening doors while addressing common hygiene concerns.
All-in-one management
IP intercoms also offer opportunities for integration with other security systems, such as video and alarms. A unified control centre ensures all-in-one linkage among various devices and systems and facilitates convenient device operation and management, improving security for businesses and home owners.
