InfoComm 2024: AV Technology Report
Introduction
InfoComm 2024 provided a comprehensive platform for showcasing the latest advancements and trends in audiovisual (AV) technology. This report consolidates the insights from senior consultants and associates who attended the event, organized by key technology areas: Displays, Web Conferencing, Audio Solutions, and Other Technologies. This InfoComm 2024 AV Technology Report offers an impartial and concise summary of the key innovations and significant trends presented at the event, tailored for professionals interested in advancing their understanding of the audiovisual landscape.
Display Technologies: dvLED and Transparent Displays
Direct-view LED (dvLED) displays dominated InfoComm 2024, and our team found these displays to be incredibly versatile and adaptable across various price points and applications. We believe dvLED displays are poised to become the principal choice for numerous AV installations. The exhibitors highlighted the growing popularity of 21:9 aspect ratio LCDs, favored for their additional screen real estate, which enhances user experience within platforms like Zoom and Teams without the need for a dual-display setup.
Notable among these were LG’s transparent touch screens, which our team found innovative for applications such as transparent bakery display cases and outdoor screen/enclosure combinations. We also appreciated Jupiter’s strategy of offering displays without operating systems, seeing it as a smart move for providing a streamlined and uncluttered user experience in various installations.
Samsung was particularly impressive with their exceptionally thin and easy-to-install MicroLED displays, coupled with their commitment to sustainability, demonstrated through products like the OH24B outdoor signage. Our team felt that Samsung effectively showcased their practical application with an organized and engaging booth.
Planar’s all-in-one LED Ultra Res series, now features an interactive model, and the Carbon Light Flex series with touch capabilities remain strong offerings. Sony received positive feedback from our team for their introduction of matte Pro BRAVIA screens, addressing common market complaints and improving display usability across lighting conditions.
Silicon Core’s mobile AIO 135” Direct View display stood out as particularly innovative. Our team highlighted it for its portability and ease of installation, making it especially appealing for the hospitality industry due to its flexibility.
SM&W’s Perspective
-Our consensus is that dvLED technology will increasingly dominate multiple applications due to its flexibility and cost-effectiveness.
-Transparent display technology is moving from niche applications to more mainstream use cases, driven by companies like LG and Samsung.
-The shift towards sustainability in display technology is evident, with a focus on lower power consumption and environmentally responsible product designs becoming more commonplace.
Web Conferencing Technologies and Unified Communication Solutions
The unified communication segment saw significant innovations, particularly from Poly/HP, Logitech, Cisco, and QSC, focusing on enhancing remote and hybrid meeting experiences.
The Poly Studio G62 was well-regarded by our team for its advanced video and audio capabilities tailored to small and medium-sized rooms. The device’s seamless integration with major platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom was seen as a versatile tool for modern workspaces.
Logitech’s improvements to the Sight and RightSight 2 systems were highlighted by our team for their AI-driven camera adjustments, which enhance inclusivity in hybrid meetings. However, we felt there is a need for further architectural integration to cater to high-end meeting rooms demanding premium aesthetics.
Cisco’s Room OS impressed us by integrating natively with various conferencing platforms and providing a consistent cross-platform user experience. This development is particularly significant for environments that frequently use multiple conferencing systems.
QSC made a notable impression with their Q-SYS VisionSuite, appreciated for its intuitive UI and flexible configuration options. Its recent certification for Microsoft Teams adds to its appeal, with future compatibility with Zoom eagerly anticipated by our team.
Wolfvision’s latest Cynap device also caught our attention, offering robust BYOM capabilities despite some initial confusion around their product range.
SM&W’s Perspective
-We believe the integration of AI in web conferencing technologies is a crucial step towards more intuitive and efficient meeting solutions.
-There is an ongoing shift towards flexible, cross-platform conferencing solutions that meet diverse user needs, driven by advancements from industry leaders like Cisco and Poly/HP.
-The push for seamless integration and user-friendly interfaces is a key trend, highlighted by QSC’s VisionSuite and Logitech’s AI-driven camera systems.
Audio Solutions and Developments in Immersive Audio
Immersive audio technologies took center stage at InfoComm 2024. Our team was particularly impressed by advancements showcased by Meyer Sound and D&B Audiotechnik. These manufacturers presented the latest in immersive audio and spatial mixing technologies, which have substantially improved sound source placement and tracking, thereby enhancing the overall audio experience.
Sennheiser’s updated firmware for their ceiling array microphones and UCC sound bars stood out to our team for its advanced audio control capabilities. Enhancements include improved ambient noise management and echo cancellation, which puts Sennheiser at the forefront of the competitive UCC market.
Soundtube’s Dante POE speaker and amplifier lineup garnered positive reviews from our team for offering practical solutions in distributed audio over large distances. These products simplify installation while delivering high-performance audio, making them suitable for various environments, from educational institutions to large commercial spaces.
K-Array’s ultra-miniature point-source loudspeaker was another standout innovation for us, providing impressive sound quality in a compact form factor. This design is particularly suitable for applications needing unobtrusive audio solutions, such as theater props, museum exhibits, and other niche environments.
SM&W’s Perspective
-The future of immersive audio appears bright, with continuous improvements in spatial mixing and source placement technologies.
-Advanced audio control features, demonstrated by Sennheiser, are becoming essential in the UCC market.
-Simplified installation and high-performance delivery trends are driving the adoption of products like Soundtube’s Dante POE speakers.
Other Technologies and Innovations
Higher Education
The Higher Education Summit underscored the crucial role of AV technology in educational settings. Our team noted the emphasis on proper AV planning and integrator accountability, stressing the need for user-centric design and strong support from integrators. Technologies that ensure meeting equity, like Televic’s uniCOS product line, were highlighted for fostering inclusive participation, enabling both in-room and remote attendees to engage equally.
Sustainability and Future Trends
Sustainability emerged as a major theme at InfoComm 2024. Manufacturers showcased products aimed at reducing power consumption while maintaining high performance, aligning with the industry’s broader push towards environmentally responsible practices. However, our team expressed concerns regarding non-repairable Chip on Board (COB) products potentially contributing to electronic waste, despite their energy efficiency benefits.
AI integration was another significant trend across various AV solutions. Our team noted AI’s role in automating tasks, enhancing camera tracking, and providing advanced data analytics, indicating a transformative shift towards more intelligent and user-centric AV systems.
SM&W’s Perspective
-Sustainability is becoming a critical consideration in AV product development, with an increased focus on energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
-AI integration in AV technology is seen as a game-changer, enhancing user interactions and operational efficiencies.
-The importance of inclusivity and meeting equity is increasingly acknowledged, with innovative AV solutions addressing diverse user needs.
Summary
InfoComm 2024 highlighted the AV industry’s vibrant pace of innovation and commitment to enhancing user experiences. The advancements in display and audio technologies, sustainable practices, and the increasing integration of AI are reshaping the landscape of audiovisual technology.
Key Takeaways
-dvLED Dominance and Sustainability: dvLED technology is set to dominate various applications, but sustainability concerns, particularly regarding non-repairable COB products, remain significant.
-AI and Automation: AI integration is redefining AV technology, driving towards more intuitive, efficient, and user-centric solutions.
-Unified Communication Solutions: The development of robust, flexible, and user-friendly web conferencing solutions is critical for addressing the needs of hybrid and remote work environments.
This concise report encapsulates current trends and future directions in AV technology, offering valuable insights for professionals looking to stay informed and competitive in the industry. The collective expertise of SM&W consultants provides a detailed overview of the innovations and challenges presented at InfoComm 2024, paving the way for the next generation of audiovisual technology.
If you would like to learn more about SM&W, please contact Marc Hochlerin, Senior Principal, Global Client Services & Development at mhochlerin@smwllc.com
Contributors:
- Mark Peterson, Principal, Global Lead of AV
- Randy Tritz, Partner, CTS-D
- Robert Fini, Principal, CTS-D
- Nicholas Sciannameo, Principal, CTS
- Daniel Wright, Principal, CTS
- John Harrop, Senior Associate, CTS-D
- Scott Kelly, Senior Associate, CTS
- Jonathan Owens, Senior Associate CTS-D
- Lucas Garber, Associate, CTS-D
- Andrew Goodsell, Associate
- Lee Petrenka, Consultant, CTS-D