MONTREAL – On November 24, 2025, Genetec Inc., a global leader in enterprise physical security software, unveiled its authoritative forecast for the pivotal trends that will define the physical security industry in 2026.
The New Era of Cloud Adoption: Choice and Flexibility
The corporate approach to cloud technology is set to mature significantly in the coming year. Instead of a one-size-fits-all migration, organizations will prioritize deployment flexibility and scalability. Enterprises are expected to meticulously assess each workload based on critical factors like performance, cost, and data residency requirements. This strategic evaluation will lead them to choose the optimal environment for their specific needs, whether it is an on-premises solution, a full cloud deployment, or a versatile hybrid model.
This shift is powered by the growing demand for open architecture solutions. Such systems grant end-users the freedom to select the best devices and applications for their operations, thereby extending the lifespan of existing infrastructure. Vendors that can provide a full spectrum of deployment options and ensure strong interoperability will be best positioned to succeed, moving away from the restrictive nature of proprietary systems.
Intelligent Automation: Moving Beyond the AI Hype
In 2026, the industry conversation will pivot from theoretical artificial intelligence (AI) hype to practical, outcome-driven Intelligent Automation (IA). The focus will be on solutions that deliver tangible benefits by streamlining workflows, enhancing monitoring precision, and enabling faster, more informed decision-making.
Key applications will include intelligent search to accelerate investigations, a significant reduction in false alarms, and improved situational awareness for security operators. By automating repetitive tasks, IA allows human personnel to concentrate on critical decision-making that requires judgment and expertise. Furthermore, the market will demand greater transparency and responsible implementation, with users expecting clear explanations of how AI is used and how data is protected within these systems.
Accelerating Modernization of Access Control
Modernizing legacy access control systems will remain a top priority for organizations seeking a stronger return on investment. The value proposition of access control is expanding far beyond its traditional role. Companies are now leveraging it to achieve broader business outcomes, including energy efficiency, occupancy management, and valuable operational insights.
The adoption of Access Control as a Service (ACaaS) is predicted to accelerate, driven by the desire for easier maintenance, greater scalability, and predictable operating expenses. A popular approach will be hybrid deployments that blend on-premises reliability with cloud capabilities. The trend towards unifying ACaaS with Video Surveillance as a Service (VSaaS) will also gain momentum, offering organizations enhanced visibility and streamlined management across all their sites.
