2024 is set to be an eventful year in AV and promises to bring several new and improved technologies that are aimed at revolutionising human interactions in a sustainable way.
The audiovisual (AV) industry in India is undergoing a transformative phase, with 2024 marking a pivotal year for innovation and growth. Let’s explore the key trends shaping the AV industry in India, highlighting the drivers of change and the challenges that need to be addressed.
Immersive Experiences with Extended Reality (XR)
Immersive experiences brought by Extended Reality (XR) have seen a significant rise in popularity in India. These technologies go beyond traditional screens and offer interactive and engaging experiences with the help of Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) and Mixed Reality (MR), revolutionising the way content is consumed. In India, the entertainment and education sectors are rapidly adopting XR to create captivating experiences for users.
Advanced Collaboration Tools
Rapid advancements in virtual meeting tools have greatly improved corporate communications and teamwork in the past few years. There has been a surge in sophisticated AV Solutions that seamlessly integrate into collaboration platforms and are equipped with features like real-time language translation and transcription, HD video conferencing with minimal latency and deep integration with business applications. Bolstered by this unified workflow, teams can access various resources within the collaboration environment in one place. This fosters a more connected and efficient workspace driving several Indian companies to invest in these technologies and facilitate seamless collaboration among geographically dispersed teams.
AI-Driven Personalisation
Led by a recent surge in intelligent automation solutions, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has played a key role in personalising AV experiences. With the ability to analyse user preferences and behaviour to deliver customised content and build routines, it has taken user engagement to the next level. In India, AI-driven personalisation is expected to become a standard feature in AV solutions, particularly in the retail and advertising sectors. It is being leveraged for targeted advertising, content curation and even educational platforms for adaptive learning. This trend is expected to grow as AI becomes more sophisticated, offering unprecedented levels of customisation.
Sustainable AV Technologies
Sustainability is becoming a central theme in the AV industry. Eco-friendly practices and materials are being incorporated into products and there is a push towards energy-efficient solutions. Indian AV companies are focusing on developing sustainable technologies that minimise environmental impact while delivering high performance. Indian companies are adopting green AV solutions like LED lighting, solar-powered stages and biodegradable materials. These sustainable practices not only reduce the environmental impact but also align with the global shift towards more responsible consumption patterns.
Enhanced Cyber Security in AV Solutions
As AV systems become more connected, cybersecurity is a growing concern. The Indian AV industry is emphasising the importance of secure AV solutions to protect against data breaches and cyber threats. Enhanced security measures are being implemented to ensure the safety and privacy of users. In practice, enhanced cybersecurity in AV solutions involves a multi-layered approach to protect systems and data. In India, AV solutions in 2024 are incorporating advanced encryption standards, real-time threat detection and automated incident response systems. Companies like Bitdefender and CISCO are offering enterprise-grade security solutions that include endpoint protection and cloud-based threat intelligence. These solutions are designed to identify vulnerabilities, prevent unauthorised access and safeguard sensitive AV data against cyber threats.
5G and Beyond
The rollout of 5G networks is set to revolutionise the AV industry by enabling faster and more reliable connectivity. This will facilitate the streaming of high-definition content and support the bandwidth requirements of advanced AV applications. India’s progress in 5G deployment will significantly influence the capabilities of AV solutions. By 2024, 5G penetration in India is anticipated to have reached over 11%, with the number of 5G subscriptions forecasted to grow to 860 million by 2029*. This rapid adoption is driven by 5G’s ability to support high-definition content streaming and low-latency communication, essential for advanced AV applications. The manufacturing sector is projected to see the most significant impact from 5G, contributing to an additional $150 billion in GDP for India**.
Cloud-Based AV Services
Cloud-based services are transforming the AV industry by offering scalable and flexible solutions. Users can access AV content and services on-demand without the need for physical hardware. In India, cloud-based AV services are gaining popularity due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of use. In 2024, companies are utilising networked AV products that convert, serve, stream, transmit and control AV content over the network. Top cloud services providers like AWS, Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud Platform are offering scalable features and advanced technologies such as AI and machine learning to provide innovative solutions for businesses. These services facilitate real-time updates and high-quality video delivery, making it easier for businesses to manage their AV needs dynamically and cost-effectively.
Looking Into the AV Crystal Ball
The future of the AV industry in India is poised for unprecedented growth, driven by technological innovation and digital transformation. However, the industry must remain vigilant against rapid obsolescence, cybersecurity threats and the need for constant upskilling to keep pace with evolving technologies. It must also navigate regulatory changes and address the digital divide to ensure equitable access. By staying ahead of these challenges, the AV industry in India can harness its full potential, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic and cultural landscape.