On the back of great advances in cloud computing and AI technology, a sea change is underway in the deployment of security systems across APAC and beyond. In Genetec’s view, the focus will shift increasingly toward unified systems that unlock vast, untapped potentials within and beyond security. That said, below we hear what Daniel Lee has to say about how those trends are playing out in real-life scenarios.
asmag: Looking at the security landscape for 2026, where do you see the most significant shift in how organizations are approaching investment priorities?
Daniel Lee: Expect to see more administrations, government agencies and private businesses amping up their investment in unified security solutions over the upcoming year.
We live in volatile and uncertain times; the need for robust physical security solutions is not in doubt. Intelligent, tightly integrated systems continue to play a critical role in protecting assets and, most importantly, keeping individuals safe, in public settings and private spaces alike.
asmag: How has the traditional approach to security infrastructure in the APAC region changed compared with the systems organizations relied on in the past?
Daniel Lee: Until recently, intermeshed security ecosystems were what many administrations and organisations across the Asia Pacific region did not have.
Rather, entities and enterprises were forced to rely on aging and disjointed layers of protection, managed on premises by sizeable teams.
That’s changing now, and fast. From Sapporo to Sydney and every place in between, we’re seeing a sea change in the way physical security solutions are deployed and valued. That’s leading to surging demand from decision makers, for unified systems that support stronger collaboration and smarter decision making.
asmag: Cloud adoption is another major talking point this year. What kind of momentum are you seeing for cloud-connected projects, specifically regarding AI integration?
Daniel Lee: 77 percent of APAC systems integrators are expecting to complete more cloud connected security projects over the upcoming 12 months.
By the end of 2026, it’s anticipated that more than two-thirds of organisations in the region will have some form of AI technology deployed in their physical security environments. By contrast, that figure sits at just 40 percent for the rest of the world.
The case for a cloud-focused technology uplift is a compelling one. Harnessing the power of the cloud can enable customers to expand their security capabilities, while containing their capital outlay and operating expenses.
asmag: What concrete benefits can organizations expect from switching to a cloud security solution? For many organizations, this is a big step, and they might fear a costly, complete overhaul of their system.
Daniel Lee: It’s game-changing technology that allows them to centrally monitor remote sites, reduce on-site maintenance, accelerate response times and expedite incident investigation.
Importantly, it makes it possible for organisations to transition in a staggered manner; extracting maximum value from aging but still useful infrastructure and arrays while adding enhanced capability in the form of new generation intrusion detection, access control and digital evidence management.
asmag: Beyond narrowly defined security applications, how can operators use data generated by unified systems to improve broader business outcomes?
Daniel Lee: Operators who are ahead of the curve will continue to identify new use cases for the wealth of data generated by their cloud-connected unified security solutions.
In addition to enabling them to implement more proactive and robust protections, up-to-the-minute insights will help businesses work more cohesively and effectively, achieving competitive advantages.
Car park and foot traffic data, for example, can be used to inform everything from rosters and rental agreements to marketing strategies that resonate with relevant demographics and segments.
asmag: With so much rapid evolution in the industry, what should decisionmakers prioritize when choosing a technology partner for their long-term security journey?
Daniel Lee: While the security landscape may be evolving rapidly, some things never change. That’s why this year will see businesses and entities across the region looking to partner with providers they can count on; stable vendors with stellar track records whose premium cloud connected offerings will provide them with comprehensive protection today and tomorrow. Having that support will remain key to the success of every security transformation journey in 2026 and beyond.