Asmag had an opportunity to speak with Gatling Chen, Director of R&D Center for the Hikvision Pan-Asia Business Center, at the recently concluded Hikvision Partner Summit at Hangzhou, China. The discussion delved into the potential of AIoT, possible challenges for adoption and how Hikvision is charting a clear path for smart AIoT solutions tailored for the unique requirements of diverse verticals.
AI-powered Internet of Things (AIoT) is reshaping industries worldwide, driving operational efficiencies and enabling intelligent transformations. Hikvision has positioned itself as a leading AIoT solution provider, leveraging its expertise to redefine how vertical businesses operate.
Asmag had an opportunity to speak with Gatling Chen, Director of R&D Center for the Hikvision Pan-Asia Business Center, at the recently concluded Hikvision Partner Summit at Hangzhou, China. The discussion delved into the potential of AIoT, possible challenges for adoption and how Hikvision is charting a clear path for smart AIoT solutions tailored for the unique requirements of diverse verticals.
The vision for AIoT
Hikvision’s approach to AIoT encompasses primary dimensions on production management and daily life enhancement. According to Chen, the end goal is to “shape a better world together,” deploying technologies that streamline operations and improve the quality of life. These solutions include advanced production tools, such as x-ray sensors and infrared devices, aimed at sectors like manufacturing and energy. At the same time, AIoT is transforming traffic management with smarter systems and enhanced safety protocols.
This strategy highlights Hikvision’s commitment to not only solving current challenges but also anticipating future needs across industries. As Chen emphasized, “We focus on scenario-based AIoT solutions tailored to the specific needs of industries, making it easier for end-users to adopt and benefit from our technology.” This approach ensures that Hikvision directly addresses end-user scenarios to identify pain points and then designs solutions that fit those needs.
AIoT adoption in Asia: opportunities and challenges
Asia presents both a fertile ground for AIoT innovations and a fiercely competitive marketplace. Chen identified two trends: the rapid relocation of manufacturing supply chains to Southeast Asia and the relatively high acceptance of digital transformation initiatives in the region. For instance, countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand are experiencing increased investments in industrial parks and factories, creating significant growth opportunities for AIoT solutions.
However, competition remains a significant challenge, with proximity to the Chinese mainland intensifying competition for AIoT market share. Furthermore, cultural nuances play a role in shaping technology adoption. “Asian markets are often early adopters of technology, but they approach innovation differently compared to Europe or the Americas,” Chen noted.
Impact across vertical markets
The transformative potential of AIoT is evident across multiple sectors. On the production side, operational technology (OT) solutions are being deployed to monitor critical infrastructure, such as conveyor belts in mining operations, ensuring seamless and safe operations by detecting overheating or blockages.
Manufacturing and energy sectors also stand to gain from Hikvision’s solutions. According to Chen, the
company’s use of integrated technologies like x-ray imaging, infrared and audio with AI analytics enables businesses to optimize efficiency while minimizing risks. “We’ve shifted our focus from just CCTV or integrated security systems to operational technologies that enhance productivity. We will have more opportunities and this aligns better with our vision for the future,” Chen explained.
Addressing adoption barriers
While the potential of AIoT is immense, its adoption is not without hurdles. Customers often express concerns about cost, compatibility with existing systems and the fragmented nature of certain markets. To bridge these gaps, Hikvision emphasizes collaboration with partners.
“We rely heavily on regional partners to customize and deliver localized solutions,” said Chen. “We work closely with our partners – the systems integrators or installers – to provide comprehensive service to our end users.” Furthermore, Hikvision’s Integrated Product Development (IPD) system ensures that customer feedback directly informs the R&D process, resulting in solutions that address real-world challenges.
In the world of AIoT, cybersecurity is important. “If a product does not meet our cybersecurity standards, it simply cannot be released,” Chen emphasized, sharing that Hikvision ensures that security is embedded from the design stage and adheres to stringent industry standards and global certifications.
A commitment beyond business
As the interview concluded, Chen also shared Hikvision’s broader mission. Beyond business success, the company is committed to meaningful contributions, particularly in environmental and social governance (ESG) projects. “Work is only work,” said Chen. “But life becomes fulfilling when we create solutions that help the environment, protect wildlife or contribute meaningfully to society.” This mindset reflects Hikvision’s vision of paving the way for the future where technology not only drives business outcomes but also creates a better world.