Today, surveillance cameras are much more than just systems for capturing images. Thanks to recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI), they are increasingly capable of analysing, interpreting and evaluating image content. They deliver accurate results in real time. Whether it’s object recognition, motion analysis or automated alarms: AI is fundamentally changing the possible applications of surveillance cameras. This guide highlights the technologies behind this change and the associated opportunities and challenges.
How AI is used in surveillance cameras
Technological basis: Machine learning (ML) and deep learning
Machine learning (ML) and deep learning form the basis for the use of AI in surveillance cameras. Deep learning is a specialised form of machine learning. It uses artificial neural networks modelled on the human brain. These networks consist of several layers that process information in an increasingly abstract manner, for example to analyse complex scenes or correctly classify new situations.
In the specific case of video surveillance, AI is used as follows: Algorithms are trained using large amounts of video data to automatically identify patterns, such as movements, objects or behaviours. This enables the algorithms to distinguish independently between everyday movements and conspicuous behaviour. Unlike in the past, surveillance cameras can now detect not only that something is moving, but also what exactly is moving and whether it poses a threat – and they can do so in real time.
While traditional surveillance systems are programmed according to fixed rules, AI-supported systems use algorithms that recognise different situations and make decisions independently. Whereas previously a human would have had to assess a situation or false alarms would have been triggered, AI-supported surveillance cameras can now make better assessments and avoid false alarms. A variety of new functions made possible by AI also help in this regard.
New features in AI surveillance cameras
Object recognition and classification
In object recognition, the camera analyses the objects in its field of view. In a second step, artificial intelligence analyses the exact location of the object in the image. This is only possible if the AI has been trained with many different sample objects beforehand.
Face recognition for access control
Artificial intelligence also plays an important role in facial recognition. As soon as a person enters the field of view of the surveillance camera, they are detected. This means that the person is scanned in three dimensions and compared with previously stored characteristics in just a few seconds. Based on this biometric measurement, the AI can distinguish between authorised and unauthorised persons.
Event-driven notifications
Rather than constantly monitoring everything, modern cameras respond specifically to defined events, such as someone entering a restricted area or unusual movements in a sensitive location. AI filters out irrelevant events, such as those involving animals, and only triggers a notification when a relevant event occurs.
Behaviour analysis and anomaly detection
In behaviour analysis, AI learns human behaviour patterns and how to recognise them. For example, it recognises how people move in specific situations, such as during a break-in. With the help of anomaly detection, AI can identify unusual behaviour and, if necessary, sound the ‘alarm’.
Smart Search and Auto Tracking
The Smart Search function enables you to search large amounts of data for specific objects, people or events. This enables you to swiftly locate pivotal scenes within lengthy video recordings, eliminating the need to manually scroll through the entire video. The Auto-Tracking function enables surveillance cameras to track objects independently as soon as they appear in the camera’s field of view.
From living rooms to factory floors
Smart protection for your home
The IMOU AOV PT outdoor surveillance camera ensures you feel completely safe at home. With 3K UHD resolution, 340° panning and 90° tilting, as well as night vision with a range of up to 25 metres, it provides crystal-clear images at any time of day. Thanks to Always-On Video (AOV) technology, it records continuously with minimal power consumption while automatically switching to full recording mode when events are detected. Supported by a powerful 10,000 mAh battery and an included solar panel, it offers virtually unlimited operating time, making it ideal for locations without a fixed power supply.A particular highlight is the integrated AI: the IMOU SENSE® in-house algorithm ensures high-precision, real-time person detection and reduces false alarms. It also enables automatic tracking of movements within the image. The camera also offers intelligent features such as two-way audio and an integrated siren. Thanks to 4G and Wi-Fi support, the connection remains stable even during network outages.
For companies
The MIL C8266-X4GOPC makes it easy and convenient to monitor areas such as company premises or factory halls. This 5G AI camera enables fast data transmission and uses artificial intelligence to analyse and process data. It can also communicate with other devices. High-resolution 4K images enable precise, detailed monitoring.This surveillance camera is ideal for business use, is highly robust and delivers 100% peak performance even under extreme environmental conditions, such as extreme heat or cold. Furthermore, no Wi-Fi or LAN connection is required as the camera uses mobile communications up to 5G or PoE/DC 12V for power transmission.
Why can SMEs benefit in particular
Small and medium-sized enterprises can benefit from AI cameras because they have many applications. Logistics, retail and production are just a few examples of these areas. AI surveillance cameras provide companies with round-the-clock security and real-time monitoring. This new technology not only increases efficiency, but also saves costs. Furthermore, AI surveillance cameras help secure evidence in the event of a criminal offence.
Those without their own security service or IT security specialists, such as small and medium-sized enterprises, can benefit particularly from AI cameras. AI-supported surveillance cameras can distinguish between relevant and irrelevant events. By avoiding false alarms caused by shadows, animals or the weather, they reduce the workload for security personnel. Such systems enable professional surveillance around the clock without high costs or personnel expenses, which is especially beneficial for companies with limited human resources.
This must be taken into account
The use of AI-supported surveillance cameras is subject to strict legal requirements, particularly those set out in the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Personal data, such as facial images or movement profiles, can only be collected, stored and processed if certain conditions are met. Companies must ensure proportionality, purpose limitation and transparency. This means, among other things, clearly labelling surveillance areas, having a legitimate interest in recording and complying with storage periods.
Additionally, the planned EU AI Act regulates AI systems according to their risk level. Surveillance systems involving biometric recognition or behavioural analysis could be classified as ‘high risk’ and would therefore be subject to stricter transparency, traceability and technical security requirements. Accurate logging of all processes is also required.
In addition to legal aspects, there are also technical factors that must be taken into account. For example, many systems require stable and powerful networks, particularly for real-time image processing or transferring large amounts of data to the cloud. Poor lighting conditions, such as backlighting or night shots, can also affect the accuracy of AI, particularly with regard to facial recognition and object classification.
Another technical consideration is the false alarm rate. Although AI systems filter out many irrelevant events, false alarms can still occur repeatedly in practice, for example due to animals, shadows or weather conditions. Careful calibration of the systems is therefore crucial to increase security and avoid unnecessary interruptions.
Scalable and future-proof
AI-supported surveillance technology is no longer the exclusive domain of large companies. Small and medium-sized businesses, as well as private individuals, can now also reap the benefits of intelligent video systems, such as increased security, automated processes and more efficient evaluation of image material. Thanks to advanced features such as object recognition and smart alerts, many time-consuming and resource-intensive tasks can now be automated. When used sensibly and in compliance with legal frameworks such as the GDPR, AI-based surveillance can create real added value, regardless of company size.
Images: Adobe Stock
