Surveillance technology continues to evolve at a pace, reshaping how organisations monitor, detect, and respond to events. This year’s finalists in the Benchmark Innovation Awards’ Surveillance CCTV category showcase significant steps forward in imaging performance, operational efficiency, and proactive threat detection. From AI-powered analysis and colour-rich low-light imaging to modular design and rapid deployment, each contender offers a unique take on modern surveillance challenges. Here’s a closer look at the ten finalists in this dynamic category.
Ajax Systems – DomeCam Mini
Ajax Systems’ DomeCam Mini is a compact addition to the company’s growing ecosystem, designed to deliver smart functionality within a sleek, discreet form factor. Built to work seamlessly with Ajax’s security system, this dome camera includes person and vehicle detection, edge-based analytics, and wide dynamic range to tackle difficult lighting conditions. Its unobtrusive design suits residential and commercial settings, while installation remains straightforward. Ajax has prioritised efficiency and usability, making this camera a strong fit for environments that value both performance and aesthetic integration.
Cursor Insight – Walking Recognition
Cursor Insight brings a distinctive approach to identification with its Walking Recognition technology. By focusing on how people move, rather than relying solely on facial or clothing data, the system introduces gait analysis into surveillance workflows. This can be especially effective in scenarios where individuals are partially obscured or intentionally avoiding identification. It’s a non-intrusive method that adds depth to tracking and behavioural insights, offering value for complex sites such as transport hubs, events, or secure facilities.
Hanwha Vision Europe – AI Box AIB-800
Hanwha’s AI Box AIB-800 is a clever solution for upgrading legacy systems. It allows users to bring AI-powered analytics to existing cameras by processing video streams through this external box. Compatible with a wide range of ONVIF-supported models, the unit offers object classification, line-crossing detection, and heat mapping without requiring full camera replacement. This not only extends the life of older installations but also introduces new intelligence capabilities in a cost-effective and scalable way.
Hikvision UK Ltd – ColorVu 3.0
Hikvision’s latest evolution of its ColorVu range pushes night-time imaging into new territory. Version 3.0 improves clarity in near-darkness using updated sensors and refined image processing, ensuring that colours remain accurate even in low-light settings. This allows for more meaningful video footage at all hours, helping operators quickly identify clothing, vehicles, or other visual cues. Enhancements to dynamic range and motion clarity make the cameras more capable in scenes with uneven lighting or fast-moving subjects, further enhancing situational awareness.
IDIS Europe – 8MP AI Bullets & Domes
IDIS has introduced a line of 8MP cameras that blend high-resolution imaging with embedded AI. These bullet and dome models are equipped to distinguish between different objects and reduce nuisance alerts by filtering out irrelevant movement. This helps security teams focus their attention more effectively. Built to withstand tough conditions, the cameras also include failover storage, ensuring footage is retained even if network connectivity is interrupted. Together, the features contribute to a robust and intelligent surveillance toolset.
i-PRO – AI-enabled High-Zoom Bullet Camera (incl. LPR)
Designed for long-range surveillance, i-PRO’s high-zoom bullet camera is tailored for critical infrastructure, transportation, and perimeter security. With optical zoom capabilities up to 30x, combined with onboard AI, it enables detailed observation across wide areas. The inclusion of license plate recognition further extends its application for vehicle monitoring. Long-distance infrared illumination and image stabilisation round out a system that’s built to deliver consistent results, even in challenging outdoor environments or from great distances.
Raytec Limited – Vario IPPoE 16
Raytec’s Vario IPPoE 16 demonstrates that lighting remains a vital part of effective surveillance. This powerful illuminator is designed to support both infrared and white-light options, providing tailored illumination over long distances. It’s network-controllable and draws power via PoE, making it flexible to deploy. Installers can adapt the beam angle for different scenes, and its responsiveness to external triggers allows it to become part of an intelligent deterrent strategy—lighting up when motion is detected, for instance. In dark or expansive environments, it ensures cameras have the light they need to operate at their best.
Synectics – Synergy Detect
Synectics’ Synergy Detect integrates adaptive AI analytics directly into the company’s security management platform. It offers users a suite of detection tools that can be activated depending on the operational context—ranging from safety compliance checks to behaviour tracking. What sets it apart is the flexibility to configure it for diverse sectors such as transport, manufacturing, or public spaces. Users can tailor alerts and responses, enabling a more proactive approach to incident detection without overwhelming operators with false alarms.
Vicon Industries Ltd – NEXT
Vicon’s NEXT camera system stands out for its modular design, allowing components to be swapped or upgraded with ease. This makes installation quicker and maintenance more manageable, particularly on large-scale projects. It also integrates a wide range of features into a single device, including full-colour imaging around the clock, AI-based object detection, and built-in two-way audio. Visual indicators on the unit can signal alerts or system status, creating an interactive element in real-world deployments. NEXT feels like a move towards the next generation of smart surveillance, where flexibility and functionality are front and centre.
Webeye Limited – Vigileyez
Vigileyez from Webeye is a fully wireless, battery-powered video alarm system aimed at temporary or remote sites. Designed for ease of deployment, the system uses dual-technology sensing to verify alarms and reduce false positives. It operates entirely off-grid and communicates over 4G, making it ideal for construction areas, vacant properties, or events where fixed infrastructure isn’t practical. By combining portability with real-time video verification, Vigileyez delivers a reliable layer of protection where traditional systems might struggle to reach.