The Future of Pro AV: AI, Flexible Displays, and Spatial Computing Transform the Industry
It goes without saying that AI is the biggest trend to watch in the Pro AV industry for 2025. I think we’ll see a rise of AI-powered content management systems to help manage and deliver content in smarter, more personalized ways. Imagine walking into a store and seeing a digital sign that shows products tailored to your interests based on who’s shopping that day. Or think about corporate meeting rooms where screens automatically update with relevant information based on the team using them. For AV installers and managers, AI can monitor equipment, predict when something might break, and send alerts to fix it before there’s a problem. It also helps set up systems faster by automating some of the more complicated programming tasks.
Another major trend will be the adoption of ultra-thin, flexible display technologies. These displays, often made with advancements like OLED or MicroLED materials. Unlike traditional rigid screens, these flexible displays can bend, curve, or wrap around surfaces, opening up entirely new design possibilities. For example, imagine a dvLED video wall that seamlessly follows the curve of an architectural column in a space. These displays enable more creative and immersive visual experiences, making them a hit for high-end installations and experiential marketing.
We’ve heard and experienced spatial audio, but what about spatial computing? This combines augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and artificial intelligence (AI) to create immersive, dynamic AV solutions. This technology enables displays and systems to interact seamlessly with the physical environment, enhancing user engagement and creating entirely new AV experiences.
Imagine walking into a clothing store where spatial computing enhances your shopping journey. Here’s how a r4eal-world application might work:
- Virtual Try-On: Using augmented reality (AR), you can see how a dress, pair of glasses, or even makeup products will look on you without physically trying them on. Smart mirrors equipped with spatial computing capabilities can project the selected items onto your body in real time.
- Personalized Navigation: As you move through the store, an AR app or smart glasses can guide you to specific items you’re looking for, showing promotions or suggesting complementary products based on your preferences.
- Interactive Product Displays: Products on shelves can be paired with AR experiences. For instance, pointing your smartphone or smart glasses at a shoe could reveal information about its materials, style suggestions, or user reviews.
- Seamless Checkout: Spatial computing integrates with computer vision to enable cashier-less checkout. You simply pick up the items you want, and the system tracks your selections and automatically charges your account when you leave.
The Pro AV industry is on the brink of an exciting transformation, with AI, flexible display technologies, and spatial computing leading the charge. These innovations promise smarter content delivery, more immersive visuals, and dynamic user experiences that were once the realm of science fiction. Whether it’s personalized retail journeys, corporate environments optimized by AI, or flexible displays redefining design possibilities, the future of Pro AV is all about pushing boundaries. As these trends take shape in 2025, the industry will not only evolve but set new standards for creativity, efficiency, and interactivity. Are you ready to be part of this AV revolution?
