Hanwha Vision adds Similarity Search to Milestone XProtect plug-in

The update enables end users to unlock the full potential of the AI analytics built into Hanwha Vision’s cameras, including the ability to quickly locate visually similar people or vehicles across large volumes of recorded video, thereby dramatically reducing investigation times.

Milestone XProtect is open platform video management software that enables organisations to combine cameras from multiple manufacturers within a single system. In order to unlock the full value of an open platform, end users need seamless access to the advanced AI capabilities built into their cameras.

The plug-in brings the AI analytics built into Hanwha Vision cameras directly into the Milestone XProtect interface, allowing end users to search for people and vehicles, control cameras and access advanced AI capabilities, all within their existing video management platform and, importantly, without requiring an additional system.

Search AI results directly

From the monitoring interface they already use, operators can search footage using attributes such as person, face, vehicle and license plate. Additional AI searches for retail, industrial safety and other application-specific use cases are also supported alongside barcode search.

Road AI and Vehicle Management enable searches using vehicle attributes including make, model, colour and country of registration. Each search result includes a ‘Best Shot’ (ie the most representative image of the detected subject), allowing operators to quickly identify the correct person or vehicle at a glance.

The plug-in goes beyond search, enabling operators to control cameras directly from the monitoring screen. Standard camera controls, along with PTZ and thermal camera functions, can all be accessed within the XProtect.

The latest version also adds support for IP audio and intercom integration, allowing operators to communicate with individuals on-site and respond immediately to incidents. From reviewing video to taking action, the entire workflow remains within a single interface.

Monitor analytics live

AI object bounding boxes, intelligent video analytics events and virtual lines can be overlaid on the live video stream in real-time, affording operators immediate visual confirmation of activity within configured detection zones.

As stated, this latest version introduces Similarity Search, which enables operators to locate visually similar people or vehicles across large volumes of recorded video from a selected subject. Available on cameras powered by the Wisenet 9 chipset, the feature significantly accelerates investigations by helping users to find relevant footage in seconds.

Thomas Bille, vice-president for product and partner marketing at Milestone Systems, stated: “Many of our customers already run XProtect alongside Hanwha Vision’s AI cameras. This plug-in brings camera analytics directly into the systems upon which they already rely, in turn making advanced investigation faster without adding hardware. It’s a strong example of how an open platform allows partners like Hanwha Vision to bring innovation to market and turn it into practical value for everyday operations.”

John Lutz Boorman, head of product and marketing for Hanwha Vision Europe, explained: “This update strengthens the integration between Hanwha Vision’s AI-powered cameras and Milestone’s XProtect. It enables customers to take full advantage of advanced AI analytics, including the new Similarity Search feature, helping them to respond faster and improve operational efficiency all from a single interface.”

*Further information is available online at www.hanwhavision.eu