The Bosch start-up Security and Safety Things (SAST) announced its vision for a revolutionary IoT platform in the security camera segment. SAST is currently building a global ecosystem for the development of security camera applications. Although the open and secure IoT platform is initially for the security camera industry, the platform will be extended to support additional IoT domains in the future. The platform is set to launch in mid-2019.

The founding of SAST, which aims to be the industry’s first open and standardized operating system and global marketplace for security camera applications, is in direct response to current innovative trends for IP security cameras. Increasing internet connectivity and computing power at the edge is fostering the rise of edge-based video analytics. Within this global market, SAST anticipates specialized software applications to emerge as a significant growth segment during the next five years.

A specific growth driver for these software applications are next-generation microprocessors, including so-called neuron chip sets. Benefits include high-value analytics applications, artificial intelligence unlocking new security camera functionality, e.g. facial recognition, and the possibility to install apps via updates or new app uploads, without changing the camera.

SAST plans to provide a B2B-software ecosystem within the security camera market. The SAST-related App Store will allow developers to build applications on an open software standard, and to market them via the SAST App Store, similar to today’s app stores for smartphone applications.

Focus applications include:

• Building security. Vertical specific applications for airports (e.g. face recognition, perimeter control) and retail (e.g. queue management, flow analysis) based on artificial intelligence.
• Applications beyond security. This includes applications such as business intelligence and lifecycle monitoring (e.g. predictive maintenance and condition monitoring).

“SAST introduces a new standard for the development of innovative business applications in the security and safety segment. SAST is creating a free operating system and a secure and scalable global marketplace to deploy and manage software solutions. SAST is closely cooperating with the recently announced Open Security and Safety Alliance to ensure an innovative and compatible platform for its members,” said Hartmut Schaper, CEO of SAST.

SAST will implement strict quality guidelines and security checks for new apps, as well as a stringent approval process. As a further commitment to innovation, SAST plans to hire additional employees during the first half of 2019, with a high focus on software developers and IT skills.

The organization is set up as a wholly owned subsidiary of Robert Bosch GmbH and is part of the group’s strategic move into new, digital growth areas. Going forward, SAST plans to onboard additional investors to further open up to external stakeholders, and to accelerate the success of its ecosystem.

For more information, visit www.sast.io.