2N has added new functionality to its devices by upgrading its OS. The improvements the upgrade delivers are designed to support flexible working and ensure that 2N’s devices can be used by the hard of hearing.
CBRE’s EMEA Occupier Survey 2022, published in May, concluded that only 6% of companies are currently requiring employees to return to the office on a full-time basis, with 72% saying that they are moving towards a ‘hybrid workplace’ model. Over 60% of companies are looking to increase the provision of mixed, shared or mobile work settings, with nearly 80% planning to downscale dedicated assigned seating. This change has led more and more companies to re-consider the viability of a ‘traditional’ receptionist, a person sitting on the front desk for the full working day to oversee access into the building.
In response, the new 2N OS enables bidirectional video through the 2N IP Style intercom. This allows visitors to see the person they are talking to as well as vice versa, which is of particular value for buildings which decide to go without a dedicated reception. Bidirectional video is also a response to the growing demand for inclusivity in device functionality, as it allows the hard of hearing to communicate using sign language.
The upgrade has security advantages as well, in two ways:
First, ONVIF settings have had a total rework, with 2N intercoms now supporting T as well as S profiles. The S profile already supported basic video streaming; the T profile enables advanced video streaming. This opens up a range of new possibilities, including motion detection and tamper alarms, as well as the support of bi-directional audio. The new 2N OS thus broadens the integration options with third party security devices.
Second, the 2N OS upgrade improves the quality of images sent to the 7″ touchscreen 2N Indoor View answering units. The upgrade also allows users to zoom in on the answering unit so that they can see the caller’s face, name tag or ID more clearly by pinching two fingers, just like they would on their phone. Furthermore, for the first time, the upgrade allows visitors to leave a videomail on the 2N Indoor View when the resident is not at home.
