The $1.8 billion global door phone market is moving from audio to video, according to a new report from a market research company. Video is set to grow and account for half of shipments in 2017, according to IMS Research’s report, “The World Market for Audio and Video Door Phones”
Worldwide unit shipments of video door phones are forecast to grow by 7.5 percent during the next five years. Trends to aid the move from audio to video door phones include increased integration with building automation, a transition toward ‘hands off’ indoor units along with larger, seven-inch screen sizes, and an more use of networks and megapixel cameras.
Oliver Philippou, market analyst for video surveillance at HIS, parent company of IMS, said: “The transition from audio to video door phones is occurring in all regions around the world, and is being driven by many factors. Ultimately, this change is due to a reduction in the price of video door phones, and the consumer’s perception of increased security via better identification of those who are trying to gain access.”
But while these developments will generate interest, the highly price-sensitive nature of the business will ultimately mean that most products shipped will be entry-level devices. Meanwhile, the arrival of low-cost Chinese suppliers is intensifying competition in the market, and helping to promote the rise of video.
Philippou said: “The increased price competition—with some Chinese manufacturers able to produce audio door phone indoor units for as little as $3—has led to traditional branded suppliers moving away from the audio door phone market and pushing their video door phone products more aggressively in order to maximize profits. This has allowed low-priced, unbranded products to gain market share in the audio door phone market. However, it is not just audio door phones that are experiencing a price decline. Video door phones are also dropping in price, making them more accessible to wider markets.”
The recently published report, “The World Market for Audio and Video Door Phones – 2013 Edition,” forecasts the growth of analogue door equipment, network door phone equipment, and other relevant topics in greater detail for both audio-only door phones as well as video door phones. IHS also offers a region-focused look on audio and video door phones, in addition to analysis of the Chinese market. Visit www.ihs.com
Pictured: near Durham Cathedral.
