AV Trends to Watch in 2027
Smarter & More Flexible Meeting Spaces
The way we work is changing, and so are the spaces and technologies that support it. As hybrid work becomes a permanent part of the modern workplace, meeting rooms are evolving from simple spaces with a screen and camera into integrated environments designed around collaboration, flexibility, and user experience. Looking towards 2027, several trends are becoming increasingly important.
From meeting room technology to meeting experiences
The next generation of meeting rooms will be less about individual devices and more about how everything works together. Cameras, microphones, displays, control systems and collaboration platforms are increasingly becoming part of one seamless experience.
AI-powered features can automatically frame participants, follow the active speaker and help create a more natural experience for people joining remotely. The goal is quite simple: make hybrid meetings feel less hybrid. This also means reducing friction. One-touch meeting access, platform-neutral solutions and cleaner installations can make technology easier to use, while also reducing the need for users to troubleshoot cables and connections before a meeting.
Explore Hybrid SolutionsAI is changing the way meetings work
AI is becoming an increasingly important part of AV and unified communications. Intelligent cameras can identify and frame speakers, while advanced audio systems can focus on the person speaking and reduce unwanted background noise. But the real value isn't the AI itself. It's what it enables. When technology can handle more of the technical details automatically, participants can focus more on the conversation, presentation, or decision at hand.
Explore AV AccessoriesBigger, brighter and more flexible displays
Another major development is the growing role of Direct View LED, particularly in larger meeting spaces and high-impact environments. Unlike traditional displays, LED solutions are built from modules, making it possible to create large, seamless surfaces in different formats.
This opens up new possibilities for presentation, collaboration, and digital content. The traditional 16:9 display is no longer the only option. Wider formats can support new meeting experiences, while fine pixel pitches make large LED surfaces suitable even when participants are sitting relatively close to the screen.
And because LED can provide high brightness and contrast, it can be particularly effective in modern environments with large windows and plenty of natural light.
Explore LEDWhat does this mean for AV solutions?
As these trends develop, flexibility will become increasingly important. Fixed single-purpose installations can work well for specific applications. But when spaces and requirements change, modular and adaptable solutions provide more options.
• Mobile solutions can make it possible to move technology between your different spaces.
• Modular solutions can make it easier to adapt configurations as requirements evolve.
And well-designed casings and integration solutions can help technology become a natural part of the surrounding environment, rather than something that stands apart from it.
What's next from SMS?
At SMS, we're constantly looking at how AV technology and the way we use spaces are evolving. And we're currently working on solutions that bring these trends closer together. Expect more flexibility for hybrid collaboration. More possibilities for digital signage. And solutions designed to integrate technology into the spaces around us.
We can't reveal everything just yet. But one thing is clear: The next generation of AV isn't just about what technology can do. It's about how seamlessly it can adapt to the way we work, communicate, and interact. Stay tuned!
