Futuresource highlights convergence, immersive experiences and LED growth ahead of ISE

Futuresource Consulting has shared new insights into the evolving professional AV landscape, highlighting how convergence, immersive experiences and display innovation are reshaping market dynamics ahead of Integrated Systems Europe. The findings were discussed during a recent Spotlight session as part of the Futuresource Future Sessions series. 

Drawing on analysis across professional audio, displays and unified communications, the session explored how ISE continues to mirror the industry’s shift away from standalone technologies towards integrated, networked solutions spanning multiple verticals. 

Immersive experiences and live sound momentum 

Post-pandemic recovery has been strongest at the premium end of live sound and entertainment. Futuresource analysis shows that high-value, immersive experiences are driving investment in advanced loudspeaker systems, higher channel-count mixing consoles and immersive audio software platforms. As audiences return to in-person events, expectations for production quality and experience continue to rise. 

This focus on immersion is also influencing broader experiential environments, reinforcing the role of professional AV in brand engagement and destination-led experiences. 

Networked AV and system complexity 

Networking and software-defined architectures are now central to AV system design. From broadcast to installed environments, audio and video platforms are increasingly built around IP connectivity, remote management and interoperability with enterprise IT systems. 

While this enables greater flexibility and scalability, it also introduces challenges around system ownership, cybersecurity and skills requirements. Futuresource highlights that partnerships and ecosystem collaboration are becoming critical as solution complexity increases. 

Displays remain central as LED accelerates 

Displays continue to represent the largest share of Pro AV spend, with Futuresource tracking indicating that LED is the strongest growth segment within the category. Manufacturing innovations such as chip-on-board are accelerating cost reductions and expanding LED adoption across new applications. 

At the same time, traditional display categories face commoditisation, prompting vendors to focus on vertical-specific solutions, software integration and lifecycle value—particularly in education and enterprise markets with constrained budgets. 

Session speakers and availability 

The Spotlight session featured insights from Chris McIntyre Brown, Managing Director at Futuresource Consulting, alongside Paul, Lead Analyst, Professional Audio; Jeremy, Principal Analyst, Professional Displays; and Morris, Head of Pro Displays. The session forms part of Futuresource’s ongoing thought-leadership coverage supporting the global professional AV industry ahead of ISE. 

To download this latest Future Session visit here.