Sony launches AI-based solution for education

Sony Australia has launched what it says is a unique remote learning solution. Comprising the MAS-A100 beamforming microphone, an edge analytics appliance, cameras, projectors and displays, the company says the system delivers simple installation of a customised solution and ease of use for any educational facility.

Once installed there are few touchpoints and little or no requirement for dedicated AV staff — major advantages given the current COVID-19 restrictions.

A key component is the MAS-A100 beamforming microphone, delivering an audio solution that enables flexible and creative hands-free lectures and presentations. The ceiling-mount microphone offers advanced audio quality features for both speech reinforcement and recording with a combination of beamforming technology and an Intelligent Feedback Reducer function. The microphone has a dual-channel output for simultaneous recording of a wide area to capture both the speaker and students’ voices.

The AI-based edge analytics solution forms the hub of the system, allowing users to create video content in real time without the need for professional training, additional staff or equipment. The REAC1000 uses artificial intelligence-based video analytics technology to process input received from connected cameras and automatically extract the object in focus to combine it with other images in real time. This technology, using motion and face detection along with colour and shape recognition, makes edge analytics the powerful brain of any connected camera and AV set-up.

A range of projectors, cameras and displays round out the offering.

The flexibility of the system caters to a range of scenarios, including in-class and remote learning modes, offering a teaching solution that can be created and operated across multiple environments.

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