News & Trends

How do you decide among dozens of stories coming out of ISE and across the industry the entire month, and select just eight for the February recap? You don’t – you expand the list. With major product launches, industry leadership changes, new market forecasts, and a packed global events calendar, February delivered more news than a traditional roundup could reasonably contain.

From record attendance in Barcelona to evolving display technologies, strategic business shifts, and growing industry collaboration, this month’s stories highlight a professional AV sector that continues to expand in scope, influence, and ambition.

1. ISE 2026 Sets Attendance Record as Global AV Industry Momentum Builds

Integrated Systems Europe 2026 attracted 92,170 attendees and 1,751 exhibitors, marking the highest attendance and largest exhibition footprint in the event’s history. Organizers said the expanded show floor and growing international participation reflect continued industry growth across professional AV, systems integration, and experiential technology sectors.

2. Panasonic Expands MEVIX Visual Solutions Portfolio at ISE 2026

Panasonic Projector & Display Americas introduced new additions to its MEVIX lineup at ISE 2026, including a 4K RGB laser projector and expanded display offerings aimed at immersive venues, simulation environments, and public-sector applications. The updates highlight continued development of high-color-gamut projection and large-format display technologies as demand grows for more realistic visual experiences across professional AV deployments.

3. Clive Couldwell to Step Down as AV Magazine Group Editor

Clive Couldwell will step down as group editor of AV Magazine and Electronics Weekly after 15 years leading the titles, with his departure scheduled for March 30. Caroline Hayes, current editor of Electronics Weekly, will assume the group editor role following his exit. His presence and insights will be missed. 

4. Sustainability in AV: Takeaways from the AVIXA Advisory Group at ISE

The AVIXA Sustainability Advisory Group emphasized practical, real‑world steps for helping pro AV organizations turn sustainability ambitions into actionable strategies. Panelists highlighted the importance of listening to stakeholders, measuring impact, and fostering cross‑sector collaboration to embed long‑term sustainable practices throughout the AV ecosystem. 

5. MicroLED Display Revenue Expected to Double in 2026

Global MicroLED display revenue is projected to grow from $52.4 million in 2025 to $105.4 million in 2026, according to new analysis from Omdia. Early growth is being driven by specialized applications, including public displays, ultra-large screens, and near-eye wearable devices as manufacturing capabilities gradually mature and commercialization expands.

6. InfoComm 2026 Registration Opens With Reimagined Show Experience

Registration has opened for InfoComm 2026, returning to the Las Vegas Convention Center June 13–19, with organizers highlighting a redesigned show floor, new activation hubs, and expanded education programming. AVIXA show director Jenn Heinold said the event will place greater emphasis on real-world applications and experiential technology as AV continues to converge with IT, broadcast, and AI-driven solutions.

7. Christie to Sell Broadcast and Professional Video Business

Christie Digital Systems has agreed to sell its Broadcast and Professional Video division to the newly formed Vista PHX Corp., returning key video processing platforms – including Spyder, Terra, Phoenix, and Mastering Gateway – to leadership aligned with their original development teams. The divestiture reflects Christie’s strategic shift toward core display and projection priorities while allowing the video processing portfolio to operate under more specialized ownership.

8. ISE Launches Foundation to Extend Industry Impact Beyond Annual Show

Integrated Systems Europe has launched the ISE Foundation, an industry-led initiative designed to support year-round programs focused on workforce development, startup support, and community engagement. Created with AVIXA and CEDIA alongside local partners in Barcelona, the foundation aims to address talent shortages while expanding the AV industry’s long-term economic and social impact beyond the annual exhibition. 

9. Samsung Introduces AI-Enabled WAFX-P Interactive Display

Samsung has launched the WAFX-P Interactive Display, featuring built-in AI collaboration tools, a 4K camera, and microphones and speakers to support hybrid learning and workplace meetings. Powered by Android 15, the display adds features such as AI Summary, Live Transcript, and on-screen search, reflecting the growing adoption of AI-assisted workflows in education and enterprise collaboration.  

10. Daktronics Enhances Phillies Spring Training Ballpark With New LED Displays

Daktronics has installed a new outfield video board and ribbon display at BayCare Ballpark, the Philadelphia Phillies’ spring training home in Clearwater, Florida, debuting ahead of the 2026 Grapefruit League season. The 42-by-75.5-foot LED display features 10mm pixel spacing, HDR capability, and a custom Show Control system designed to support live video, statistics, sponsorship content, and in-game entertainment.  

11. DSF Kicks Off 2026 With Sold-Out Austin Event and Expanded Agenda

The Digital Signage Federation opened its 2026 calendar with a sold-out Mix & Mingle gathering in Austin, bringing together hardware, software, integration, and end-user leaders for networking and strategic sessions. Discussions at the first board meeting of the year covered membership growth, educational modernization, and a new awards program, with additional regional events planned for Washington, D.C., and the Bay Area later in 2026.

AV Video of the Month: ISE 2026 Recap: The Coolest Tech and Trends from the Show Floor 

Conclusion

February’s headlines reflect an industry balancing momentum with transition. Major trade shows continue to grow, new technologies such as MicroLED and AI-enabled collaboration tools are moving closer to mainstream deployment, and organizations across the ecosystem are investing in workforce development, partnerships, and long-term strategy.

If ISE demonstrated anything this year, it is that professional AV is no longer defined by individual products alone, but by connected experiences spanning venues, workplaces, education, and public environments. As the industry now turns toward the months ahead, the pace of innovation and collaboration shows little sign of slowing.

Main image photo: Getty Images/Jacob Wackerhausen