Smart Building Magazine asked Mike Blackman, managing director at ISE, what to expect at the 2025 show in Barcelona.

What’s new at ISE in 2025?

ISE 2025 promises to be the most dynamic and engaging edition yet, with a host of new initiatives and features. The show will be 20% larger than the previous year, with the addition of Hall 8.1 and new features such as Innovation Park, a Hackathon and new ways of learning with Track sessions and Day Passes. Attendees can expect an expanded content programme and more accessible content through the new North Access point. This year, the event will also place a significant emphasis on smart building technologies, making it a must-attend for professionals in the industry.

What are the main themes of the show in 2025?

The main Track themes of ISE 2025 include AI, Audio, Cybersecurity, Retail, and Sustainability. These themes will be explored through various sessions and tracks, offering deeper insights into the megatrends shaping the industry. For smart building enthusiasts, the focus on AI and sustainability will be particularly relevant, as these technologies are set to revolutionize the way we design and manage buildings.

From a smart buildings’ perspective, what will I see at the event?

At ISE 2025, you will see a range of smart building solutions including access control, energy management, building control, smart lighting & shading, public address, digital signage, wayfinding, unified communications, video security, cabling, audio-video entertainment, smart workplace, and Internet of Things. These technologies will be showcased in the Residential and Smart Building Zone (Hall 2) and other dedicated areas. This is an excellent opportunity to explore the latest innovations and network with industry leaders.

Is there a smart buildings conference this year and if so, who is speaking?

Yes, there is a Smart Building Summit at ISE 2025, where industry leaders and experts will gather to discuss the latest advancements in digital transformation, smart buildings, AI, and sustainability. This event is a unique opportunity to gain insights from top professionals and network with peers who are shaping the future of the built environment.

The summit will kick off with a warm welcome and introductions by Bob Snyder, Editor-in-Chief of Channel Media Europe. The keynote session will delve into the acceleration of digital transformation in the built environment, driven by sustainability initiatives, IoT, and AI.

Matthew Marson will share his expertise on leveraging data generated by smart buildings for actionable insights, emphasizing the importance of enterprise agility. Charles Anderson will explore how generative AI is enhancing human-machine collaboration to improve built environments.

Elisa Rönkä will discuss the benefits of cloud-based Building Software-as-a-Service (BaaS) in addressing digitalization challenges, while Michael Grant will provide valuable insights on maximizing the value of existing systems, software, and data in buildings.

Max Verteletsky and his panel will highlight the impact of AI on Spaceti's Space Management Platform, and other panellists will share best practices for digital integration and operational success in smart buildings. Ken Dooley will explain how effective data flow can simplify Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) reporting.

The summit will conclude with a session on practical AI applications in smart buildings, focusing on solving everyday problems.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the best in the industry and stay ahead of the curve in smart building technology. Register now to secure your spot at the Smart Building Summit!

Are there any new technologies on the horizon that will be featured at ISE?

ISE 2025 will feature new technologies such as AI-powered solutions, immersive experiences, and sustainable technologies. Attendees can expect to see major releases from leading brands and startups, as well as hands-on product demos in the seven Technology Zones. This is a great chance to get a first look at the innovations that will shape the future of smart buildings.

We place a significant emphasis on smart building technologies at ISE, making it a must-attend for professionals in the industry. Attendees can expect to see a range of smart building solutions including access control, energy management, building control, smart lighting & shading, public address, digital signage, wayfinding, unified communications, video security, cabling, audio-video entertainment, smart workplace, and Internet of Things. These technologies will be showcased in the Residential and Smart Building Zone (Hall 2) and other dedicated areas.

Will AI be a big focus at the event?

Yes, AI will be a significant focus at ISE 2025. The event will not only feature sessions on AI. Our Opening Keynote on Tuesday 4 February by AI futurist Brian Solis is set to be an essential destination for attendees eager to discover why now is the time for business leaders to rethink their organisations for an AI-defined future. For smart building professionals, this focus on AI will provide valuable insights into how artificial intelligence can enhance building management and operations. You will also see many solutions incorporating AI technology throughout the showfloor from exhibitors across all Technology Zones.

Are there any special events at ISE that I need to book for in advance?

Yes, there are several special events at ISE 2025 that require advance booking. The content programme, curated by AVIXA, CEDIA and ISE offers a multitude of opportunities. These include the nine Summits, the European Latin American AV Forum, Investor Forum, and CEDIA Workshops. ISE’s new ‘Day Pass’ provides visitors with access to all Summits and Track sessions taking place that day – it's a flexible option that allows you to tailor what you’d like to see and when. Make sure to book early to secure your spot at these high-demand events.

Is there a portal where I can book my accommodation?

Yes, you can book your accommodation through the official ISE accommodation partner, bnetwork. They offer a dedicated web page for booking hotels and other travel arrangements for ISE 2025. This makes it easy to find safe, convenient and comfortable lodging options close to the event venue.

Is it easy to get to the show?

ISE 2025 will be held at the Fira de Barcelona Gran Vía, which is easily accessible via now three accesses, South Access, East Access, and North Access point. There are two metro stations around Fira. Attendees can take advantage of free 5-day travel passes for public transport and additional free shuttle buses between the city center and Fira This ensures a smooth and hassle-free journey to the event.

How do I reserve my ticket for the show?

You can reserve your ticket for ISE 2025 by registering on the official ISE website and using our special code “smartbuildmag” for free registration. Various ticket options are available, including attendee tickets, day passes, and all-conference passes. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be part of the premier event for smart building professionals.