Hi, friends! We kicked off LAVNCH WEEK 11 with a stacked lineup of sessions, panels and product spotlights — and Day One did not disappoint. From state-of-the-market insights to tech that’s transforming classrooms, it was the perfect mix of forward-looking strategy and hands-on ProAV innovation. We had a packed schedule, and trust me, you don’t want to miss a thing. This is your final warning: watch LAVNCH WEEK 11’s Day One. Here. On demand.

We started the day with a ProAV market update keynote from rAVe’s own Gary Kayye and Crestron’s Brad Hintze. The two broke down everything from macroeconomic trends to how AI is actually showing up in AV products today. Hintze said it best: “AI is not just this nebulous thing. It is software that is making the experience better.” Gary agreed, noting that integrators need to become more like technologists — crafting smarter, seamless experiences for clients.

Then, we dove into sound with a live demo of Audio-Technica’s System 20 PRO, a wireless mic system designed to work effortlessly in even the most interference-heavy spaces. “When you turn the receiver on,” said Audio-Technica’s Mark Donovan, “the first thing it does is listen to the environment.” It’s a solid choice for classrooms, boardrooms and beyond.

Steph Beckett took us into sustainability next with Kelly Bousman (AVI-SPL) and Carolina Sosa (SAVe). The panel explored everything from eco-conscious packaging to shifting manufacturer priorities. “It’s not just about end-of-life anymore,” said Bousman. “It’s about what gets included from the start.”

Later, Gary spoke with Frank Kolavo to unveil the EVOLVE Lectern — a sleek, no-assembly-required solution for higher ed. With a removable AV rack and softer design aesthetic, it’s built for both integrators and interior design teams. “I’m really focusing on not only the AV team, but also facilities folks,” Kolavo said.

We couldn’t talk about 2025 without AI in signage. Laila Hede Jensen (Zenova) and Bill Fons (CTI) joined Gary for a conversation on automation, analytics and personalization. “AI is a cultural change,” Jensen said. “Let’s embrace it.”

We ended the day with an important conversation about inclusive AV. Steph welcomed Lex Evans (USC), Andy Fekete (IDEA) and Mikey Shaffer (Listen Technologies) to explore how assistive technologies and thoughtful design can create more equitable experiences. “We benefit in our own communities by including more voices,” Shaffer reminded us.

Didn’t catch it live? No problem — you can still watch Day One on demand. Just remember: CTS RUs are only available for live viewing.