New initiative prioritizes open APIs, cloud integration and cross-platform collaboration.

A coalition of leading AV manufacturers and technology providers has launched OpenAV Cloud, a new industry initiative aimed at accelerating the shift to cloud-based solutions by championing openness, interoperability and customer-first innovation.

Founding members include Sony Electronics, Panasonic, Legrand, Shure, BrightSign and Xyte.

OpenAV Cloud addresses a key industry challenge: proprietary systems that limit integration and slow innovation. By building shared frameworks and open, cloud-based APIs, the group aims to enable manufacturers, integrators and end users to collaborate more efficiently across brands and platforms.

“Customers today expect their technology to work together seamlessly, regardless of the brand,” said Sam Sabet, CTO at Shure. “OpenAV Cloud is about collaborating to create AV solutions that are interoperable, efficient, and built for the future, ensuring we deliver top performance for our shared customers.”

Rich Ventura, vice president of professional display solutions at Sony Electronics, added that OpenAV Cloud will give customers “greater accessibility and freedom,” while helping the industry “streamline integrations and promote the adoption of cloud-based solutions that save time, resources and money.”

As part of the initiative, members commit to:

• Meeting demand for flexible, interoperable solutions
• Developing and maintaining open, read-write cloud APIs
• Collaborating on shared standards and best practices
• Ensuring secure, customer-controlled data access
• Supporting inclusive, cross-brand collaboration

OpenAV Cloud arrives as the AV industry rapidly moves toward cloud-native systems. The framework is intended to support faster deployment, easier integration, and a better user experience.

“The future of AV lies in accessibility and collaboration,” said Pamela Hoppel, president of Legrand | AV. “… By working together on shared standards and open APIs, we can unlock greater innovation and value across the ecosystem.”

AV manufacturers, system integrators and managed service providers are invited to join. Membership is free, with the goal of building a broad and inclusive community committed to shaping the future of AV.

The initiative officially debuts during a virtual launch event on May 21, 2025.

For more information or to join, visit www.openav.cloud.