Motorola invests in new Edinburgh innovation hub for first responder technology 

Public safety technology giant Motorola Solutions has opened an Edinburgh office as it builds its presence in Scotland.

The American enterprise tech company – which specialises in providing devices and platforms to first responders – is set to invest heavily in research and development north of the border.

The decision marks an expansion of the company’s innovation activity in the high-growth area of video security and analytics, the firm said in a statement.

The hub will focus on mobile video, video security and access control businesses while ‘creating new employment and commercial opportunities for Scotland’.

Specifically, the teams based at Caledonian Exchange on Canning Street R&D teams will work on cloud-based evidence management software, video security solutions and body-worn cameras.

“The opening of Motorola Solutions’ new Edinburgh facility is a real vote of confidence and again highlights the attractiveness of investing in Scotland,” said Angus Robertson, cabinet secretary for the constitution, external affairs and culture. “Innovation is key to ensuring that Scotland is able to develop smart digital solutions to meet the needs of the future. The Motorola Solutions Innovation Hub will contribute to this work by creating video security and evidence management solutions for emergency services, not just in Scotland but internationally as well.”

The company has invested significantly in video security capabilities over the past four years including the acquisitions of U.K. companies Edesix, IndigoVision, Ava Security and Calipsa.

The acquired solutions are integrated into Motorola Solutions’ technology ecosystem, which unites voice, video, software and AI to help public safety agencies and enterprises better detect and analyse events, communicate and respond appropriately in any situation. 

“Video security and access control are playing a more powerful role in helping our customers understand and respond to rapidly evolving safety and security challenges now more than ever,” said Jack Molloy, executive vice president and chief operating officer. “This is the fastest growing part of our business, and our Edinburgh team will be instrumental in continuing to design advanced technologies that enhance safety, security and operational efficiency, reaffirming our leadership in this space.”   

Motorola Solutions’ video security innovations from Scotland are used by thousands of organisations worldwide, including U.K.-based NHS England ambulance trusts, National Highways and the Co-op, as well as international organisations, such as the French Ministry of the Interior, Malta Police, MetrôRio and Romanian Border Police.

“Edinburgh has a proven track record for some of the most exciting advancements in video innovation,” said Richie McBride, senior director of international mobile video, Motorola Solutions. “Our growing local presence reinforces Motorola Solutions’ commitment to investing in diverse talent to create next-generation, mission-critical technologies that are depended on by frontline workers all over the world.”