Motorola Solutions acquires Edesix parent company VaaS International Holdings

Motorola Solutions has acquired VaaS International Holdings, a provider of AI-driven image capture and analysis technology, in a deal worth $445m.

Motorola Solutions, a global leader in mission-critical communications, paid in a combination of cash and equity.

Based in Livermore, California and Fort Worth, Texas, VaaS – or ‘video analysis as a service’ – specialises in data and image analytics for vehicle location.

Licence plate capture is complicated by the variability of plates between states and countries, the fact its target – vehicles – move, sometimes at sometimes high speeds, and the potential for low-visibility weather conditions. VaaS technology overcomes these difficulties in part through deployment of machine learning and artificial intelligence.

The company’s subsidiaries include Vigilant Solutions, which is focused on law enforcement, and Digital Recognition Network (DRN), catering for commercial customers.

“I believe that this acquisition will present growth and expansion for us as a business, and will strengthen our wearable security solutions globally.” Edesix managing director Richie McBride

“We are very excited to be joining Motorola Solutions,” said Shawn Smith, co-founder of VaaS and president of Vigilant Solutions. “This acquisition enables us to continue to serve our existing customers and expand our footprint globally, while at the same time supporting a company with a commitment to innovation and growth, guided by a common purpose that aligns with our mission and culture: ‘To help people be their best in the moments that matter.’ It doesn’t get any better than that.”

VaaS is also parent company of Endinburgh-based body-worn video developer Edesix.

Founded in 2002, Edesix develops both hardware and software that protects the safety of those for those in public-facing roles – like police or transport workers – as well as producing evidence fit for the courtroom when needed.

The company’s flagship product series, VideoBadge, is a body-worn video system with footage encryption and, for greater versatility, wire-free design.

Edesix customers can control cameras, view and edit incidents, plus prepare evidence packages through VideoManager software. The software can also control footage from other sources if required.

Edesix customers include Abu Dhabi police force and the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

“We’re exceptionally pleased to be part of a world-class company like Motorola, and are excited about the opportunities this will bring for Edesix,” said Edesix managing director Richie McBride. “I believe that this acquisition will present growth and expansion for us as a business, and will strengthen our wearable security solutions globally.”

Said Greg Brown, chairman and CEO, Motorola Solutions: “Automated licence plate recognition is an increasingly powerful tool for law enforcement. With this acquisition, VaaS will expand our command centre software portfolio with the largest shareable database of vehicle location information that can help shorten response times and improve the speed and accuracy of investigations.”

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