Next-Gen Self Storage Security Tech: AI Insights, Enhanced Data Use and Hospitality-Level Convenience Coming Soon

Operators can no longer just rent and manage space; they are charged with delivering unstoppable security and the kind of smooth, tech-driven convenience tenants already expect in most aspects of daily life.

PTI Security Systems’ Chief Technology Officer Nathan Davenport and Senior Vice President/Chief Technology Officer Steven Reid of ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions share how emerging technologies, from AI-powered analytics to Bluetooth “hands-free” entry, are reshaping facility automation, customer interactions, secure access, and operational efficiency.

“The next few years will redefine our industry,” predicts Nathan Davenport. “Staying ahead of tenant expectations, operator growth goals, and evolving security threats starts with advanced technology.”  ASSA ABLOY’s acquisition of PTI Security Systems in 2019 rapidly boosted PTI’s technology innovation capabilities with expanded resources, consistent R&D and quality control processes, and industry-spanning safety and security knowledge. “Becoming part of the ASSA ABLOY organization came at a time when the self-storage industry was primed for a tech infusion, and now we are rapidly delivering, ” he added.

Self-Storage Gaining Speed on Tech Fast Track

Unlike other industries that transitioned to digital systems over decades, self-storage is poised to leap forward in just a few short years. “Self-storage is currently transforming from mechanical to electro-mechanical, similar to what we have observed in other adjacent industries,” observes Steven Reid. “Up until now, self-storage has embraced this transition at a slower pace. But we expect increased momentum as tenants demand mobile-first connectivity and operators recognize the value and potential ROI of smarter and more connected facilities.”

Reid emphasizes that cloud-native applications and connected devices are imminent realities in self-storage facilities. Movement toward portfolio-wide platforms that provide operators with a bird’s-eye view of their facilities through a single login, and a frictionless experience for tenants from gate to unit door, will mirror the convenience that consumers and business owners have come to expect in other daily experiences.

Here are some of the ways this is happening:

AI-Driven Insights: From Events to Action

“AI is an emerging technology that can no longer be ignored,” says Davenport. Rather than layering generic algorithms onto security data, PTI Security Systems is exploring ways to integrate its unique site-activity events, such as gate entries, tailgating attempts, and smart-lock activations, with machine learning models. This approach promises predictive maintenance, early threat detection, and dynamic staffing recommendations tailored to real facility usage.

“Pairing access-control data with AI uncovers relationships an operator could never spot alone,” Davenport notes.

PTI anticipates rolling out its first AI-based analytics within the next two years, delivering game-changing impacts for operators ready to stay ahead of both security and maintenance challenges. While currently AI is mainly used for efficiency and support, its integration into products for proactive operations is on the horizon.

Data Analytics: Anticipating Needs and Driving Revenue

Beyond security alerts, historical usage patterns can empower operators to optimize revenue and allocate resources more effectively.  “Frequency of visits, access times, tailgating trends… these all tell a story about how your facility really operates,” Davenport explains. By translating that story into smart pricing and efficient shift planning, operators can boost occupancy and reduce labor costs without compromising on safety.

“Facilities that utilize smart products gain valuable insights through real-time communication with their access control systems, allowing them to track access history and usage patterns,” says Davenport.

Combining AI with thorough data reporting will provide operators with potential new revenue streams by building offerings around predictive behaviors and maintenance needs. To make data more digestible and applicable, StorLogix Cloud includes more than 40 pre-built, real-time reports that automatically compile and analyze data from all connected devices. These reports empower operators to make informed decisions and manage their facilities more nimbly and effectively.

Speedier, More Reliable Access

Traditionally, self-storage access relied on cellular networks, but the industry is rapidly shifting toward Bluetooth and NFC communications between smartphones and security devices. PTI’s platform supports both approaches: legacy cellular keypads and modern Bluetooth-enabled keypads and smart locks. Bluetooth reduces latency, improves reliability, and requires fewer components, an advantage in facilities with weak cell coverage. PTI’s “Hands-Free” mode takes this a step further. When enabled in StorLogix Cloud, tenants simply carry their phones within range to authenticate at AP1 Keypads, eliminating the need to unlock or interact with their devices for entry.

“High security typically meant more friction at the gate,” Davenport observes. “But ASSA ABLOY’s deep hospitality expertise demonstrates that seamless access can happen even with robust encryption. PTI is leveraging sister-company innovations to bring that same balance to self-storage.”

Reid adds, “The goal isn’t to choose between security and a frictionless experience; it’s to build them both from the start.”

Cybersecurity and Privacy: Built-In by Design

As a member of the ASSA ABLOY Group, PTI Security Systems is committed to upholding stringent data protection standards in both the U.S. and Europe, including the principle of data minimization. This means that only data necessary for a specific intended purpose is collected. Personally identifiable information is automatically deleted 90 days after a tenant’s rental agreement expires, or sooner upon the tenant’s request. Beyond this period, only necessary, non-personalized site access and analytics data are retained, in accordance with the highest standards of data protection.

“Security moves fast,” notes Davenport. “Building privacy and encryption into the product lifecycle, rather than as an afterthought, sets a new benchmark for trust and compliance in self-storage.” At ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions, compliance isn’t seen as a barrier but as a strategic advantage and differentiator. Backed by decades of security leadership, the company invests heavily in staying ahead of evolving regulations. This foundation enables PTI Security Systems to meet stringent global standards quickly and confidently, a feat that newer market entrants may struggle to match.

Both AP1 and ProEdge have achieved expanded certifications designed to enhance data protection and prevent malicious interference. Davenport says, "Our products are held to exceptionally high standards. This commitment not only ensures compliance abroad but also delivers elevated security and data protection for our North American customers, surpassing many current domestic standards.” 

Sustainability and Circularity

Lessons from other industries, along with a growing wave of energy-conscious legislation, particularly in Europe, are already influencing product design themes. “We're looking at how innovations can reduce our environmental footprint without compromising performance,” Reid says. That might look like a next-generation smart lock that charges itself, eliminating the need for battery replacements.

Beyond energy efficiency, PTI Security Systems and Assa Abloy are placing a tremendous focus on the idea of circularity – designing products that are intended to be both upgradeable and repairable, further supporting an organization-wide commitment to sustainability.  “Our latest keypad, the AP1+, is our first modular keypad designed to enable parts to be swapped in the field to extend its life and keep facilities running,” says Davenport. “If an outage occurs -- whether from a lightning strike or other issue -- the faceplate can be shipped and replaced in minutes, without sending the whole unit back for repair, keeping facilities fully operational with minimal downtime.”

Sneak Peek: The Six-Year Generation Plan

PTI’s commitment to innovation is codified in its New Product Introduction ratio, which requires that at least 25 percent of revenue come from products under three years old. While specific products in development remain under wraps, Davenport says a wide range of known technologies are being explored, like:

Biometric Authentication with fingerprint or facial recognition

AI-enabled Threat Scoring to reduce false alarms and elevate real alerts

Predictive Maintenance Alerts provided by machine learning

Digital Wallet Integration for Contactless Entry via Apple or Google Wallets.

Within the next 10 years, operators and tenants can expect further evolution in security, extending to in-unit and real-time asset identification.

Throughout research and development efforts, PTI Security Systems stays aware of what both operators and tenants appreciate about their current self-storage experience and what frustrations and inconveniences can be eliminated.

Security by Design

“PTI’s velocity and resources, backed by ASSA ABLOY’s global R&D, will revolutionize the way self-storage facilities integrate technology, serve tenants, and support operational efficiency, “ Davenport says. “With our security by design mission, expect to see our customers providing a self-storage experience on par with hospitality brands.”

As self-storage evolves from basic gate control to fully integrated, data-driven ecosystems, the industry’s leading operators recognize that security is an essential factor in facility design and management. PTI Security Systems is setting a new standard; one in which operational efficiency and robust protection rise together, and where innovations deliver tangible ROI from day one.

About PTI Security Systems: With more than 40 years of experience and more than 40,000 installations globally, PTI Security Systems (www.ptisecuritysystems.com) is the most trusted name in self-storage security. PTI offers the most innovative, durable, and reliable security products available today, along with a comprehensive range of integrated security solutions that enhance the seamless experience for both tenants and self-storage operators.

About ASSA ABLOY: PTI Security Systems is part of ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions, which provides safe and sustainable cutting-edge technology solutions for physical and digital access management control. As a full solutions provider, ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions is part of the wider ASSA ABLOY Group. Being a global leader in access solutions, the Group operates worldwide with 63,000 employees and holds leading positions in areas such as efficient door opening, trusted identities, and entrance automation.