SOTI boosts retail with AI, enhanced data security & device control

SOTI has announced new enhancements to its SOTI ONE Platform aimed at addressing data security and operational efficiency for retailers.

According to SOTI's 2025 retail industry report, "The Rise of Social Commerce: Turning Tech-Driven Browsers into Influenced Buyers", there is a clear consumer expectation around data protection and rapid service in the retail sector. The report reveals that 83% of Canadian consumers consider it important for online retailers to prioritise data protection and security, while 78% express the same concern for in-store purchases. Additionally, 84% of Canadian consumers report that the speed of delivery is a key factor when choosing where to shop online.

Growing importance of data protection

The issue of consumer data security has come into greater focus following recent high-profile retail data breaches, increasing consumer awareness of how their personal information is stored and handled. This increased scrutiny puts pressure on retailers to enhance their security controls and practices both online and in store.

Shash Anand, Senior Vice President of Product Strategy at SOTI, said the company's platform upgrades are intended to give retailers comprehensive tools to meet these demands.

At SOTI SYNC 25, we're showing retailers how the SOTI ONE Platform transforms complex challenges into opportunities for smarter, faster and more secure operations. From safeguarding customer data to empowering frontline teams with the right tools, our latest innovations are built to keep retail moving at the speed of today's consumers. The result is stronger security, reduced downtime and more time for retailers to focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Device control and operational enhancements

One of the principal new features introduced to the SOTI ONE Platform is simplified device lockdown for environments where multiple employees share devices. IT administrators can now use a guided drag-and-drop design system to create custom role-specific device experiences. This restricts frontline staff access to only essential applications and tools, aiming to reduce both security risks and operational complexity. Integrated authentication methods, such as QR codes and NFC tags, enable rapid device access during shift changes and handovers, while real-time monitoring can lockdown devices moving outside prescribed geofences.

The platform also improves visibility into device usage through enhanced analytics. IT teams can access real-time information on device activity, allowing early identification of inefficiencies and opportunities to streamline workflows. This is particularly relevant in retail settings where non-charged or underperforming devices might otherwise disrupt peak shopping periods.

Warehouse and storeroom oversight

For operational oversight, SOTI ONE now includes indoor location camera streaming, supporting live video monitoring connected to locations inside warehouses and storerooms. This feature supports more efficient troubleshooting of issues such as inventory delays, misplaced items, or problems with automated equipment, helping to reduce bottlenecks and improve customer satisfaction indirectly by supporting uninterrupted store operations.

AI and integration features

SOTI has also integrated Stella, an AI-powered assistant, into the SOTI ONE Platform. Stella enables IT administrators to interact with devices through voice commands and conversational text, supporting faster troubleshooting and more efficient allocation of IT resources to critical business tasks. This automation is intended to enable retail workers to remain focused on customer service rather than technical issues.

The SOTI XSight tool now features direct integration with ServiceNow. IT teams gain access to diagnostic capabilities including remote control, live chat, screen recording, device snapshots, and file retrieval from within the ServiceNow environment. The streamlining of these tools is expected to further accelerate IT response times and limit device downtime for retail workers involved in sales, store management, or warehouse roles.

Remote management of receipt printers

The update extends to peripheral management, with SOTI Connect now offering support for Epson printers. Retail organisations can remotely enrol, configure, and manage receipt printers from a single platform. This capability aims to support uninterrupted checkouts by ensuring timely receipt printing and transactional efficiency, contributing to consumer satisfaction and potential increases in business revenue.

SOTI's latest announcement reflects ongoing demand from both consumers and the retail industry for robust data security and improved productivity. The enhancements are presented as supporting these needs by equipping retailers with operational oversight tools, greater device and user control, and integration with business-critical IT management platforms.