Podcast

In conversation with the IT Finanzmagazin Podcast: How KeBob enhances safety and well-being

Man with headset sitting in front of his laptop at a desk, in an office with a plant, whiteboard, and window curtain.
In a new episode of the IT Finanzmagazin Podcast, host Tobias Weidemann talks with Erich Pichler, Vice President Assistant Solutions at KEBA, about the transformation of the bank branch and how automation and artificial intelligence (AI) can sustainably improve both the customer experience and security in self-service areas.

The focus is on KeBob, KEBA’s AI-based assistant system that helps banks operate their branches securely and customer-friendly, even as self-service usage continues to increase.

But what actually distinguishes KeBob from traditional video surveillance systems? What type of AI is used? How does the system detect critical situations? How does KEBA balance innovative technology with data protection? And last but not least: How do bank customers react to a digital “face” in the branch?

These and many other questions are explored in depth during the conversation. Definitely worth a listen.

Key learnings from the conversation


KeBob is an AI assistant system – not a pure surveillance tool

While traditional cameras passively record footage, KeBob acts actively and in real time. Using computer vision, the system analyzes situations, addresses people directly, and can autonomously initiate actions. Whether it’s breaches of discretion at ATMs, medical emergencies, or atypical and improper use of the self-service area, KeBob responds appropriately to the situation, relieving both security staff and bank employees.

Security is created through interaction – not deterrence

A key element of KeBob is its human-centered communication. The face mounted on the ceiling serves as a visible point of contact, strengthening the feeling of safety without appearing intrusive or intimidating. Field experience shows that even older customers respond positively, as communication is clear, polite, and easy to understand. Language, tone, and content can be individually adapted to each bank.

AI with a clear purpose and data protection at its core

KeBob relies on specialized AI models for visual situation analysis. Video processing takes place locally within the branch. Personal data is not stored by default, and faces can be anonymized. Data protection is therefore not an afterthought, but an integral part of the system architecture.

Greater efficiency for banks – today and in the future

In addition to improved security, KeBob helps banks reduce process costs — for example through fewer false alarms, automated opening and closing of branches, and preventive measures against vandalism and ATM attacks. Looking ahead, KeBob is also expected to provide anonymous analytical data, such as branch usage heatmaps, to further optimize layouts and services.

How much AI does the bank branch of the future need?

The conversation makes one thing clear: the bank branch of the future will not become less personal—it will become smarter. AI assistant systems like KeBob take over routine tasks, enhance security, and create more room for meaningful customer interaction.

The specific role KeBob plays and how banks are likely to evolve in the coming years are discussed in detail by Tobias Weidemann and Erich Pichler in the podcast. Well worth listening to.

To listen to the full version of the audio podcast click here (duration 25 minutes, in German).

Im Podcast des IT Finanzmagazins spricht Moderator Tobias Weidemann mit Erich Pichler, Vice President Assistant Solutions bei KEBA darüber, wie Automatisierung und Künstliche Intelligenz (KI) das Kundenerlebnis sowie die Sicherheit im SB-Bereich nachhaltig verbessern können.

Interested in KeBob? Find out how you can get started with your new AI solution in just 8 steps, or get in touch with us directly—the KEBA sales team looks forward to hearing from you.

There was an error

Please contact us directly via email at [email protected].

Your request was submitted successfully

Thank you for your request. Our KEBA Customer Support will get in touch with you soon.

Contact

You need more information, have any questions or want us to call you back? We will take care of your request!

First Name is a required field
Last Name is a required field
Please enter an email address
Company is a required field
Message is a required field
Your direct contact
Katharina Grein
Katharina Grein Team Administration Officer +49 151 568 410 70 [email protected]
Please select your preferred language
Your browser is out of date
Internet Explorer is no longer supported. Please switch to a current browser to use keba.com to its fullest extent.

Edge

Chrome

Safari

Firefox