The primary function of surveillance cameras will remain consistent during the coming years, as the tools will still generally be used for crime deterrence. As security solutions become "smarter," however, cameras will begin to develop more in-depth capabilities, giving them a leg up on older models, according to a Retail Info Systems News report.

Innovative security cameras now include advanced analytic technologies that give them the ability to learn and adapt to new situations. RIS News noted that some surveillance solutions can track employees based on shirt color or trigger alerts in the presence of anomalies, such as too many workers on the floor or backroom employees wandering the storefront.

Facial and pattern recognition capabilities are also becoming more common video intelligence functions, allowing decision-makers to track suspicious behavior or individuals. Many surveillance systems today, for example, simultaneously monitor when products are selected and when customers fail to purchase an item, RIS News noted.

By leveraging advanced technologies, retailers can prevent theft from occurring, thereby increasing revenue.

A recent study by the University of Florida revealed that the use of integrated security systems reduced crime as a percentage of revenue to 1.41 percent in 2011, down from 1.49 in the study's previous findings. This resulted in a savings of approximately $2.6 billion.

"The decrease in retail theft can be a direct result of the widespread investment in technologies and integrated solutions by retailers," physical security expert Michael Creedon said. "Clearly security solutions are proving to be a solid investment and have saved retailers billions of dollars in losses every year."

As surveillance and other technologies become smarter, the tools will likely be leveraged by more businesses around the world in an effort to improve revenue and decrease criminal activity.