As we approach the new year, Axis Communications takes a moment to reflect on the key technology trends that will shape the security sector over the next 12 months. The pace of change remains as fast as ever.
Some trends are evolutions of what we’ve seen in previous years. One prominent example is the growing focus on how AI will continue to transform the security landscape. We’ve also identified emerging considerations that need to be addressed in the coming year. Additionally, some trends are either entirely new or represent the resurgence of topics that may not have been prioritized for some time.
Adapting to evolving regulations
National and regional legislators will continue striving to keep up with rapid technological advancements. AI, cybersecurity, privacy, and the need for resilience in critical infrastructure will remain key regulatory focus areas. While we haven’t highlighted these as a specific trend, they remain a priority, and every organization must respond proactively to these developments.
Within these trends lies immense potential for the security sector. For Axis Communications’ customers, this translates to enhanced capabilities, increased flexibility, improved efficiency, and greater value.
Hybrid Solutions: The Foundation for Freedom of Choice
In recent years, Axis Communications has highlighted the growing adoption of hybrid architectures—those that integrate edge, cloud, and on-premise technologies—as the go-to choice for security solutions.
Each organization’s choice of architecture depends on its unique technological, legal, ethical, and governance requirements. In a rapidly evolving environment, freedom of choice becomes critical.
Hybrid solutions empower organizations to decide how to store, view, analyze video, and manage devices. By combining edge, cloud, and on-premise technologies, Axis Communications delivers optimal system solutions, enabling flexibility to meet specific needs and scale systems seamlessly.
Whether due to local regulations, data control, cost considerations, or energy efficiency demands, hybrid solutions remain the most flexible and efficient way to build architectures that align with organizational requirements.
AI Evolution and Efficiency
The development of AI continues to accelerate. In the security sector, deep learning technologies have become the cornerstone of most analytics solutions, while generative AI is maturing rapidly. While some areas of generative AI are still surrounded by hype, practical applications within the security sector are becoming increasingly viable.
Generative AI models, however, require significant computational resources. This raises discussions around balancing the financial and environmental costs of AI with its value. Efforts are underway to reduce the size of these models while maintaining their accuracy and effectiveness.
Different AI technologies—ranging from deep learning-based object recognition to generative AI—demand specific placement within the value chain. For instance, while generative AI can assist operators through natural language interfaces, deep learning-based analytics can already be performed within Axis Communications’ surveillance cameras.
As these technologies evolve, AI will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of security operations. By analyzing diverse data inputs—such as radar, audio, and visual information—AI can proactively detect anomalies and provide actionable insights for long-term planning.
Beyond Safety and Security
Advanced computer vision, audio analytics, and access control technologies continue to improve safety and security use cases. With the enhanced accuracy of AI-powered analytics, incidents can now be addressed more swiftly and effectively.
Axis Communications sees an increasing trend in leveraging data from sensors—such as video, audio, and environmental inputs—for applications beyond traditional security. For instance, data collected for security purposes can be repurposed to improve customer or employee experiences, enhance sustainability, and boost operational efficiency.
By fostering an open and collaborative ecosystem of application developers and system integrators, Axis Communications is well-positioned to bring greater value to its customers.
The “Rebirth” of Image Quality
Image quality has always been a priority in the security sector. However, the growing reliance on AI and analytics means that image quality is now more critical than ever.
Today, visual data is often first analyzed by machines rather than humans. High-resolution images significantly improve object recognition, accuracy, and data quality. Axis Communications’ innovations in image quality have unlocked opportunities for greater efficiency and effectiveness.
For example, a single high-resolution camera can cover areas that previously required multiple devices. Enhanced image quality also supports advanced analytics, even in challenging scenarios such as crowded spaces, busy intersections, or fast-moving environments.
Long-Term Value Through Software Support
At Axis Communications, quality hardware is just the beginning. While robust hardware can last for years, its true value lies in ongoing software support, which ensures optimal functionality and cybersecurity throughout the product lifecycle.
Comprehensive software support reduces the total cost of ownership, allowing customers to maximize their investment in high-quality solutions.
Technology Autonomy to Benefit Customers
Axis Communications is committed to aligning innovations with customer priorities, whether in safety and security, operational efficiency, or sustainability. By maintaining autonomy over core technologies—such as the ARTPEC system-on-chip developed over the past 25 years—Axis Communications ensures unparalleled flexibility and performance.
Greater control over foundational technology also enables Axis Communications to deliver secure-by-design solutions while mitigating risks associated with supply chain disruptions.
