Axon - Experts & Thought Leaders

Axon, the global public safety technology pioneer, announced a new standard in real-time intelligence during Axon Week 2026, its annual user conference. New AI-powered capabilities enable agencies to detect incidents earlier, access critical information faster, and coordinate responses more effectively while maintaining security and data control across the full incident lifecycle. Incident occurence In the United States alone, more than 240 million 911 calls are placed each year, increasingly including video, images and telemetry. Simultaneously, body-worn and static cameras generate millions of hours of footage.  This "data tax" means that vital context is frequently spread across systems, or critical moments can be missed, which slows response times and increases risk to both officers and their communities. “Axon’s customers are being asked to do more with greater transparency and higher expectations,” said Rick Smith, Founder and CEO of Axon. “We are breaking down information barriers and providing a secure, compliant foundation to help prevent harm, accelerate justice and protect life in the communities our customers serve.” Latest technology Axon’s latest technology brings unprecedented clarity, speed, and coordination across live video, 911 and reporting workflows. The enhanced AI platform connects data, devices, and workflows across the public safety ecosystem, reducing complexity for officers previously relying on separate systems, and helping agencies respond with more precision and speed. Building on a secure, compliant foundation that keeps agency data secure and interactions auditable, these updates extend that unified intelligence layer further across real-time video, mobile and emergency call workflows. Announcing Axon Vision: Real-Time Awareness from Live Video: With millions of CCTV cameras in the U.S. alone, Axon Vision uses AI to recognise critical activity in live video as it happens, helping operators cut through overwhelming volumes of footage and hone in on what matters most. When an alert appears, operators can verify what’s happening using nearby cameras and determine the appropriate response. Powering New Workflows with the Secure, Privacy-First Axon Assistant: First introduced on body-worn cameras with a focused set of capabilities, Axon Assistant is now expanding with new features and will be accessible across the Axon Ecosystem. Axon Assistant provides secure, FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Security Policy–compliant access to data in Axon Evidence and the Axon App on mobile devices. Assistant combines the power of the latest AI models with secure access to an agency’s environment to help officers complete daily tasks such as creating a Be On The Lookout (BOLO) alert, researching a case and, more broadly, enabling analysis and seamless coordination between the field and back office. Redefining Emergency Response with Axon 911: Following the acquisitions of Prepared and Carbyne, Axon 911 brings cloud-based infrastructure that sets the foundation for an AI-enabled center and helps redefine how 911 centers fundamentally operate. It brings emergency response data directly into the response work flows, giving responders critical context before they arrive on scene.

The collaboration between Chubbsafes and Axon Business Systems LLC spans multiple generations of leadership and reflects a sustained commitment to maintaining consistent security standards within the region. Over the decades, Axon has represented Chubbsafes across government, commercial and private sector environments where certified protection and long-term product performance are critical considerations. Delivering dependable solutions Says Mr. Hamdan Mostafa, CEO of Axon Business Systems LLC & MBAL Investments LLC: “Our long-standing relationship with Chubbsafes reflects the brand’s reliability, engineering precision, and the confidence it inspires in the UAE market. Known for taking a disciplined approach to design and consistent build quality, Chubbsafes has allowed us to stand behind the brand wholeheartedly, reinforcing our commitment to delivering dependable solutions to our customers." “The Chubbsafes 1835 safe embodies this legacy, representing an iconic piece of security technology built on a certified product solution. It demonstrates how proven engineering standards can remain relevant across generations.” Marking the founding year The Chubbsafes 1835 is a certified, limited-edition safe presented to AXON Business Systems LLC to mark the company’s founding year, with production capped at 190 units, representing one for each year of the brand’s history. Built on the DuoGuard platform, the model provides burglary resistance while being lighter than traditional high-security safes. It includes certified fire protection for documents, tested to internationally recognised standards, and features design elements referencing earlier Chubbsafes models. True partnership Jacob Touma VP Gunnebo MEA added: “Our long-term relationship with Axon reflects our approach to working with clients in true partnership. The aim has always been to grow together and to act as a trusted point of reference for safe storage solutions." “Axon has represented Chubbsafes with consistency and integrity in the market, and the 1835 safe reflects both our history and the role Axon has played in maintaining our standards. We know the relationship will continue to evolve, shaped by the same values that have defined it from the outset, with a continued focus on quality, accountability and long-term commitment.”

Axon, the pioneer in public safety technology, unveils Axon Body Workforce Mini (ABW Mini), the newest addition to its enterprise-focused body camera line, purpose-built for retail, healthcare, and other frontline workers to better protect people and property. At under 100 grams, ABW Mini is 25% smaller and lighter than current Axon cameras, yet just as durable and packed with powerful capabilities. These include enhanced communications, extended battery life, and a front-facing LED matrix display for added transparency. Connected technology “Every worker deserves to go home safe,” said Josh Isner, President of Axon. “With Axon Body Workforce Mini, we’ve taken the same connected technology trusted in public safety and reimagined it for today’s frontline—lighter, smarter, and powered by AI.” Meeting frontline challenges ABW Mini was developed in close alliance with frontline staff and industry pioneers to meet these realities Workplace violence and theft have escalated—especially in hospitals and retail—while staffing shortages strain response times. Healthcare workers make up just 10% of the U.S. workforce yet suffer nearly half of all nonfatal workplace injuries from violence, according to the CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. In retail, nearly 60% of security teams report witnessing workplace violence, according to Loss Prevention Magazine. A 2024 study of retailers using body-worn cameras, conducted by Adrian Beck, an emeritus professor at the University of Leicester, also found an average 37% drop in incidents of violence and verbal abuse. ABW Mini was developed in close partnership with frontline staff and industry pioneers to meet these realities head-on. Major healthcare and retail pioneers are among the first partners planning to deploy the device to strengthen frontline protection. Key capabilities Seamless wearability: Ultra-lightweight at under 100 grams, designed for all-day comfort and to integrate naturally with existing uniforms. Instant support at the push of a button: Panic activation with two-way voice will alert supervisors and can trigger live streaming. Transparency everyone can see: Front-facing LED matrix signals recording and panic states. AI-enabled assistance: Axon Assistant offers real-time translation and policy guidance. Full-shift endurance: Lightweight design with over 12 hours of battery life. On-brand design: Customisable device colours paired with a wide selection of LED icons and animations turn signals into brand-right, engaging moments — from alerts to fun visuals. Companion training tool: Axon MetaCoach delivers AI-powered simulations and interactive guidance. Axon’s operating system Axon’s operating system brings jointly cameras, sensors, contact tools, and digital assets ABW Mini connects directly into Axon OS, Axon’s operating system that brings together cameras, sensors, communication tools, and digital assets into one secure platform.  This seamless connection gives organisations clear visibility and real-time awareness from the first alert through final resolution. Alerts are routed into Axon Fusus for immediate response, stored safely in Axon Digital Asset Manager, and can be shared seamlessly with law enforcement when needed—helping keep workers and communities safer. Availability Axon Body Workforce Mini enters early deployments in the U.S. and Canada in the first half of 2026, with general availability by mid-year and expansion to additional regions to follow. Organisations interested in early access can engage now to secure priority placement.

In the simplest terms, technology modernisation accelerates when older systems become too expensive to maintain or fail to support modern standards. Market competition pushes businesses to update their technologies to meet rising customer demands. Additionally, the rapid shift toward cloud-based infrastructures and artificial intelligence creates a fear of missing out, forcing companies to adapt or risk irrelevance. Focusing on the physical security market, we asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What factors are accelerating technology modernisation in security?

The security landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, as evidenced by the innovations showcased at the ISC West Expo 2026. From dismantling of silos between physical and digital security to the ongoing transition to cloud and hybrid platforms, much of the discussion on the show floor was familiar, if somehow more urgent than ever. Clearly the industry is moving toward unified, cloud-native, and highly automated ecosystems. In a series of deep-dive meetings and demonstrations at the recent show, I got a first-hand glimpse of the future of the physical security marketplace. Spoiler alert: The future is now! HID Global: Tearing down the silos HID Global is addressing the long-requested convergence of physical and digital security. Recognising that the industry has historically operated in silos, HID is now leading with a combined implementation team to leverage the power of both sides. HID is supporting the transition by combining its logical and physical security teams to help end users design secure, end-to-end journeys for their employees. By leveraging its massive existing footprint in physical access, HID is uniquely positioned to help organisations upgrade their cybersecurity posture without a total "rip and replace" of their hardware. HID is seeing a surge in demand for converged credentials that unite building access with digital identity. On the digital front, HID has implemented FIDO (Fast Identity Online) and passkeys to replace traditional passwords with more secure, biometric-backed authentication methods. Acre Security: Bridging the gap to the cloud Acre Security previewed a cloud-native video solution, reinforcing its cloud-first security strategyAcre Security is currently consolidating brands, bringing established names like Feenics and AccessIt under a single corporate umbrella. A primary theme for the company at ISC West is the migration of legacy systems to modern infrastructure. To facilitate the transition, they are launching "The Bridge," a technology designed to help on-premise customers transition to the cloud at a pace that suits their operational needs. The company is also expanding its portfolio into video. Attendees at the show received a preview of a new cloud-native video solution slated for release later this year, signaling Acre’s commitment to a holistic, cloud-first security suite. Acoem: Real-time acoustic threat detection With a 35-year foundation in vibration and acoustics—including military sniper detection—Acoem is providing gunshot detection through edge processing. Unlike systems that rely on the cloud and may suffer from latency, Acoem’s technology processes data at the sensor level for instant alerts. Their sensors are engineered for massive outdoor spaces, covering a 500-foot radius (roughly 11 football fields) and can detect high-powered rifle shots from up to half a mile away. The system provides critical intelligence by distinguishing between muzzle blasts and "mach noise" from bullet travel, delivering an audio file to the end-user that maps the location and direction of the threat. They use AI to filter out environmental false positives, such as skateboards hitting metal rails. Alarm.com: The all-in-one dealer ecosystem Beyond hardware, Alarm.com is leveraging AI to streamline the sales process Alarm.com is doubling down on "giving tools to dealers to help them be successful," with a focus on unified commercial solutions. A highlight at ISC West is their new fire communicator, which integrates fire monitoring into their single app, completing what they call the "fourth leg of the stool." The product allows fire systems to benefit from the same real-time customer engagement and push notifications that have long been available for intrusion and video. The key products, such as commercial-grade hardware, are now available for immediate purchase. Beyond hardware, Alarm.com is leveraging AI to streamline the sales process. Their new AI Proposal Builder uses customer meeting notes to automatically generate customised, value-driven sales proposals for dealers. Allegion: A global shift in credentialing Following the acquisition of ELATEC, Allegion is adopting a more global market approach and expanding its OEM business. The company is involved in the development of Aliro, the newly unveiled mobile credentialing standard. Allegion’s strategy is built on versatility: While Aliro serves the burgeoning mobile market, they also offer PKOC for plastic cards, allowing them to provide solutions regardless of the user's preferred credential type. The ELATEC acquisition has effectively filled previous gaps in their use-case portfolio, positioning them as a comprehensive provider for both physical and digital access needs. AtlasIED: Engineering for life safety Transitioning from audio to a fully automated threat detection company, AtlasIED showcased its new IPX line at ISC West. This modular platform uses a single PoE++ port to power various "plug-and-play" modules, allowing for easy system upgrades. Their gun detection technology achieves a 99% confidence rating by "stacking" AI models; it cross-references audio data with infrared signatures to detect muzzle flashes and air quality sensors for particulates. With systems already running in 80% of U.S. international airports, the company maintains 24/7 domestic engineering support to manage these "life-safety adjacent" environments. Axis Communications: Unifying connectivity Axis Communications is advancing network video with 4G/5G surveillance, reducing cabling needs Axis Communications continues to lead in network video, with a new focus on offering surveillance through 4G and 5G networks to eliminate the need for extensive cabling in long-range applications. Axis also introduced several specialised hardware pieces, including the P1486-LE global shutter camera for high-speed traffic monitoring and the Q2802-TE, which integrates thermal and visual monitoring into a single unit.  To assist technicians, they launched a new installer app that uses Bluetooth for easier camera pairing and management directly from a mobile device. Axon: De-escalation through enterprise wearables Focusing on frontline safety, Axon is expanding from law enforcement into the enterprise sector with its retail and healthcare-focused body camera. Weighing only 0.25 lb, these cameras are designed to be less intimidating, using colorful designs and acting as a primary de-escalator for aggressive behavior. A clear front display signals when recording is active, striking a balance between safety and a non-intimidating appearance. These devices feature live-streaming and panic alarms that connect workers to a Global Security Operations Center (GSOC). To ensure the footage is legally viable, Axon maintains a rigorous audit trail that authenticates every action recorded. Genetec: The value of the unified platform Genetec is advocating for unified platforms that reduce the time between incident detection and resolution. They argue that AI is becoming a commodity and that the true value lies in unified platforms that reduce the time from incident to resolution. Their approach emphasises the "outcomes" customers need, such as allowing security teams to coalesce around an investigation quickly. Genetec remains a strong supporter of open systems for enterprise customers, ensuring they have the choice to integrate diverse technologies rather than being locked into a manufacturer’s “walled garden.” This flexibility is critical for high-end security environments that require tailored, responsive systems. Johnson Controls: Large-scale enterprise solutions Johnson Controls has made a significant push into the enterprise video market with C-Cure IQ, a standalone VMS designed for major hubs like airports and large campuses. Through a partnership with Scylla, they have integrated 11 advanced analytics—including facial recognition and weapons detection—directly into their cameras. They also showcased new multi-sensor panoramic cameras capable of "stitching" multiple images into a single 360-degree view. While innovating in video, Johnson Controls also confirmed modern upgrades to their intrusion line, including their legacy DSC Neo line. The new DSC PowerSeries Neo 5, a high-end residential and commercial platform, features an all-new user interface and built-in PowerG+. They have also begun shipping the IQ5 family lineup, which is powered by a Qualcomm DragonWing processor.  ONVIF: Standardising the future of AI and cloud ONVIF continues to lead the charge in establishing common languages for the security industry. A major focus is their new "Cloud Profile," which enables cameras to connect directly to the cloud through a standardised protocol. They are also expanding into audio standards to ensure IP-based speakers can seamlessly connect to Video Management Systems (VMS). To combat the rise of sophisticated digital manipulation, ONVIF is developing "video signing" standards. ONVIF is actively seeking more diverse enterprise participation to help shape these emerging AI standardsThis feature protects the integrity of video for evidentiary purposes by embedding a digital signature and timestamp directly into the footage at the camera level. Additionally, the organisation has formed an AI Working Group to develop common communication methods for "AI agents" within physical security systems. ONVIF is actively seeking more diverse enterprise participation to help shape these emerging AI standards. Roberto Licari is the new ONVIF Ambassador, seeking to attract new companies (even outside the security sector) to ONVIF as they look to expand their offerings. SwiftConnect: Bridging digital and physical identity SwiftConnect is redefining access control by shifting the focus from physical cards to digital identity. As a cloud-based "connected access network," the platform bridges the gap between IT identity providers (like Okta or Azure AD) and legacy physical access control systems. At the show's Security Experience Center demonstrations, SwiftConnect showcased its ability to integrate mobile credentials within Apple and Google Wallets across multiple technology platforms. By aligning physical security with Zero Trust principles, they ensure that access is governed by the same rigorous standards as digital networks. Their software-centric approach allows for a more seamless employee experience while simplifying the management of complex, multi-site building security. This emphasises a future where the mobile device becomes the primary tool for navigating the physical workspace. Wasabi Technologies: Redefining cloud storage economics With cloud technology becoming a baseline requirement at every booth, Wasabi Technologies highlighted its "hot cloud storage" as a cost-effective alternative to major hyperscalers. Their model claims to be 80% less expensive than competitors, notably removing hidden fees. Wasabi is increasingly bundled at the "back end" of security solutions through partnerships with integrators and end users. A key feature for law enforcement and high-security sectors is their "Object Lock" capability, which ensures that video evidence remains untampered with and immutable during defined retention periods. By providing high-performance storage without the unpredictable costs typically associated with the cloud, Wasabi is positioning itself as the foundational layer for data-heavy video surveillance applications that require long-term, secure retention. Wasabi is positioning itself as the foundational layer for data-heavy video surveillance applications ZKTeco USA: Versatile and integrated access ZKTeco USA showcased a range of integrated solutions, including turnstiles, visitor management, and access control. Their Atlas access control series offers versatility, supporting everything from traditional readers and keypads to QR codes and fingerprint scanning, with the flexibility to operate on-premise or in the cloud. For tight environments, they introduced the Mars 100 turnstile, which features a compact 2x3-foot footprint. They also highlighted the Omni series, an all-in-one standalone reader-controller that manages access, intercom, and visitor functions in a single device. Innovation in portability was evident in their new walk-through metal detectors, which consist of two poles with an 8-hour battery life—ideal for schools and temporary events. While they offer their own Armatura readers, ZKTeco emphasised that their solutions can integrate with other industry leaders to fit diverse customer needs.

There was high-level energy at GSX 2025, befitting an industry undergoing massive change. Artificial intelligence (AI) was everywhere, but not so much in the booth signage. Rather, AI has made its way beyond marketing claims and solidly into the core of the products themselves. There were hundreds of examples of how AI is changing how security systems operate, all for the better. Clearly on display at GSX 2025 was an industry in the midst of metamorphosis.  Deep integration of AI My conversations with companies across the security ecosystem revealed an industry heavily focused on leveraging advanced technologies like AI and the cloud to address increasingly complex global and localised threats. Several key themes emerged at the Global Security Exchange (GSX), sponsored by ASIS International, held Sept. 29–Oct. 1 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Centre in New Orleans, La. Themes I heard repeated throughout the show floor included deep integration of AI, the ongoing shift toward cloud-based and hybrid architectures, and a sharp focus on modernising security systems to meet current challenges. AI and intelligent automation transform security The use of GenAI is moving beyond simple search functions into real-time decision support Companies are integrating AI and intelligent technologies to enhance analytics, streamline incident response, and improve internal efficiency. The use of Generative AI (GenAI) is moving beyond simple search functions into real-time decision support. For example, Bosch Video Systems introduced a "second tier" to its video analytics capabilities by combining highly sensitive edge detection with GenAI models in the cloud. For example, in visual gun detection, edge analytics might flag a potential gun (yellow), but the cloud-based GenAI then quickly reviews and confirms the threat (red), helping to filter out false alarms. Bosch is also using GenAI for more open-ended searches, such as a "Where's Waldo" application demonstrated at their booth. GenAI-powered system  Eagle Eye Networks says they are focused on helping integrators "organise the AI chaos” through their cloud-based video platform. Their precision person and vehicle detection capabilities work across multiple cameras. Motorola Solutions introduced Inform, an AI-assisted incident response solution designed to bring clarity to the "noise" and help security teams respond to complex threats. They also offer Avigilon Visual Alerts, an on-prem GenAI-powered system that expands the natural language interface. AI internally to improve processes The Body Workforce Mini protects frontline workers and businesses "amid rising violence and theft." The Axon Body Workforce Mini, a small “computer with a lens” for non-police applications, is AI-capable and can perform real-time translations, automated report writing, and summarisation, and can even act as a personal assistant by incorporating company policies. All those functions are built into a lightweight body-worn camera designed to safeguard frontline workers in retail and healthcare verticals. The Body Workforce Mini protects frontline workers and businesses "amid rising violence and theft." Beyond products, integration company Everon is using AI internally to improve processes, such as handling commoditised tasks, which they expect will result in better customer satisfaction. Everon wants to be known as a premier service provider and will be introducing new services in the video realm. AI-powered search and continuous system upgrades Genetec prefers the term Intelligent Automation (IA), instead of AI, to describe its empathetic interface, which can "know" what additional information a security professional needs when they click on an image, for example. Genetec says the advantages of the cloud include AI-powered search and continuous system upgrades. Their Security Centre SaaS has had a fast and successful launch. It enables cloud-based systems with local storage.  Genetec also highlighted the Cloudlink 210, a cloud-managed appliance designed to unify physical security operations that can be simply plugged in without involving IT staff. They call it a “headless appliance.” Cloud migration and the push for hybrid systems Hanwha debuted OnCAFE (Cloud Access for Everyone), a new cloud-based access control product The industry continues its strategic march toward the cloud, often through hybrid applications that blend on-prem strength with cloud flexibility. Acre's access control is described as "cloud-first technology," and they continue to focus on cloud solutions, incorporating AI. To help customers transition, they offer the "Bridge," a migration tool that allows systems to communicate throughout the move. At the same time, they are continuing to develop and enhance their core on-prem products – DNA Fusion and AccessIt!. Adding access control to supplement their video product line, Hanwha debuted OnCAFE (Cloud Access for Everyone), a new cloud-based access control product. The goal is to provide “access control that is easy;” It works alongside their OnCloud direct-to-cloud VMS as a Service platform. Future of video management The future of video management is increasingly hybrid. Milestone recently completed a three-year process of updating XProtect and building for the future of hybrid applications. At GSX, they showcased how their XProtect Evidence Manager seeks to "democratise evidence management" by collecting video, cell phone data, notes, and other metadata related to a case for easy sharing and prosecution. Also, Milestone’s “app centre” enables additional features to enhance XProtect without involving integration.  Milestone is also focusing on "Metadata Ingest," which collects and aggregates data from various manufacturers (including Genetec, Motorola, and Exacq) for use by AI. Strategic modernisation and open integration Convergint and Genetec collaborated on a "2026 Technology Modernisation Outlook" white paper A key theme for the future is the shift toward open systems and strategic modernisation, enabling security professionals to better utilise new technology. Convergint and Genetec collaborated on a "2026 Technology Modernisation Outlook" white paper, arguing that dealers and end-users need to think more strategically when buying technology. They predict that "2026 will be the year of modernisation," with tangible results including unified intelligence, flexible deployment, and lower total cost of ownership. The call for open standards and architecture was also strong. What AI needs from open systems Johnson Controls noted that cloud, AI, and open standards are its three big focus areas. Their C-CURE IQ 3.10 is gaining adoption as it unifies access and video. OpenEye is seeking to address the "AI disruption anxiety" in the industry, focusing on what AI needs from open systems. The emphasis is on the value of a Model Context Protocol (MCP), an open standard and framework to enable AI systems to integrate and share data with external tools and sources. Addressing shifting global and local threats Allied Universal's "World Security Report 2025" highlights a risen focus on executive protection Companies unveiled solutions targeted at new security concerns, particularly the rising threat of violence, theft, and misinformation. Allied Universal's "World Security Report 2025" highlights an increased focus on executive protection and cites the rise of misinformation and disinformation as the number two threat. They noted that macro trends around instability and the political and social environment are driving security threats globally. To combat physical threats, Shooter Detection Systems introduced a new outdoor sensor, which is now generally available after a favourable feedback period that included an apprehension in one municipality. The company notes the unique challenge of developing technology for a "non-cooperative" threat like a person with a gun, in contrast to most security technologies that are "cooperative" and depend on user compliance. Implementation of integrated security Flock Safety is expanding its focus beyond licence plate readers into solutions for retail, with a new initiative to automate and streamline investigative processes, which are often manual. The company also showcased "drones as automated security guards," which can be deployed within 90 seconds to provide "eyes" on a site and enhance safety. The system works on its own network and is firewalled away from the city system A tour of the City of New Orleans' Real Time Crime Centre (RTCC), hosted by Axis Communications, demonstrated a mature implementation of integrated security. The RTCC uses Axis cameras, Genetec VMS, and is tied to a Motorola Solutions Command Centre to enhance efficiency and effectiveness, operating independently of the police department. They measure success in terms of valuable hours saved in an investigation or even when an event is happening. The system works on its own network and is firewalled away from the city system. Rapidly changing industry on display The GSX 2025 highlights an industry that is moving toward more intelligent and integrated solutions. The investment in AI is shifting security from reactive monitoring to proactive, automated assistance. Throughout the show floor, the continued embrace of hybrid cloud architectures, coupled with an emphasis on open standards and modernisation roadmaps, suggests a security ecosystem built for agility and future growth.  These trends, and the GSX show itself, collectively underscore the industry's commitment to delivering scalable, next-generation solutions for a changing threat landscape.