In 1984, Michael Carlson, Martin Gran, and Kate Beldworth founded Axis with the goal of changing the way people use and think about digital devices. This is the beginning of our commitment to creating a smart and secure world. At the time, the idea of using network technology to connect devices (initially network printers, storage, and scanners) and make them smart was new. We called it ThinServer technology. Today it is known as the Internet of Things (IoT).
We decided early on to work only with open standards and to avoid proprietary protocols to increase scalability and cost savings on equipment - and power consumption. We also knew from the beginning that to scale innovation and solve challenges Complex, two minds are better than one. So we created a two-tier hardware distribution model for the entire portfolio based on openness and loyalty. And we continued to create programs and associations for technical and sales partnerships, sometimes even open to competitors.
In 1996 we came up with the idea of connecting a camera to a network. We launched the world's first network camera AXIS Neteye 200. From then on, people with an internet connection could see what was going on anywhere in the world. And for those who already have a lot of CCTV systems installed, we've created network encoders so they can access the latest IP technology.
While we were developing our first network cameras, there was no market for buying image processing chipsets. We made our strategic choice to design and adapt it for video security purposes.
Axis Real-Time Image Encoder (ARTPEC) was born and can optimize image processing, compression, video analysis, and network features. Using our chipset, we have been able to control the light and current in our products.
Our AXIS 2100, the first network camera to use ARTPEC-1, was revolutionary today as embedded Linux because of the completely new built-in operating system embedded in the operating system. To enable fast and efficient portfolio development, we decided to eliminate proprietary RTOS (real-time operating system) and use μClinux, which we think is good for Axis growth. The AXIS 2100 was the world's first mass-produced product to use embedded Linux, helping us set a new, consistent standard for our product range.
Leadership of the IP-based CCTV industry
Network video offers many digital benefits in the security market, such as higher image quality, remote accessibility, ease of integration, scalability, event management, and analytics. However, like any disruptive technology, adoption takes time and effort. We focused on three main areas.
We have developed the largest portfolio in the market so that we can meet existing needs as much as possible. We continue to add new product categories such as:
We continue with PTZ cameras, outdoor cameras, thermal cameras, panoramic cameras, modular cameras, indoor cameras, encryption servers, VMS, video analytics, and more.
We created a dedicated app for software developers with all the support to simplify their integration. Five years after its launch, 400 companies joined the app, and Axis soon became the most integrated brand of network video products. We were also the first company to run third-party applications on our network video products.
We shared our knowledge and disseminated information about the benefits of network video through a comprehensive training program including training services, online courses, guides, customer references, TCO calculations, and more.
Annually, more than 2,000 partners participate in our training around the world.
In the early 2000s, with the installation of more than 1,000,000 network video products, we took a deeper look at how our products integrate into video solutions and how they interact with other security systems.
This new mission has made us a leading expert in cybersecurity for network surveillance systems. We strive to support our customers in assessing risks and consequences so that we can take appropriate action to protect their infrastructure and data.
In our final development phase, Canon made a public offering to Axis shareholders and in 2015 acquired a majority stake. Axis continues to operate as an independent company with a focus on maintaining and strengthening its operations. Together with Canon, we work in a systematic and focused way to address sustainability risks and raise awareness.