Axis Communications: The four most important technology trends for the security sector in 2026

In 2026, this will in many cases involve technological developments that represent a further evolution of trends already observed: artificial intelligence, advances in imaging, improved data processing capacities on end devices („on the edge“) and optimized communication technologies. Even technologies that at first glance still seem a long way off, such as quantum computers, could potentially have a noticeable impact in the near future on industries that adapt to them early on. Another key driver in the wake of increasing networking and digitalization is the growing involvement of IT departments and experts in the field of physical security, which also has a strong influence on purchasing decisions in this area.

„The technology trends we have identified for 2026 clearly show how rapidly the security sector is evolving and diversifying. In particular, the influence of IT on strategic decisions is growing rapidly, and with it the need to understand security solutions as an integral part of a larger digital ecosystem that includes cybersecurity,“ says Tobias Metsch, Regional Director Middle Europe at Axis Communications. „At the same time, we at Axis are thinking far beyond the coming year: innovation does not happen in isolation, but through dialogue. That's why we listen carefully to our customers and partners, understand their challenges, and work together to develop solutions that improve security, operational efficiency, and business intelligence in the long term.“

The four trends identified by Axis Communications include:

1. «Ecosystem First» is becoming established as a central guiding principle for decision-making.

The principle of «ecosystem first» is increasingly shaping decision-making processes in the field of security technology and reflects the growing influence of IT departments and experts on these processes. Instead of selecting isolated security solutions, companies are increasingly turning to integrated total solutions that seamlessly connect devices, sensors, and analysis functions.

This approach enables more efficient configuration and management, strengthens long-term support throughout the entire product lifecycle, and ensures faster and more scalable deployment of appropriate solutions. Modern security strategies and investments are therefore increasingly prioritizing the ecosystem approach.

2. Continuous development of hybrid architectures

Hybrid architectures are becoming increasingly popular as technological advances in edge and cloud computing make pure on-premise solutions less attractive. Modern, AI-powered network cameras now have significantly higher computing power and image quality to generate higher-quality metadata. In addition, more and more analysis tasks can be performed directly on the device („on the edge“), while cloud resources provide the necessary analytical power to comprehensively evaluate ever-growing amounts of data and thus gain business-relevant insights – tasks that were previously reserved for local servers.

Although on-premise components such as network video recorders continue to play an important role in this context and will remain predominant for the foreseeable future, the greatest added value increasingly lies in combining edge devices with cloud resources, as they offer a higher level of performance and reliable data integrity at the same time.

3. The growing importance of edge computing

Edge computing continues to gain importance, which is also directly related to the further development of hybrid architectures. As long as hybrid systems relied on a combination of edge, cloud, and server resources, the potential of edge AI was not always fully exploited, as local servers took on many tasks and slowed down the shift to the edge. This is now set to change fundamentally: improved AI functions directly on the devices mean that companies are making more conscious and targeted decisions about where to use AI and which analyses should take place at the edge and which in the cloud. Modern cameras and a growing variety of edge AI-enabled sensors are increasing both efficiency and effectiveness.

Data processing at the edge provides immediately usable business and metadata about objects and scenes. This information forms the basis for scalable functions such as intelligent video searches or system-wide analyses. Each additional edge component increases the available computing power and allows the overall performance of the system to grow particularly efficiently with each new device.

In addition, previous reservations about edge computing are becoming less and less relevant. Today's edge devices feature robust integrated cybersecurity functions such as secure boot and signed operating systems, thereby actively contributing to strengthening overall system security.

4. Mobile video security is experiencing growth

Mobile video security solutions are currently experiencing rapid growth, driven by technological and commercial factors that are significantly expanding their potential applications: Improved connectivity, remote access, and edge AI enable the flexible use of modern network cameras in mobile application scenarios—from public spaces and construction sites to large events.

Technological advances in energy management significantly reduce the energy consumption of devices without compromising performance, making the use of battery storage and renewable energies feasible in such application scenarios. In addition, official approvals for mobile video security solutions are often easier to obtain than those for fixed installations. This enables comprehensive security even in locations where the deployment of security personnel is difficult.

For more information on Axis Communications' technology trends for the security sector in 2026, please visit here.

Source: Axis Communications