In an interview, Axon Enterprise CEO Rick Smith discussed the company’s growth and its transition from a taser manufacturer to a leader in various technologies, including drones and AI, emphasizing the importance of these innovations for public safety. He highlighted the potential for Axon’s technologies to enhance safety in both law enforcement and the private sector, facilitating collaboration between security personnel and local authorities.
In a recent interview, Axon Enterprise CEO Rick Smith discussed the company’s growth and future prospects, particularly in light of a potential second Trump administration. Axon, known for its production of tasers, body cameras, and drones, has seen its stock reach an all-time high, with Wall Street anticipating that the company will benefit from increased funding for law enforcement and safety initiatives. Smith emphasized that regardless of political changes, Axon’s focus on building long-term value has made the business sustainable.
Smith highlighted Axon’s evolution from a taser manufacturer to a leader in various technologies, including body cameras, car cameras, and drones. He noted that the company is now a world leader in counter-drone technology, which is becoming increasingly important for public safety, especially in light of global conflicts like those in Ukraine and the Middle East. The ability to track and intercept drones is seen as crucial for protecting urban areas and large gatherings.
The conversation also touched on the significant opportunities in the drone and robotics sectors. Smith mentioned Axon’s acquisition of Sky Hero, a leader in indoor tactical drones, indicating the company’s commitment to leveraging these technologies for dangerous tasks. He believes that the integration of drones into public safety operations will be transformative, allowing for enhanced security measures in various environments.
Smith elaborated on Axon’s deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) in their products, particularly body cameras. He explained that the cameras are now continuously connected, allowing for real-time data collection and analysis. This advancement has enabled the company to assist police officers in generating reports more efficiently, reducing bureaucratic tasks by about 25%. Smith indicated that this is just the beginning, with plans to launch several more AI-driven services in the future.
Finally, Smith discussed the potential for Axon’s technologies to enhance safety in the private sector. With approximately 800,000 police officers and over 2 million private security personnel in the U.S., there is a growing need for businesses to ensure the safety of their patrons. Axon’s cloud software and sensor network can facilitate collaboration between private security and local law enforcement, providing a comprehensive safety solution for various enterprises, including retail, healthcare, and entertainment venues.