Example of a new AXIS P32 dome camera in outdoor use.

The proven AXIS P32 Series has been completely redesigned for modern security solutions. The new models are based on the powerful ARTPEC-9 SoC and now deliver high-resolution video up to 5 MP (up to 8 MP in some variants) with outstanding image quality. Thanks to Lightfinder 2.0, Forensic WDR and OptimizedIR, the cameras work reliably even in poor light and total darkness. The integration of ARTPEC-9 greatly accelerates processing directly on the camera: complex AI analyses run directly at the edge, reducing the computing load and latency of central servers. At the same time, the cameras feature advanced security features such as Axis Edge Vault (hardware cryptographic storage) with FIPS 140-3 Level 3 certification for key management.

ARTPEC-9: New video SoC for efficient compression and AI

The new ARTPEC-9 chipset is at the heart of the camera architecture. It extends the proven Axis design with significantly more powerful video and AI capabilities. For example, H.264 video encoding with ARTPEC-9 achieves around 20% more efficiency compared to the previous SoC, and the additional support for the licence-free AV1 codec reduces data requirements by a further 20%. Overall, the new compression technology enables significantly lower bandwidth and storage requirements without compromising image quality.

The ARTPEC-9’s performance data also includes a dramatically improved AI accelerator: video analytics performance is increased by a factor of 3, and graphics performance is doubled compared to previous SoC generations. This enables complex deep learning applications to be run directly on the camera. Axis emphasises that these hardware upgrades not only make real-time analytics much more efficient, but also cloud-based video solutions (remote recordings, IoT streaming), for example because AV1 scales network traffic in cloud scenarios.

Key innovations in ARTPEC-9:

• AV1 support: For the first time, an AXIS network camera offers the AV1 codec for highly compressed video streams.
• H.264/H.265 optimisation: Up to 20% better efficiency with H.264; in combination with AV1, approximately 40% less data volume.
• AI performance: Real-time video analytics – three times higher object detection performance and double GPU speed.
• Cyber security: Hardware security through Axis Edge Vault (FIPS 140-3 Level 3) and Secure Boot protects the device and updates.

More efficient video compression with AV1 and Zipstream

The combination of ARTPEC-9 and Axis’ proven Zipstream technology significantly reduces bandwidth and storage requirements. Axis reports that AV1 can deliver a further 20% reduction in bitrate in practice, on top of the 20% achieved with H.264 optimisation. With this ‘cloud-friendly’ encoding, users can archive high-resolution recordings for longer while simultaneously streaming live video over the network without overloading the line.

Key facts about video compression:

• For the first time, AXIS network cameras support the open AV1 codec, which is specifically designed for efficient transmission at low bit rates.
• In combination with Zipstream (H.264/H.265), AV1 further reduces the data stream, significantly reducing bandwidth and storage requirements while maintaining image quality.
• Lower network costs and longer recording times: Less traffic means greater cost efficiency for cloud and local video management systems.

Integrated AI analytics on the camera

All new P32 models feature an integrated deep learning processor (DLPU). This allows advanced AI applications to be implemented directly on the camera without the need for separate servers. The cameras thus deliver intelligent video and audio data right at the source. AXIS Object Analytics is pre-installed in every P32 camera: it automatically detects, classifies, tracks and counts people, vehicles and vehicle types. A built-in audio interface also enables the use of AXIS Audio Analytics (on compatible models) to detect things like screams, shouts or changes in volume.

Thanks to the ARTPEC‑9-based DLPU, P32 cameras process analysis scripts significantly faster than before. The improved processing unit allows smaller objects to be detected and actions to be triggered earlier. In practice, this means, for example, that AXIS Object Analytics can count people and vehicles directly at the camera or classify their behaviour. Since the analyses run directly in camera mode, there is no additional load on the network or server.

AXIS Image Health Analytics

Another new feature is AXIS Image Health Analytics. This feature continuously monitors whether the camera view is technically sound. If a problem occurs – for example, if the image is obscured by obstacles, the camera is turned or an object is placed in front of the lens – the camera automatically sends an alarm. This ensures that security personnel can respond immediately if image quality suffers. In practice, this means that the camera automatically detects deviations (e.g. obstructed, underexposed or misaligned) and issues an immediate warning. This self-healing feature reduces false alarms and downtime in the surveillance system.

AXIS Live Privacy Shield: real-time data protection

The new dome cameras support AXIS Live Privacy Shield, an AI-powered real-time privacy protection feature. This allows people, license plates or sensitive image areas to be automatically pixelated (blurred) while the camera continues to monitor movements and actions. Axis describes Live Privacy Shield as ‘dynamic privacy masking’, which allows faces or license plates to be obscured in real time. The software is free and runs entirely on the camera, so no additional servers are required. This enables privacy-compliant operation even in sensitive areas, as activities can be monitored without revealing personal details.

Robustness, security and future-proof

Despite their wide range of functions, the P32 dome cameras remain extremely robust: They are vandal-proof and impact-resistant (mostly IK10) and certified as outdoor cameras for a temperature range from -40°C to +50°C. The fully hermetically sealed housings (IP66/67) protect against dust and water. In combination with the new intelligent functions, the series is ‘future-proof’: Axis emphasises that its in-house chip development and cyber protection measures such as Secure Boot and Axis Edge Vault give it complete control over the hardware. The P32 series delivers stable performance over the long term, combining proven Axis quality (image-optimising technologies such as Lightfinder 2.0 and WDR) with the latest innovations in video analytics and efficiency.

The new AXIS P32 camera series combines classic Axis reliability with state-of-the-art technology. The ARTPEC-9 SoC delivers significantly higher performance and more efficient video compression, while the integrated deep learning processor enables sophisticated AI analytics directly at the network edge. Features such as Image Health Analytics and Live Privacy Shield improve operational reliability and data privacy. Overall, the P32 dome cameras offer more security, efficiency and future-proofing for professional surveillance solutions.

Sources: Manufacturer information from Axis Communications on ARTPEC-9 and the P32 series.