Axis devices have developed into incredibly advanced visual sensors. The powerful capabilities of Axis devices, including edge-based deep learning processing, will increase the incentive to run applications, partially or entirely, on the edge. ACAP is a development platform for software-based solutions and systems built for Axis devices. It’s designed to allow developers to develop applications that unlock new opportunities for computer vision applications, advanced video analytics, custom integrations, and specialized monitoring functions across many different industries.
As a developer, you can contribute to the wide range of commercially available applications as well as benefit from the large market of Axis devices. You can develop applications for a wide range of use cases that address customer specific needs that can’t be solved with off-the-shelf products. For instance, security and safety applications that improve surveillance systems and facilitate investigation, business intelligence applications that improve business efficiency, and product feature plug-ins that add value beyond the Axis product’s core functionality.
Applications can interface with AXIS OS through various methods that offers high performance by integrating closely with AXIS OS and hardware. The primary methods are through the VAPIX network interface, detailed in VAPIX Library, and through the C libraries included in the ACAP Software Development Kit (SDK). Other methods, such as MQTT and webhooks, are also available for integration. Axis offers digital onboarding with access to SDK, online documentation, application examples for all APIs, and tutorials hosted on well-known developer platforms.
Get the latest information and all the documentation you need to start developing ACAP applications on Axis GitHub page.
See how ACAP applications are already being used by customers who have unlocked new opportunities for computer vision applications.
Find information such as SoC details, chip and compute capabilities (MLPU/DLPU), and flash and RAM for specific products in the product selector. Always make sure that you are using the latest device software for your product.
You will find answers to frequently asked question to help you get started with ACAP below. A collection of curated ACAP application development questions and their answers can be found in the ACAP SDK documentation.
ACAP is an open application platform developed by Axis Communications that allows developers to create and deploy custom applications on Axis network cameras and other AXIS OS based products. These applications can enhance camera functionality and enable smart surveillance & IoT solutions.
ACAP is supported by most Axis products. Consult the product selector at axis.com to see if ACAP is supported for your product (Product Specification: System Integration / API / AXIS Camera Application Platform).
Developers can create C/C++ applications using the SDK, which the tools and APIs necessary for development.
The ACAP SDK to build applications are available for free.
Deploying ACAP applications on Axis devices may require a license, depending on the application and deployment scale. Please check the licensing details on the Axis website or contact Axis support for more information.
Yes, developers can commercialize their ACAP applications. You may distribute your application independently or potentially partner with Axis Communications, subject to their terms and policies.
Axis provides technical support for ACAP development through its developer community, online documentation, and dedicated support channels. You can access these resources on axis.com.
Security is paramount in ACAP development. Applications should adhere to best security practices, including data encryption and regular updates to address vulnerabilities.
Axis regularly updates ACAP to ensure compatibility with new devices and new features in AXIS OS. ACAP is forward compatible, meaning new minor versions of AXIS OS will be compatible with an ACAP application that was built for a prior version.