Axis, Bosch and Sony announce Open Network Video Interface Forum (ONVIF)

  • Announcement of ONVIF as the global open forum for the standardization of network video interfaces
  • Launch of ONVIF web site at www.onvif.org

In May 2008, Axis Communications, Bosch Security Systems and Sony Corporation announced their cooperation to create a global open forum for the development of a standard network interface for network video products. Today the forum is introduced as ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum). By creating an independent, nonprofit organization the three founding members ensure the openness needed to develop an open industry standard. Interested parties may register to participate via the web site at www.onvif.org. The site provides information about the benefits of a global standard and answers to frequently asked questions.

ONVIF is committed to accelerating the adoption of network video in the security market through a global open interface standard. The standard will define a common protocol for the exchange of information (such as device discovery, live video, audio, metadata and control information) between network video devices.

The ONVIF interface will provide interoperability between network video products regardless of manufacturer. It will become even easier for end users, integrators, consultants and manufacturers to take advantage of the possibilities offered by network video, resulting in more cost-effective and flexible solutions, expanded market opportunities and reduced risk.

Spokespersons for the three founding members Axis, Bosch and Sony are available in their respective booths at ASIS 2008 in Atlanta, USA. ONVIF will be officially open for membership at Security 2008 in Essen, Germany where the forum will be represented with its own dedicated booth.

Contact persons for press inquiries:
Axis Communications
Margareta Lantz, Investor Relations amp; Corporate Communications Manager
Phone: +46 46 272 18 00, E-mail: pressoffice@axis.com
www.axis.com

Bosch Security Systems, Inc.
Anne Insero, 130 Perinton Parkway, Fairport, NY, 14450 , USA
Phone: +1(585)678-3152, E-mail: Anne.Insero@us.bosch.com
www.boschsecurity.us

Sony Corporation
Corporate Communications
Tel: +81-3-6748-2200 , FAX: +81-3-6748-2061
www.sony.net

About Axis Communications
Axis is an IT company offering network video solutions for professional installations. The company is the global market leader in network video, driving the ongoing shift from analog to digital video surveillance. Axis products and solutions focus on security surveillance and remote monitoring, and are based on innovative, open technology platforms.

Axis is a Swedish-based company, operating worldwide with offices in more than 20 countries and cooperating with partners in more than 70 countries. Founded in 1984, Axis is listed on the OMX Nordic Exchange, under the ticker AXIS. For more information about Axis, please visit our website at www.axis.com.

About Bosch
The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. In the areas of automotive and industrial technology, consumer goods, and building technology, some 271,000 associates generated sales of 46.3 billion euros in fiscal 2007. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its more than 300 subsidiaries and regional companies in roughly 50 countries. This worldwide development, manufacturing, and sales network is the foundation for further growth. Each year, Bosch spends more than 3 billion euros for research and development, and applies for over 3,000 patents worldwide. The company was set up in Stuttgart in 1886 by Robert Bosch (1861-1942) as "Workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering."

The special ownership structure of Robert Bosch GmbH guarantees the entrepreneurial freedom of the Bosch Group, making it possible for the company to plan over the long term and to undertake significant upfront investments in the safeguarding of its future. Ninety-two percent of the share capital of Robert Bosch GmbH is held by Robert Bosch Stiftung GmbH, a charitable foundation. The majority of voting rights are held by Robert Bosch Industrietreuhand KG, an industrial trust. The entrepreneurial ownership functions are carried out by the trust. The remaining shares are held by the Bosch family and by Robert Bosch GmbH. Additional information can be accessed at www.bosch.com.

About Sony Corporation
Sony Corporation is a leading manufacturer of audio, video, game, communications, key device and information technology products for the consumer and professional markets. With its music, pictures, computer entertainment and on-line businesses, Sony is uniquely positioned to be the leading electronics and entertainment company in the world. Sony recorded consolidated annual sales of approximately $70 billion for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2007. Sony Global Web Site: http://www.sony.net/