Tech Life Drones with Tasers
Oct 14, 2025
Rick Smith, Founder and CEO of Axon Enterprise, dives into the future of policing technology with a focus on Tasers and drones. He reveals plans for drones equipped with Tasers to enhance first response capabilities. Smith discusses innovations in Taser range, safety measures, and ethical considerations surrounding their use. He also touches on Axon's global collaboration with police forces and the complexities of incorporating new tech. Plus, find out about underwater gliders and the imminent quantum computing revolution!
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Drones As Rapid First Responders
- Axon focuses first on 'drones as first responders' that autonomously launch to assess incidents faster than officers constrained by traffic.
- These drones aim to provide rapid situational awareness rather than immediate armed intervention.
Supervised Weaponized Drones Planned
- Axon envisions drones capable of carrying taser-type nonlethal weapons with supervisory real-time authorization to prevent misuse.
- Smith says weapon activation would require authenticated, accountable approval and recorded video of every use.
Engage Rather Than Boycott For Reform
- Rick Smith argues selling nonlethal tools and body cameras can aid police reform even in countries with problematic human rights histories.
- He suggests engagement and oversight are preferable to withholding technology that could reduce lethal force.