Infrared LED Market By Spectral Range (Short-wave Infrared LED, Medium-wave Infrared LED, Long-wave Infrared LED), By Application (Biometrics, Imaging, Lighting, Remote Sensing, Surveillance), By Region, By Competition Forecast & Opportunities 2018-2028F

Market Overview

Global Infrared LED Market has valued at USD681.12 million in 2022 and is anticipated to project robust growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 9.8% through 2028. The global infrared LED (Light Emitting Diode) market is a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector of the electronics industry, driven by a wide range of applications spanning from night vision devices to communication systems and industrial automation. Infrared LEDs emit infrared light in the non-visible spectrum, making them invaluable for applications where traditional visible light sources are not suitable. This overview provides insight into the current landscape of the global infrared LED market.

Infrared LEDs are essential components in surveillance and security systems, enabling night vision cameras and sensors. The growing demand for enhanced security and surveillance solutions, both in commercial and residential settings, is a significant driver of the market.

Infrared LEDs are widely used in consumer electronics, including remote controls, smartphones, and gaming devices. The proliferation of smart home technology and the Internet of Things (IoT) has contributed to increased demand for these components.

In the automotive industry, infrared LEDs play a crucial role in applications such as advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and vehicle interior lighting. The rising integration of infrared technology for safety and comfort features in automobiles is driving market growth. Infrared LEDs find extensive use in industrial automation and manufacturing processes, including object detection, machine vision, and quality control. The pursuit of efficiency and precision in industrial operations has led to higher adoption rates.

Infrared LEDs are integral to various medical devices, such as pulse oximeters and blood glucose monitors. With an aging population and increasing healthcare expenditures, the demand for medical devices incorporating infrared technology is on the rise. Infrared communication technology, often seen in remote control devices, is evolving with the advent of Li-Fi (Light Fidelity) technology. Li-Fi utilizes infrared LEDs to transmit data wirelessly through light, offering high-speed, secure communication solutions.

The infrared LED market is highly competitive, with numerous manufacturers and suppliers globally. This competition can lead to price pressures and the need for continuous innovation to stay competitive. As technology evolves, there is a constant demand for improved performance, higher power efficiency, and miniaturization of infrared LED components. Companies must invest in research and development to meet these evolving demands.

Adherence to regulatory standards and certifications, especially in sectors like healthcare and automotive, is crucial. Ensuring that products meet stringent requirements can be challenging and time-consuming. Global supply chain disruptions, as witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic, can impact the availability of key components, affecting manufacturing and delivery schedules.

Key Market Drivers

Expanding Applications in Consumer Electronics

One of the primary drivers of the global infrared LED market is the expanding range of applications within the consumer electronics sector. IR LEDs are widely used in smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other electronic devices.

Infrared LEDs are integral components in facial recognition systems, enhancing device security and user convenience. They enable devices to accurately identify and authenticate users based on facial features, even in low-light conditions. The growing adoption of facial recognition technology in smartphones and tablets is fueling the demand for IR LEDs.

Infrared LEDs are employed in gesture control systems, allowing users to interact with devices through hand gestures. This technology is used in gaming consoles, smart TVs, and other consumer electronics, providing a more intuitive and immersive user experience.

IR LEDs are used in proximity sensors to detect the presence of nearby objects or users. These sensors enable features like automatic screen dimming during phone calls and touchless gesture-based control, contributing to improved device functionality.

Infrared LEDs are crucial components in ambient light sensors. These sensors adjust screen brightness based on ambient lighting conditions, optimizing power consumption and user comfort. The proliferation of such sensors in smartphones and tablets drives demand for IR LEDs.

As consumer electronics continue to evolve and integrate more advanced features, the demand for IR LEDs is expected to grow. Manufacturers are developing high-performance, compact, and energy-efficient IR LEDs to meet the requirements of these applications, further fueling market expansion.

Surging Demand in Automotive Applications

The automotive industry represents another significant driver of the global infrared LED market. Infrared LEDs find diverse applications in vehicles, particularly in advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and interior automotive technologies.

Infrared LEDs are a critical component of automotive night vision systems, enhancing driver visibility during nighttime driving and in adverse weather conditions. These systems detect infrared radiation emitted by objects, pedestrians, or animals on the road, providing warnings to the driver and improving overall safety.

Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology relies on IR LEDs to measure distances and create high-resolution 3D maps of the vehicle's surroundings. LiDAR is crucial for autonomous vehicles, as it enables them to navigate and avoid obstacles with precision.

Infrared LEDs are used in interior monitoring systems to track driver and passenger activities. These systems can detect driver drowsiness or distraction and trigger alerts or interventions to prevent accidents.

IR LEDs are also employed in infotainment systems, enabling touchless gesture control of in-car multimedia and navigation systems. This hands-free interaction enhances driver convenience and safety.

The increasing emphasis on vehicle safety, comfort, and automation has driven the integration of IR LEDs into automobiles. As automakers continue to adopt ADAS and autonomous driving technologies, the demand for IR LEDs is expected to rise steadily, contributing to market growth.

Healthcare and Biometrics Applications

The healthcare and biometrics sectors are witnessing a surge in demand for IR LEDs, driven by their critical role in various applications. Infrared LEDs are used in medical devices for non-invasive monitoring and diagnostic purposes. They are integrated into pulse oximeters, glucose monitors, and thermometers, enabling accurate measurements and improving patient care.

IR LEDs play a pivotal role in security and surveillance systems. They provide infrared illumination for night vision cameras, enabling clear monitoring in low-light or complete darkness. This is crucial for applications in residential security, commercial surveillance, and industrial facilities.

IR LEDs are essential components in biometric authentication systems, such as iris recognition and vein pattern scanning. These systems are increasingly adopted for access control, identity verification, and security applications.

The growth of wearable health devices, including fitness trackers and smartwatches, has led to increased demand for IR LEDs. These devices use IR LEDs for heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen measurement, and other health-related functions.

As advancements in healthcare technology and biometrics continue to drive innovation, the demand for IR LEDs in these sectors is expected to grow substantially. Manufacturers are focused on developing energy-efficient and high-performance IR LEDs to meet the stringent requirements of healthcare and biometric applications.

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Key Market Challenges

Technological Advancements and Competition

One of the primary challenges in the global infrared LED market is the constant need for technological advancements to stay competitive. Infrared LED technology evolves rapidly, with ongoing efforts to improve performance, efficiency, and functionality. This presents a dual challenge for manufacturers.

Firstly, staying at the forefront of technological innovation requires substantial investments in research and development (R&D). Companies must allocate resources to research new materials, manufacturing techniques, and design improvements to create infrared LEDs that are smaller, more energy-efficient, and emit at specific wavelengths for diverse applications.

Secondly, the market is highly competitive, with numerous players vying for market share. As a result, manufacturers face pricing pressures and must continually optimize production processes to reduce costs. The presence of low-cost competitors, particularly in regions with low labor costs, further intensifies competition.

To address these challenges, companies in the infrared LED market must strike a balance between innovation and cost-efficiency. They need to invest strategically in R&D to develop cutting-edge products while optimizing production processes to maintain competitiveness.

Regulatory and Compliance Challenges

Infrared LED products are subject to various international regulations, standards, and compliance requirements. Meeting these regulations is crucial for market access, but it can be a complex and costly process.

For instance, safety regulations, such as those related to electromagnetic radiation and product safety, must be adhered to. Different regions have their own sets of standards, and manufacturers must navigate this regulatory landscape effectively to ensure that their products meet all necessary requirements.

Furthermore, trade regulations and export controls can impact the global supply chain for infrared LEDs. Export restrictions on specific technologies or products may limit market access, particularly for products with dual-use potential in military and civilian applications.

Companies operating in the infrared LED market must invest in compliance measures, including product testing and certification. This adds to the cost of product development and may result in delays in bringing new products to market.

Market Diversification and Application-specific Challenges

The infrared LED market serves a wide range of applications, from consumer electronics to industrial equipment and defense systems. While this diversity presents opportunities, it also poses challenges related to customization and market diversification.

Each application has unique requirements, including wavelength, power, and packaging. For instance, medical devices may require specific infrared wavelengths for diagnostics and treatment, while automotive applications may demand high-power, robust LEDs for night vision systems. Meeting these diverse needs can be challenging for manufacturers.

Additionally, market diversification means that companies must allocate resources effectively to serve various industry sectors. This requires a deep understanding of each sector's specific requirements and competition dynamics.

Moreover, emerging technologies and trends, such as LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) for autonomous vehicles and 3D sensing for smartphones, introduce new challenges. Manufacturers must adapt to these trends quickly and develop specialized products to remain competitive in these emerging markets.

To address these challenges, companies in the infrared LED market need a strategic approach. They must invest in R&D to develop application-specific solutions, collaborate with partners and customers to understand evolving needs, and continuously monitor industry trends to adapt and innovate accordingly.

Key Market Trends

Growing Demand for Infrared LEDs in Consumer Electronics

One of the prominent trends in the global infrared LED market is the rising demand for these components in consumer electronics. Infrared LEDs are utilized in various consumer devices for applications such as facial recognition, gesture recognition, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR). These technologies rely on IR illumination and sensors to detect and track movements, enhancing user experiences and device functionalities.

Infrared LEDs play a crucial role in facial recognition systems used in smartphones and other consumer gadgets. By emitting infrared light, these LEDs enable accurate facial recognition even in low-light conditions. With the increasing emphasis on device security and user convenience, facial recognition is becoming a standard feature in many smartphones.

Infrared LEDs are integral components in gesture recognition systems found in gaming consoles, smart TVs, and other devices. They enable users to interact with devices through hand movements, making user interfaces more intuitive and engaging. This trend is driving the adoption of IR LEDs in the gaming and entertainment sectors.

The growing popularity of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) applications relies on the tracking of hand movements and head positioning. Infrared LEDs, in combination with IR sensors, enable precise tracking and mapping of real-world movements into the digital realm. As AR and VR applications continue to expand across gaming, education, and training sectors, the demand for IR LEDs is expected to soar.

Automotive Industry Driving Infrared LED Innovation

The automotive industry is a significant driver of innovation in the infrared LED market. Infrared LEDs are used in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), night vision systems, and interior monitoring solutions, contributing to enhanced safety, comfort, and automation in vehicles.

Infrared LEDs are essential components in ADAS, enabling features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and collision avoidance. The increasing focus on vehicle safety and the development of autonomous vehicles are propelling the demand for IR LEDs in this sector.

Infrared LEDs are at the core of automotive night vision systems. These systems help drivers identify pedestrians, animals, and obstacles in low-visibility conditions. As safety concerns and regulatory requirements intensify, the integration of night vision systems in vehicles is expected to rise, driving the demand for IR LEDs.

Interior monitoring systems in vehicles use infrared LEDs to track driver attention, drowsiness, and occupancy detection. These systems are not only crucial for safety but also for personalizing in-car experiences. As the concept of connected and autonomous vehicles evolves, cabin monitoring solutions will become increasingly common.

Infrared LEDs for Healthcare and Wellness Applications

Infrared LEDs are finding growing applications in healthcare and wellness sectors, driven by the need for non-invasive, remote monitoring and diagnostic solutions. The COVID-19 pandemic has also accelerated the adoption of IR-based technologies for temperature screening and infection control.

Temperature Screening: Infrared thermometers and thermal imaging cameras, equipped with IR LEDs, have become essential tools for fever detection and infection control during the pandemic. Even as the pandemic subsides, these technologies are likely to remain vital for public health screening.

Wearable health devices, such as fitness trackers and smartwatches, often incorporate IR LEDs for monitoring heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and sleep patterns. These devices enable users to track their health in real-time and are becoming more sophisticated in their capabilities.

Infrared LEDs are used in medical devices for remote patient monitoring, enabling healthcare providers to collect data on vital signs and other health parameters from a distance. This trend aligns with the broader shift toward telemedicine and home healthcare.

Segmental Insights

Spectral Range Insights

Medium-wave Infrared LED (MWIR LED) technology has secured a significant share in the global Infrared LED market, and its presence continues to grow due to its diverse range of applications and unique capabilities. MWIR LEDs, which emit light in the medium infrared spectrum, typically between 3 to 5 micrometers (μm), offer several advantages that make them highly sought-after components in various industries.

One of the key factors contributing to the substantial market share of MWIR LEDs is their versatility in a wide range of applications. MWIR LEDs are known for their ability to detect and emit thermal radiation, making them indispensable in applications related to thermal imaging, night vision, and security systems. Their capacity to sense heat signatures enables their use in identifying objects, humans, and animals in low-light or adverse environmental conditions, making them crucial in military and defense applications.

In the defense sector, MWIR LEDs are extensively employed in the development of night vision equipment, surveillance systems, and thermal imaging cameras. Their ability to detect temperature variations and thermal contrasts makes them valuable for identifying potential threats and monitoring large areas efficiently. Furthermore, MWIR LEDs can penetrate certain atmospheric conditions, such as haze and fog, providing enhanced visibility in challenging environments.

Moreover, MWIR LEDs find applications in industrial processes, including temperature monitoring, quality control, and equipment diagnostics. These LEDs play a pivotal role in non-contact temperature measurement, allowing for precise monitoring of machinery and processes. In manufacturing and research sectors, MWIR LEDs are indispensable for applications such as material testing and scientific research, where accurate temperature readings are crucial.

In the context of healthcare, MWIR LEDs are used in medical imaging and diagnostic equipment. They aid in the detection of temperature anomalies, enabling early diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions. Additionally, MWIR LEDs are employed in thermal therapy and medical instrumentation, further expanding their presence in the healthcare sector.

MWIR LEDs also contribute significantly to environmental and infrastructure monitoring. They are utilized in meteorological instruments for weather forecasting and environmental monitoring. Furthermore, MWIR LEDs are used in building energy management systems to assess heat loss and insulation efficiency, contributing to energy conservation efforts.

Application Insights

Lighting applications play a significant role in the global infrared LED market, representing a substantial share due to the versatile uses and increasing adoption of infrared LED technology. Infrared LEDs, also known as IR LEDs, are employed in various lighting applications across multiple industries, contributing to their prominence in the market.

Infrared LEDs are extensively utilized in surveillance and security systems. They provide covert and efficient illumination for CCTV cameras, enabling round-the-clock monitoring in both indoor and outdoor environments. Infrared lighting enhances the visibility of surveillance footage during nighttime or low-light conditions. This is crucial for the prevention of theft, vandalism, and unauthorized access, making IR LEDs an integral component of modern security solutions.

Another key application of infrared LEDs is in automotive night vision systems. These systems use IR LEDs to emit invisible infrared light that reflects off objects and is captured by a camera sensor. The sensor then processes this information to create a thermal image, allowing drivers to detect pedestrians, animals, and obstacles on the road even in complete darkness or adverse weather conditions. As vehicle safety standards continue to advance, the integration of infrared LEDs in night vision systems is growing, driving their demand in the automotive sector.

In industrial settings, infrared LEDs find widespread use in machine vision and automation applications. They are employed in cameras and sensors to capture high-contrast images of products and materials for quality control, defect detection, and alignment purposes. The ability of IR LEDs to provide consistent and uniform illumination makes them indispensable for enhancing the precision and accuracy of manufacturing processes. As industries increasingly adopt automation and robotics, the demand for IR LEDs in this sector is on the rise.

Infrared LEDs are integral to gesture recognition technology used in consumer electronics and human-machine interface (HMI) systems. By emitting infrared light and detecting its reflection off a user's hand or gestures, IR LEDs enable touchless control of devices like smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, and smart TVs. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated the adoption of touchless interfaces, spurring the use of IR LEDs in various consumer electronics.

Infrared LEDs have found applications in healthcare for pulse oximetry, a non-invasive method of monitoring oxygen saturation levels in the blood. These LEDs are also used in fingerprint recognition systems, where they illuminate the fingerprint and allow the sensor to capture its unique pattern. The healthcare and biometrics sectors rely on the accuracy and reliability of IR LEDs to provide critical data and enhance security measures.

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Regional Insights

The Asia Pacific region has established itself as a dominant player in the global infrared LED (Infrared Light Emitting Diode) market, consistently holding a significant share in this dynamic and rapidly evolving industry. This prominence can be attributed to a combination of factors that reflect the region's robust manufacturing capabilities, expanding technology sector, and growing demand for IR-based applications across various industries.

The Asia Pacific region has emerged as a manufacturing hub for a wide range of electronic components, including infrared LEDs. Countries such as China, Taiwan, South Korea, and Japan are known for their advanced semiconductor and optoelectronics industries. These countries have invested heavily in research and development, production infrastructure, and skilled labor, making them formidable players in the global IR LED market. This manufacturing prowess allows the region to meet the demand for IR LEDs not only domestically but also for international markets.

The Asia Pacific region boasts a thriving technology sector that continually drives innovation in IR LED applications. This includes the development of cutting-edge consumer electronics, automotive technologies, and healthcare solutions. As the region's technology companies integrate IR LEDs into their products, the demand for these components surges. For instance, leading smartphone manufacturers in the region incorporate IR LEDs for facial recognition and gesture-based controls, further fueling the market's growth.

Infrared LEDs find extensive use in various industries, and the Asia Pacific region is at the forefront of adopting and expanding these applications. The automotive sector in countries like Japan and South Korea utilizes IR LEDs for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and night vision applications. The healthcare industry, driven by the aging population in countries such as Japan, China, and South Korea, leverages IR LEDs for remote patient monitoring and medical devices. Moreover, Asia Pacific countries are increasingly deploying IR-based solutions in security and surveillance systems, as well as in industrial automation and robotics.

The Asia Pacific region is home to some of the world's largest consumer electronics markets. With a burgeoning middle class and rising disposable incomes, consumers in countries like China and India are increasingly adopting smartphones, smartwatches, and other smart devices that incorporate IR LEDs for features like facial recognition and heart rate monitoring. This surge in consumer electronics adoption directly contributes to the region's substantial share in the global IR LED market.

Asian IR LED manufacturers have forged strategic alliances and partnerships with global technology giants, further strengthening their position in the market. Collaborations between Asian semiconductor companies and major consumer electronics brands ensure a consistent supply of high-quality IR LEDs for cutting-edge devices.

Recent Developments

• In February 2021, Showa Denko K.K. (TOKYO: 4004) acquired a 50% stake in AMI Automation, a significant move to expand its presence in the industry.
• In October 2020, DOWA has played a pivotal role in Japan's economic growth by modernizing the nonferrous metals sector. Through diversification into new sectors, it has effectively leveraged its technologies and experiences to drive continuous growth.
• In July 2020, KIOXIA Holdings Corporation, the global leader in memory solutions, announced its forthcoming completion of the acquisition of LITE-ON Technology Corporation's Solid State Drive (SSD) business.

Key Market Players

• ON Semiconductors
• EPILEDS Co. Ltd
• Koninklijke Philips N.V
• OSRAM Opto Semiconductors GmbH
• Epistar Corporation
• NICHIA CORPORATION
• Kingbright Electronic Co., Ltd
• Everlight Electronics Co. Ltd
• Lextar Electronics Corporation
• High Power Lighting Corporation

Report Scope:

In this report, the global infrared LED market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Infrared LED Market, By Spectral Range:

o   Short-wave Infrared LED

o   Medium-wave Infrared LED

o   Long-wave Infrared LED

• Infrared LED Market, By Application:

o   Biometrics

o   Imaging

o   Lighting

o   Remote Sensing

o   Surveillance 

• Global Infrared LED Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Canada

§  Mexico

o   Europe

§  France

§  United Kingdom

§  Italy

§  Germany

§  Spain

o   Asia-Pacific

§  China

§  India

§  Japan

§  Australia

§  South Korea

o   South America

§  Brazil

§  Argentina

§  Colombia

o   Middle East & Africa

§  South Africa

§  Saudi Arabia

§  UAE

§  Turkey

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the global infrared LED market.

Available Customizations:

Global infrared LED market report with the given market data, Tech Sci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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