Market Overview
The Global
Infrared Sensors Market is forecasted to reach
USD 804.2 million by the end of 2024 and grow to
USD 2,351.4 million in 2033, with a
CAGR of 12.2%.
Infrared sensor is a device that identifies infrared radiation emitted or reflected by objects. It has a wide range of applications, including temperature measurement, proximity detection, night vision, and remote controls, utilizing the heat signatures produced by objects to deliver information or facilitate control functions. They are essential in various fields, including automotive, industrial automation, and consumer electronics. Their ability to function in low-light conditions enhances their versatility & reliability in numerous applications.
The US Infrared Sensor Market
The US Infrared Sensor Market is projected to reach USD 263.1 million by the end of 2024 and grow substantially to an expected USD 698.1 million market by 2033 at an anticipated CAGR of 11.5 percent.
U.S. is expected to account for the largest share of the North American market, driven by substantial investments in the defense, aerospace, and consumer electronics sectors, which are major users of infrared sensor technologies.
This region’s advanced healthcare industry and strict regulatory framework promote the use of infrared sensors in medical applications and safety systems. The U.S. market leadership is bolstered by its strong research and development infrastructure, which encourages ongoing innovation and technological progress in infrared sensor capabilities.
Key Takeaways
- Market Growth: The global infrared sensors market is projected to grow by USD 1,455.9 million, with a CAGR of 12.2%.
- Market Definition: Infrared sensors detect infrared radiation, converting it into electrical signals to measure heat or motion.
- Type Analysis: Near Infrared is expected to account for the largest revenue share of 43.2% based on type, by 2024.
- Work Mechanism Analysis: Active Mechanism is expected to account for the largest revenue share of 60.1%, by 2024.
- Application Analysis: Motion Sensing is likely to lead the market with the highest revenue share of 31.2% based on application by 2024.
- End User Analysis: Aerospace and defense are predicted to dominate the market in terms of end users, accounting for the largest revenue of 28.7% by 2024.
- Regional Analysis: North America is expected to lead the global infrared sensors market with a market share of 38.9% by 2024.
Use Cases
- Thermal Imaging: Infrared sensors are extensively used in thermal imaging cameras to detect heat emitted by objects which identifies heat loss in buildings, insulation deficiencies, and moisture issues.
- Motion Detection: Passive infrared (PIR) sensors can detect motion by sensing changes in infrared radiation caused by moving objects, such as people or animals.
- Environmental Monitoring: Certain infrared sensors can detect gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) by measuring their unique absorption spectra. This is essential in industries like oil and gas, as well as environmental protection.
- Automotive Applications: Infrared sensors help vehicles maintain a safe distance from others by detecting the speed and distance of nearby vehicles.
Market Dynamic
Drivers
Growing Demand in Consumer ElectronicsInfrared sensors are widely used in the consumer electronics industry due to the rise of smart devices and advancements in technology. These sensors are used in devices such as tablets, smartphones, and smart home equipment, enabling functionalities like proximity sensing, gesture recognition, and ambient light adjustment. The demand is further amplified by the increasing adoption of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies, where infrared sensors enhance user interactions and create more immersive experiences.
Role of Infrared Sensors in Energy Efficiency
Infrared sensors are also vital for promoting energy-efficient designs by optimizing power consumption based on user proximity and environmental conditions. As consumers increasingly favor interconnected and intelligent devices, the integration of infrared sensors is becoming widespread across various categories. This trend highlights the growing importance of these sensors in enhancing functionality and sustainability in modern technology.
Restraints
Impact of Import and Export Regulations
The increasingly stringent import and export regulations for infrared cameras are a significant factor hindering market growth. These regulations, often implemented for safety, security, and environmental reasons, can lead to delays and increased costs for manufacturers and distributors. Compliance with varying international standards complicates the supply chain, affecting the timely availability of infrared cameras in different markets.
Impact of Distance on Data Accuracy
The infrared sensor market faces challenges during the forecast period due to reduced data accuracy as the distance between the detector and the object increases. Additionally, the increasing availability of alternative technologies may further impact the market. These factors could hinder the effectiveness and reliability of infrared sensors, making it essential for manufacturers to address these limitations and explore innovative solutions to maintain competitiveness.
Opportunities
Growth in IoT Applications
The increasing adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies presents a significant opportunity for the infrared sensors market. As smart devices become more prevalent in various sectors, such as healthcare, automotive, and smart homes, the demand for infrared sensors that can enhance connectivity and improve data collection is rising. Infrared sensors are critical in applications like occupancy detection, temperature monitoring, and environmental sensing, making them essential for developing smart systems.
Technological Advancements and Miniaturization
Continuous advancements in infrared sensor technology are also fueling innovation and expanding the range of applications. Improvements in sensitivity, resolution, and integration capabilities improve the functionality of these sensors. Emerging technologies, including multispectral and hyperspectral imaging, further augment the capabilities of infrared sensors for specialized uses, which drives the growth of the market.
Trends
Miniaturization of Infrared Sensors
A significant trend in the infrared sensors market is the miniaturization of sensors, fueled by the increasing demand for compact and lightweight solutions in diverse applications. Advances in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and nanotechnology have facilitated the development of smaller, more efficient infrared sensors, which in turn is contributing to the growth of the market.
Increased Use in Healthcare Applications
The healthcare sector is increasingly adopting infrared sensors for various applications, including non-contact temperature measurement, respiratory monitoring, and diagnostics. This trend is likely to continue, as healthcare providers seek to enhance patient safety and streamline diagnostics through innovative infrared sensing technologies.
Research Scope and Analysis
By Type
Near Infrared is expected to dominate the infrared sensors market with a revenue share of 43.2% in 2024, due to their versatility & effectiveness in many applications. It operates within the 0.75 to 1.4 µm wavelength range & offers superior detection capabilities in low-light and outdoor environments. It is widely used in the automotive, surveillance, & consumer electronics industries.
Near-infrared can detect heat without physical contact which allows them to function in harsh environments, boosting their appeal in industrial applications. It provides precise data for smartphone facial recognition and gesture control, which further drives their adoption. It is used in healthcare for non-invasive imaging techniques like pulse oximetry & spectroscopy. These are adopted in fiber optic communication and quality control within manufacturing has bolstered their market leadership.
Meanwhile, the Far Infrared (FIR) segment is projected to experience the fastest growth, with a high CAGR during the forecast period, due to its advanced capabilities in temperature measurement & thermal imaging. FIR sensors are increasingly adopted in healthcare, automotive, & consumer electronics, which are used for functions like night vision, non-contact temperature monitoring, & thermal cameras.
By Working Mechanism
Active Mechanism is predicted to dominate the active infrared sensor market with a revenue share of 60.1% in 2024, due to its ability to deliver precise and reliable measurements compared to passive systems. These sensors emit their own infrared light and analyze the reflection, which ensures accurate detection even in low-light conditions. Active mechanism is extensively employed in applications like security systems, industrial automation, and gesture recognition in consumer electronics.
The growing demand for advanced security & automation solutions has significantly contributed to the global adoption of active sensors, reinforcing their market dominance. These mechanisms are highly effective in applications like motion detection, distance measurement, & object recognition, making them ideal for use in industries such as automotive, security, & consumer electronics.
It possesses self-emitting feature that ensure reliable performance in low-light or complete darkness, which is critical for applications like Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), night vision, & security systems. It offers greater flexibility in integration with smart technologies, boosting their adoption across multiple sectors. On the other hand, passive infrared (PIR) sensors work by detecting infrared radiation emitted by objects without producing their own.
It is used in energy-efficient applications like occupancy detection, lighting control, & basic security systems. Increasing demand for smart home technologies & energy-saving solutions has fueled the adoption of PIR sensors, with technological advancements further enhancing their reliability & sensitivity.
By Application
Motion Sensing is predicted to dominate the infrared sensors market with a revenue share of 31.2% in 2024, due to its global application in security systems, home automation, and consumer electronics.
Infrared sensors detect movement and trigger responses such as lighting, alarms, and automated home controls to provide both commercial and residential security solutions. Smart home devices combined with the increased focus on safety and energy efficiency have drastically fueled demand for infrared motion-detecting sensors, further driving up demand.
Industries including automotive, healthcare and consumer electronics are increasingly adopting motion-sensing infrared sensors into safety features, health monitoring programs, and gesture-based controls for added protection and ease of control. Gas and fire detection has quickly become one of the largest applications for infrared sensors due to their importance for industrial safety and compliance purposes. Infrared sensors provide effective gas leak and fire detection services in industries including oil & gas, manufacturing, and residential safety systems.
Due to strict safety regulations and awareness surrounding accident prevention, demand in this sector is growing significantly. Installation of these sensors into factories, refineries, and homes to enhance safety measures has fueled significant interest, while advancements in infrared sensor technology has increased their sensitivity and accuracy making them suitable for gas/fire detection applications.
By End User
Aerospace and defense segment is predicted to dominate in the infrared sensors market with the largest revenue share at 28.7% in 2024, due to the critical role infrared sensors play in surveillance, targeting, & navigation systems. These sensors are famous for night vision, missile guidance, & thermal imaging, which improves situational awareness & operational efficiency in defense applications. Governments and defense organizations have significantly invested in upgrading advanced sensor technologies, driving strong demand.
In addition, the integration of infrared sensors in unmanned aerial vehicles & other advanced aerospace technologies has further reinforced their dominance in this sector. Meanwhile, healthcare is predicted to be the second-largest end user of infrared sensors market, due to its applications in medical diagnostics & patient monitoring. IR sensors allow non-invasive temperature measurements, important for detecting fevers and monitoring patients' health conditions.
These sensors are used in imaging techniques, like thermal imaging & IR spectroscopy, to enhance diagnostic accuracy. The rising trends of telemedicine & remote monitoring solutions further accelerate the adoption of infrared sensors in healthcare, ensuring patient safety & improved outcomes. Infrared sensors are widely applied in medical fields such as thermography, pulse oximetry, & blood glucose monitoring due to rising demand for advanced, and patient-friendly healthcare solutions.
The Infrared Sensors Market Report is segmented on the basis of the following
By Type
- Near Infrared (NIR)
- Infrared
- Far Infrared (FIR)
By Working Mechanism
By Application
- Motion Sensing
- Gas & Fire Detection
- Temperature Measurement
- Security & Surveillance
- Spectroscopy
- Others
By End User
- Aerospace & Defense
- Healthcare
- Automotive
- Commercial Applications
- Manufacturing
- Oil & Gas
- Others
Regional Analysis
North America is expected to dominate the Infrared Sensors Market with a
revenue share of 38.9% in 2024, due to technological advancements and high adoption rates across many industries in this region. This region is known for its strong research and development capabilities, substantial investment in the defense and aerospace sectors, and a well-established industrial base.
Major companies in the United States and Canada are investing heavily in advanced technologies, resulting in innovative infrared sensor solutions that cater to various applications, including industrial automation, healthcare, and automotive sectors. The rising demand for infrared sensors in the defense and security sectors significantly contributes to the dominance of this region.
Military in this region depends on infrared technology for surveillance, target acquisition, and threat detection necessitates cutting-edge sensor capabilities, further propelling market growth. Furthermore, stringent regulatory standards and the growing use of infrared sensors in automotive safety systems, smart devices, and healthcare have reinforced North America's leading position in the global market.
Europe
- Germany
- The U.K.
- France
- Italy
- Russia
- Spain
- Benelux
- Nordic
- Rest of Europe
Asia-Pacific
- China
- Japan
- South Korea
- India
- ANZ
- ASEAN
- Rest of Asia-Pacific
Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Colombia
- Rest of Latin America
Middle East & Africa
- Saudi Arabia
- UAE
- South Africa
- Israel
- Egypt
- Rest of MEA
Competitive Landscape
Key players in the infrared sensor market are making significant investments in research and development to broaden their product offerings, which will further drive market growth. These companies are also engaging in various strategic initiatives to enhance their global presence. Important developments in the market include the introduction of new products, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, increased investments, and collaborations with other organizations.
To thrive and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market environment, the infrared sensor industry must focus on providing cost-effective solutions. Some key players in this market include FLIR Systems, Inc., Omron Corporation, and Honeywell International Inc. Major players operating in the market are adopting strategies such as innovating their products and services and engaging in mergers and acquisitions to expand the functionality of their product portfolios and maintain competitiveness.
Some of the prominent players in the global infrared sensors market are
- FLIR Systems, Inc.
- Hamamatsu Photonics K.K.
- Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
- Texas Instruments Incorporated
- Raytheon Technologies Corporation
- Honeywell International Inc.
- NXP Semiconductors N.V.
- Teledyne Technologies Incorporated
- Excelitas Technologies Corp.
- Lynred
- Omron Automation
- Vishay Intertechnology, Inc.
- Other Key Players
Recent Development
- In April 2024, Teledyne DALSA, a division of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated specializing in machine vision, introduced the radiometric version of its long-wave infrared camera platform, MicroCalibir. This platform delivers precise temperature measurements within +/-2°C or +/-2%, making it suitable for applications such as security, industrial process monitoring, and search and rescue operations.
- In October 2023, Omron Automation, a provider of automation solutions, launched its SWIR camera series, which employs short-wave infrared technology to tackle common manufacturing issues. This innovation offers superior data and image capture compared to traditional cameras.
- In February 2023, Hamamatsu Photonics released its InAsSb photovoltaic detector (P16702-011MN), featuring a preamplifier that enhances sensitivity to mid-infrared light up to 11 micrometers. This detector is an excellent option for portable gas analyzers.
- In October 2022, Tactical Air Support Inc. collaborated with Lockheed Martin to conduct initial flight tests of TacIRST™, a long-range infrared search-and-track sensor (IRST) embedded in aircraft. This testing marked the first use of TacIRST on Tactical Air's F-5 Advanced Tiger fighter, advancing its joint development program and supporting U.S. Air Force and Navy adversary contracts.
- In December 2022, Leonardo DRS began low-rate initial production of third-generation FLIR sensors for the U.S. Army. The FLIR Dewar Cooler Bench (DCB) long-range sensor will enhance the conversion of infrared radiation into video images, improving range and resolution for situational awareness, particularly in challenging battlefield or weather conditions.
Report Details
| Report Characteristics |
| Market Size (2024) |
USD 804.2 Mn |
| Forecast Value (2033) |
USD 2,351.4 Mn |
| CAGR (2024-2033) |
12.2% |
| Historical Data |
2018 – 2023 |
| The US Market Size (2024) |
USD 263.1 Mn |
| Forecast Data |
2025 – 2033 |
| Base Year |
2023 |
| Estimate Year |
2024 |
| Report Coverage |
Market Revenue Estimation, Market Dynamics, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and etc. |
| Segments Covered |
By Type (Near Infrared, Infrared, and Far Infrared), By Working Mechanism (Active, and Passive), By Application (Motion Sensing, Gas & Fire Detection, Temperature Measurement, Security & Surveillance, Spectroscopy, and Others), By End User (Aerospace & Defense, Healthcare, Automotive, Commercial Applications, Manufacturing, Oil & Gas, and Other) |
| Regional Coverage |
North America – The US and Canada; Europe – Germany, The UK, France, Russia, Spain, Italy, Benelux, Nordic, & Rest of Europe; Asia- Pacific– China, Japan, South Korea, India, ANZ, ASEAN, Rest of APAC; Latin America – Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, Rest of Latin America; Middle East & Africa – Saudi Arabia, UAE, South Africa, Turkey, Egypt, Israel, & Rest of MEA
|
| Prominent Players |
FLIR Systems, Inc., Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Murata Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Texas Instruments Incorporated; Raytheon Technologies Corporation, Honeywell International Inc., NXP Semiconductors N.V., Teledyne Technologies Incorporated; Excelitas Technologies Corp., Lynred, Omron Automation, Vishay Intertechnology, Inc., and Other Key Players |
| Purchase Options |
We have three licenses to opt for: Single User License (Limited to 1 user), Multi-User License (Up to 5 Users) and Corporate Use License (Unlimited User) along with free report customization equivalent to 0 analyst working days, 3 analysts working days and 5 analysts working days respectively. |
Frequently Asked Questions
The Global Infrared Sensors Market size is estimated to have a value of USD 804.2 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 2,351.4 billion by the end of 2033.
North America is expected to be the largest market share for the Global Infrared Sensors Market with a share of about 38.9% in 2024.
Some of the major key players in the Global Infrared Sensors Market are FLIR Systems, Inc., Omron Corporation, and Honeywell International Inc., and many others.
The market is growing at a CAGR of 12.2 percent over the forecasted period.
The Global US Infrared Sensors Market size is estimated to have a value of USD 263.1 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 698.1 million by the end of 2033.