The global infrared sensor market size was estimated at USD 711.4 million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 1,516.4 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 12.2% from 2024 to 2030. Infrared sensors are specialized devices designed to detect infrared radiation, which is either emitted or reflected by objects. These sensors play a critical role in capturing heat signatures and converting them into meaningful data or control signals.

Infrared sensors have diverse applications across various fields. They are commonly used for temperature measurement, proximity sensing, night vision technologies, and remote control systems. By detecting the infrared radiation naturally emitted from objects, these sensors provide essential information or enable control functions without direct contact. The market expansion is largely propelled by growing demand in several key sectors, including consumer electronics, the automotive industry, and healthcare, where the sensors contribute to improved functionality and innovation.

Within the consumer electronics sector, the demand for infrared sensors is notably rising. This surge is driven by the widespread adoption of smart devices and continuous technological advancements. Infrared sensors have become indispensable components in products such as tablets, smartphones, and smart home devices, where they facilitate important features like proximity sensing, gesture recognition, and ambient light adjustment. These capabilities enhance user experience by enabling intuitive and responsive interactions with devices.

Moreover, the increasing popularity of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies is further amplifying the need for infrared sensors. In AR and VR applications, these sensors help deliver more immersive and interactive experiences by accurately tracking user movements and environmental changes. Additionally, infrared sensors contribute to energy efficiency in electronic devices by optimizing power usage based on user proximity and surrounding conditions, which aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable and intelligent device design.

Key Market Trends & Insights:

• In 2023, North America secured the largest share of the global infrared sensor market, accounting for 37.1% of the total market revenue. This dominant position underscores the region’s strong industrial base, technological advancements, and widespread adoption of infrared sensor technologies across various sectors. Within North America, the United States emerged as the primary contributor, holding the largest market share within the region. The U.S. market benefits from substantial investments in research and development, a robust consumer electronics industry, and significant demand from automotive and healthcare sectors, which collectively drive the use of infrared sensors.

• When considering market segmentation by type, the near-infrared (NIR) sensors commanded the largest share, representing 41.6% of the market in 2023. Near-infrared sensors are favored for their versatility and efficiency in a wide range of applications, including environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, and consumer electronics, which contributes to their dominant market position.

• Analyzing the market based on the working mechanism of infrared sensors, the active infrared sensor segment led with a market share of 57.8% in 2023. Active infrared sensors operate by emitting infrared radiation and detecting its reflection from objects, enabling precise and reliable detection. This mechanism is widely used in applications such as motion detection, safety systems, and automatic lighting controls, making it the preferred choice in many industries.

• In terms of application, the motion sensing segment held the largest share, accounting for 28.5% of the market in 2023. Motion sensing infrared sensors are extensively used in security systems, automation, and consumer electronics, where their ability to detect movement efficiently and accurately is crucial. This widespread use in various domains contributes significantly to the growth and prominence of the motion sensing segment within the infrared sensor market.

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Market Size & Forecast:

• 2023 Market Size: USD 711.4 Million

• 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 1,516.4 Million

• CAGR (2024-2030): 12.2%

• North America: Largest market in 2023

• Asia Pacific: Fastest growing market

Key Companies & Market Share Insights:

Some of the key companies operating in the global infrared sensor market include industry leaders such as Omron Corporation and FLIR Systems, Inc.

Omron Corporation, through its division Omron Automation, is a prominent player in the industrial automation sector. The company specializes in the development, sale, and servicing of fully integrated automation solutions that encompass a wide range of technologies, including control systems, sensing devices, safety equipment, motion control, vision systems, and robotics. Omron’s innovative technological contributions span across multiple industries such as healthcare, industrial automation, automotive electronics, environmental management, social infrastructure systems, and mechanical components. By leveraging its extensive and diverse portfolio, Omron is able to create comprehensive integrated solutions that enhance manufacturing efficiency, improve operational safety, and support sustainable industrial practices.

In addition to well-established players like Omron and FLIR Systems, Inc., the market also features emerging companies such as Teledyne Technologies Incorporated and Excelitas Technologies Corp., which are steadily gaining ground in the infrared sensor space.

Teledyne Technologies Incorporated focuses on delivering advanced enabling technologies tailored for industrial growth markets that require high reliability and cutting-edge innovation. Its diverse product range includes aircraft information management systems, digital imaging sensors, and monitoring and control instruments designed for marine and environmental applications. Teledyne also manufactures systems and cameras that operate across various spectra, including visible light, infrared, and X-ray, alongside electronic test and measurement equipment, rugged interconnects for harsh environments, and defense electronics as well as satellite communication subsystems. The company operates primarily across North America and Europe, with significant facilities and business operations located in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Western and Northern Europe. This geographical reach supports its role as a key technology provider in the infrared sensor market.

Key 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.

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Conclusion:

The infrared sensor market is experiencing significant growth, driven by technological advancements and increasing demand across various industries. Key applications such as motion sensing, gas and fire detection, and healthcare diagnostics are expanding, with near-infrared sensors leading in both market share and growth rate. Regionally, North America currently holds the largest market share, while the Asia Pacific region is expected to exhibit the fastest growth during the forecast period. This growth is attributed to rapid industrialization, advancements in automotive technologies, and increasing adoption of smart devices and healthcare solutions. Overall, the market is poised for continued expansion, supported by ongoing innovation and diverse applications across various sectors.