InGaAs sensors are a type of sensor primarily used for SWIR imaging, contributing significantly to the development of the short-wave infrared market. The wavelength range of InGaAs sensors covers the typical SWIR band, extending from 550 nm to 2.5 μm. Some area scan InGaAs sensors are subject to ITAR restrictions and can only be used for specific commercial applications with the appropriate licenses.
SWIR imaging has advantages in multiple application fields, including providing high-contrast images in specific environments, handling night illumination and night vision imaging, and identifying colors that are difficult to distinguish in visible light conditions. In some instances, SWIR imaging can penetrate certain materials such as water vapor, fog, and silicon, which facilitates special applications.
SWIR technology will gradually expand to different fields, including consumer electronics and automotive industries.
Starting from 2026, SWIR technology is expected to replace near-infrared (NIR) imagers in flagship smartphones for under-display integration in facial recognition modules. By 2028, this could drive the market size to reach $2.074 billion.
SWIR technology is also expected to be integrated into low-end smartphones and augmented/virtual reality (AR/VR) headsets, to achieve better tracking, 3D sensing, and multispectral imaging performance under outdoor conditions.
In the automotive field, SWIR technology will be used for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), providing vision functions and 3D sensing capabilities in low light and harsh conditions. By 2028, the market size of SWIR in the automotive market could reach $19 million.
Developing compatible optical devices, software, and light sources is key to driving the development of the shortwave infrared market. The precise design and optimization of optical devices ensure efficient light energy collection and transmission. When paired with advanced software, SWIR InGaAs camera technology facilitates rapid data processing and analysis, enhancing the overall user experience. At the same time, efficient and stable light sources, as the core of shortwave infrared technology, continuously innovate and develop to inject vitality into the entire shortwave infrared market. Therefore, continuous investment in research and development, promoting compatibility and upgrades of these key technologies, is crucial for the prosperous development of the short-wave infrared market.
The shortwave infrared market has broad application prospects in multiple fields, and with the growing demands and the continuous emergence of new technologies, the market size of the shortwave infrared industry is expected to continue expanding. The demands and technological innovations from different fields will drive the development of SWIR technology, bringing more opportunities to the shortwave infrared market.
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