• In October 2024, Lynred acquired New Imaging Technologies, a provider of shortwave infrared (SWIR) sensors, enhancing its product range to include high-definition SWIR sensors.

• In April 2023, Quantum Imaging launched its next-generation SWIR camera, the MIRA 02Y-E, designed to meet growing demands in machine vision and defense sectors.

The Global Infrared Sensors Market has been segmented by Mounting, Application, Technology and Geography, by mounting type into two primary categories: surface-mount and through-hole mounting. Surface-mount infrared sensors are increasingly preferred due to their compact size and ease of integration into modern electronic systems. These sensors are typically used in consumer electronics, automotive systems, and medical devices. Through-hole mounted sensors, on the other hand, are more common in industrial applications where robust, high-performance sensors are required. They are typically used in more rugged environments such as manufacturing plants, power plants, and defense sectors, where durability and reliability are essential.

In terms of application, infrared sensors are widely used in industries like automotive, healthcare, consumer electronics, industrial, and defense. In automotive applications, infrared sensors contribute to driver assistance systems, night vision, and collision avoidance technologies, enhancing vehicle safety. In healthcare, infrared sensors are used for non-contact temperature monitoring and diagnostic thermal imaging. Consumer electronics, including smartphones and smart home devices, rely on infrared sensors for motion detection, facial recognition, and energy efficiency features. Industrial applications use infrared sensors for monitoring machinery, detecting gas leaks, and ensuring process control in factories. The defense sector also relies heavily on infrared sensors for surveillance, targeting systems, and missile guidance.

Technologically, infrared sensors are divided into thermal infrared sensors, quantum infrared sensors, and diode infrared sensors. Thermal infrared sensors are widely used for temperature sensing, environmental monitoring, and industrial process control due to their ability to detect infrared radiation emitted from objects. Quantum infrared sensors, such as those based on materials like mercury cadmium telluride, are known for their high sensitivity and precision, making them ideal for military, scientific, and high-end industrial applications. Diode infrared sensors, commonly used in basic motion detection, gas sensing, and communication systems, provide a cost-effective solution for many consumer electronics and industrial applications. Geographically, the infrared sensors market is growing in regions like North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, with significant advancements in technology driving adoption across these markets, particularly in automotive, defense, and industrial sectors.

Global Infrared Sensors Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Infrared Sensors Market has been segmented by Mounting, Application, Technology and Geography.

Global Infrared Sensors Market, Segmentation by Mounting

The Global Infrared Sensors Market has been segmented by Mounting into Through-Hole and SMT.

The global infrared sensors market is segmented by mounting type into two main categories: Through-Hole and Surface Mount Technology (SMT). Through-Hole mounting is a traditional method where components are inserted into holes drilled in a printed circuit board (PCB) and soldered in place. This mounting type offers strong mechanical support and is commonly used in high-power applications or where the components need to endure harsh environments. Through-Hole infrared sensors are typically found in industrial, automotive, and military applications due to their durability and reliability.

Surface Mount Technology (SMT) is a more modern and compact method where infrared sensors are mounted directly onto the surface of the PCB without the need for drilling holes. SMT offers benefits like smaller size, higher precision, and the ability to fit more components on a single board, making it ideal for consumer electronics, wearable devices, and portable equipment. SMT-mounted infrared sensors are increasingly used in applications that require miniaturization and high-performance capabilities.

Both mounting types have their distinct advantages depending on the specific requirements of the application. While Through-Hole mounting is still preferred for heavy-duty and high-reliability use cases, SMT is gaining popularity in industries where size reduction and faster production times are critical. The growing demand for compact, efficient, and low-cost infrared sensors in sectors such as automotive, healthcare, and consumer electronics continues to drive the adoption of SMT-based solutions.

Global Infrared Sensors Market, Segmentation by Application

The Global Infrared Sensors Market has been segmented by Application into Commercial, Healthcare, Automotive and Others.

The Global Infrared Sensors Market is segmented by application into several key sectors, each with distinct opportunities and applications for infrared sensor technology.

In the Commercial sector, infrared sensors are widely used for various applications such as motion detection, security systems, and industrial automation. They play a crucial role in smart buildings and home automation, enabling automatic lighting control, occupancy sensing, and energy-efficient HVAC systems. Infrared sensors are also employed in retail settings for people counting, visitor flow analysis, and shelf monitoring, enhancing operational efficiency and customer experience. The commercial sector's adoption of infrared sensors is driven by the demand for smart technologies that improve convenience, energy savings, and overall operational efficiency in diverse commercial environments.

The Healthcare sector utilizes infrared sensors for non-contact temperature measurement, patient monitoring, and medical imaging applications. Infrared thermometers and thermal cameras are employed for fever screening, infection control, and diagnosing medical conditions based on thermal patterns. These sensors offer non-invasive and rapid temperature assessment, making them invaluable in healthcare settings for early detection of illnesses and monitoring patient health. The integration of infrared sensors with medical devices and equipment enhances diagnostic capabilities, supports telemedicine applications, and improves healthcare delivery outcomes.

Automotive applications represent another significant segment for infrared sensors, particularly in advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and automotive safety technologies. Infrared sensors are employed in vehicles for applications such as collision avoidance, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. They enable vehicles to detect and respond to surrounding objects and road conditions, enhancing driver safety and reducing the risk of accidents. The automotive sector's adoption of infrared sensors is driven by regulatory mandates for vehicle safety, consumer demand for advanced safety features, and advancements in autonomous driving technologies.

Global Infrared Sensors Market, Segmentation by Technology

The Global Infrared Sensors Market has been segmented by Technology into Thermopile, Pyroelectric, Microbolometers, InGaAs and MCT.

The Global Infrared Sensors Market is segmented by technology into several distinct categories, each catering to different applications and performance requirements across various industries.

Thermopile sensors operate based on the principle of detecting changes in temperature through the measurement of infrared radiation. They are widely used in temperature measurement applications, such as non-contact thermometers, industrial process monitoring, and HVAC systems. Thermopile sensors are known for their durability, reliability, and ability to detect a broad range of temperatures, making them suitable for both consumer and industrial applications where precision and consistency are critical.

Pyroelectric sensors utilize pyroelectric materials that generate electric charge in response to temperature changes induced by infrared radiation. These sensors are commonly used in motion detection systems, security alarms, and presence sensing applications. Pyroelectric sensors offer fast response times and high sensitivity to thermal changes, making them ideal for applications requiring motion detection and occupancy sensing in both indoor and outdoor environments.

Microbolometer sensors are a type of thermal sensor that detects infrared radiation by measuring the changes in resistance of tiny thermal detectors known as bolometers. Microbolometers are widely used in thermal imaging cameras for applications such as night vision, surveillance, and industrial inspection. They offer high-resolution thermal imaging capabilities, enabling detection of heat signatures and thermal anomalies in various conditions. Microbolometer technology continues to advance, enhancing image quality, sensitivity, and integration with other imaging systems.

InGaAs (Indium Gallium Arsenide) and MCT (Mercury Cadmium Telluride) sensors are specialized infrared detectors used in applications requiring sensitivity to near-infrared and short-wave infrared (SWIR) wavelengths. InGaAs sensors are commonly used in telecommunications, spectroscopy, and biomedical imaging applications where detection of near-infrared light is crucial. MCT sensors, on the other hand, offer superior sensitivity and performance in SWIR and mid-wave infrared (MWIR) regions, making them suitable for military and defense applications, thermal imaging, and scientific research.

Global Infrared Sensors Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Infrared Sensors Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Infrared Sensors Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

The Global Infrared Sensors Market is segmented by geography into several key regions, each contributing uniquely to the market dynamics and adoption of infrared sensor technologies.

North America holds a significant share in the global infrared sensors market, driven by advanced technological infrastructure and widespread adoption across various industries. In the United States and Canada, infrared sensors are extensively used in automotive safety systems, smart home applications, and industrial automation. The region's robust research and development capabilities foster continuous innovation in sensor technology, enhancing their performance, reliability, and integration with emerging technologies such as AI and IoT. Moreover, stringent regulations and safety standards in automotive and healthcare sectors drive the demand for infrared sensors, supporting market growth in North America.

Europe is another prominent region in the global infrared sensors market, characterized by stringent regulatory frameworks and strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. Countries like Germany, the UK, and France lead in the adoption of infrared sensors for automotive applications, including ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and autonomous driving technologies. In addition to automotive, infrared sensors are deployed in industrial automation for process monitoring and control, as well as in smart building solutions for energy management and security. Europe's focus on reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency further drives the demand for infrared sensors in environmental monitoring and smart city initiatives.

Asia-Pacific emerges as a rapidly growing market for infrared sensors, fueled by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and expanding consumer electronics market. Countries such as China, Japan, South Korea, and India are witnessing increasing investments in manufacturing facilities, infrastructure development, and smart technologies, driving the adoption of infrared sensors across various applications. In the automotive sector, Asia-Pacific leads in vehicle production and adoption of ADAS technologies, thereby boosting the demand for infrared sensors for collision avoidance and driver safety systems. Furthermore, the region's thriving healthcare sector and rising demand for non-contact temperature measurement solutions contribute to the growth of infrared sensors in medical applications.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Infrared Sensors Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers

• Growing use in motion detection systems
• Rising demand for night vision devices
• Expansion in industrial automation applications

• Increased adoption in smart home devices - The widespread deployment of smart home technologies has become a major driver for the infrared sensors market. These sensors are increasingly used in home automation systems to enable features such as motion detection, occupancy sensing, and climate control. As consumers seek more convenience, energy efficiency, and security, smart devices equipped with infrared detection capabilities are gaining traction in both new and retrofit home environments.

  Infrared sensors enhance the functionality of devices such as smart lights, security alarms, automatic doors, and thermostats. They allow for hands-free, responsive control based on human presence or temperature variations. This contributes to a seamless user experience while optimizing power usage, which aligns well with the global trend toward energy-conscious living. With home automation systems becoming more affordable and accessible, the demand for infrared-based sensing components continues to rise.

  The proliferation of smart speakers, surveillance cameras, and interconnected home hubs has further accelerated the use of infrared sensors as integral enablers. These devices often rely on sensors for accurate triggering and reliable response times. Additionally, infrared sensors provide non-intrusive monitoring, preserving user privacy while maintaining security and comfort.

  As the smart home market continues to expand, especially in developed economies and urban settings, infrared sensors are expected to play a pivotal role in driving innovation. Their ability to deliver cost-effective, compact, and low-power solutions makes them an indispensable component in next-generation residential technologies.

Restraints

• Limited performance in harsh environments
• High cost of advanced sensor technologies
• Short detection range in low-end models

• Technical complexities in multisensor integration - Despite growing demand, one of the prominent restraints in the infrared sensors market is the complexity involved in integrating them with other sensor systems. Many advanced applications now rely on multisensor configurations that combine infrared, ultrasonic, optical, and other technologies to deliver enhanced functionality. However, ensuring seamless communication and interoperability between these different types of sensors poses technical challenges for developers and manufacturers.

  Each sensor type has distinct operational parameters such as sampling rates, power requirements, and signal processing protocols. Coordinating these within a single system requires sophisticated control algorithms, which increases design complexity and development time. For example, real-time data fusion from multiple sensors must be carefully calibrated to avoid inaccuracies, latency, or redundancy, particularly in dynamic environments like autonomous vehicles or robotics.

  The integration of infrared sensors into embedded systems also demands extensive testing, firmware development, and optimization to ensure compatibility across devices. This not only slows time to market but also raises production costs, particularly for small- and medium-sized enterprises. Moreover, misalignment between sensors can compromise system performance, affecting accuracy in critical applications such as healthcare diagnostics or military targeting.

  Until standardized frameworks and simpler integration toolkits become more widely available, the challenge of managing complex sensor ecosystems will remain a barrier to broader adoption. Addressing these integration issues is essential for maximizing the effectiveness and reliability of infrared sensors in high-performance environments.

Opportunities

• Growth in automotive safety applications
• Rising deployment in healthcare diagnostics
• Demand for energy-efficient sensor systems

• Integration with IoT and AI platforms - The increasing convergence of infrared sensors with IoT and AI platforms presents significant growth opportunities for the market. As smart environments evolve across industrial, commercial, and residential sectors, the need for real-time sensing and intelligent decision-making is driving the adoption of connected sensor systems. Infrared sensors are crucial in this shift, enabling automated responses and data-driven insights for applications such as security monitoring, asset tracking, and environmental control.

  When paired with IoT frameworks, infrared sensors can continuously collect and transmit data over the cloud, allowing for remote monitoring and control. This capability supports applications like smart cities, where traffic management, lighting, and public safety rely on interconnected sensor networks. AI algorithms further enhance the value of these sensors by enabling pattern recognition, anomaly detection, and predictive maintenance based on thermal signatures and motion behavior.

  Integration with AI also helps in optimizing sensor performance through self-calibration and adaptive sensing, reducing false positives and improving response accuracy. This creates a highly efficient ecosystem where sensors evolve from passive detectors to intelligent, proactive components of larger automation systems. As infrastructure upgrades and digital transformation efforts expand globally, the demand for such smart sensor integrations is expected to grow rapidly.

  Infrared sensors that can seamlessly communicate with AI-driven platforms and IoT gateways offer long-term value through enhanced functionality, scalability, and automation. Their role in building smart, efficient, and responsive systems will be critical in shaping the next generation of connected technologies.

Key players in Infrared Sensors Market include

• Excelitas Technologies
• FLIR Systems
• Hamamatsu Photonics
• Murata Manufacturing
• Sofradir

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Market Share Analysis
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis