Global CMOS Image Sensor Market

Market Outlook:

The global CMOS Image Sensor market was valued at USD 20,725 Mn in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 39,624 Mn by 2028, expanding at a CAGR of 8.6% during the forecast period. CMOS image sensor, known as complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor image sensor, is a technology found in digital cameras with integrated electronic circuitry.

It is responsible for converting incoming photon flux into digital signals. CMOS image sensors record the image captured. CMOS sensors are made of millions of pixel sensors and consist of a photo detector. These pixel sensors, along with the photo detector, enable the camera to record an image by giving information, which the camera subsequently converts into digital reading.

These image sensors are available in a variety of sizes, including wafer size and sensor size. Each pixel on a CMOS image sensor includes both a photodiode and a CMOS transistor switch, enabling pixel signals to be amplified separately. Pixel signals are accessed consecutively and directly, at a faster rate than a CCD Image sensor, by activating the matrix of switches. Key advantage of having an amplifier for each pixel is that it lowers the noise that arises while reading electrical signals converted from recorded light.

Market Dynamics

Increasing incorporation of cameras in electronic devices such as tablets and smartphones is one of the key factors contributing to the growth of the market. The quality of images captured in smartphones is increasing, as manufacturers are focusing on development of image sensors with improved functionalities to maintain the slimness and usability of smartphones. Installation of multiple cameras in a single smartphone unit results in improved high-dynamic range, low light photography, and optical zoom, as well as 3D imaging features and portrait mode.

Increasing popularity of social networking applications contributes to the adoption of high resolution camera modules in consumer electronics such as digital cameras and smartphones. Manufacturers are incorporating high-quality camera lenses in consumer electronics. Canon offers a CMOS image sensor that offers an image resolution of around 120 megapixels. Increasing use of social networking applications is anticipated to reflect a positive impact on the growth of the market during the forecast period.

Adverse impact of the coronavirus is felt across the globe. The lockdown impeded the production of CMOS image sensors, due to shutting down of manufacturing units in 2020 and 2021. Slowdown of industries such as electronics and automobiles is anticipated to hamper the usage of CMOS image sensors. Additionally, the pandemic caused a lack of supply of raw materials. Opening up of manufacturing units by the fourth quarter of 2021, with essential precautions and compliance with government regulations, is expected to boost the production gradually in the near future.

Rising implementation of cameras in augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI), and virtual reality (VR) applications, as well as in driverless or autonomous cars, is expected to create new opportunities and drive revenue streams for players operating in the image sensor market. Over the years, surveillance cameras, smartphones, and other devices are leveraging AI to improve the quality of the pictures taken, thereby driving the market during the forecast period.

Segmental Outlook

By Types Segment

In terms of types, the global CMOS image sensor market is classified as front-illuminated sensor and backside-illuminated sensor segments. The front-illuminated sensor segment accounts for a considerable share of the global market; however, the backside-illuminated sensor segment is anticipated to grow significantly during the forecast period. Increasing demand for visual surveillance and intrusion detection in intelligent surveillance systems, aerial surveillance in war zones, and environmental surveillance by satellites in space monitoring is propelling the backside-illuminated sensor segment.

By Applications Segment

In terms of applications, the global CMOS image sensor market is divided into consumer electronics, healthcare, industrial, security and surveillance, automotive and transportation, aerospace and defense, and others. The consumer electronics segment is anticipated to hold a significant share of the global market.

However, the automotive and transportation segment is anticipated to grow at a rapid pace during the forecast period. Digital photography and mobile photography perform well in low-light conditions, owing to the employment of CMOS image sensors. The characteristics of high accuracy and appropriate light fill factor increased the demand for CMOS in various consumer electronics applications, thus fostering the segment growth.

Regional Outlook

In terms of regions, the global CMOS Image Sensor market is segregated into North America, Europe, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. North America accounts for a significant share of the market, followed by Europe. Various electronic products such as smartphones and wearable gadgets are expected to shift trends of consumers towards sensor-enabled electronics.

The smartphone industry is anticipated to drive the market in the region. Europe accounted for significant growth with substantial CAGR. Growing safety issues in driving are expected to boost the demand for CMOS image sensors in the automotive industry. Significant growth in the region is registered, owing to the emergence of key players. Europe-based e2v technologies acquired Atmel's image sensor and camera group, increasing its scope across CCD and CMOS technology.

Key Benefits for Industry Participants & Stakeholders

• In-depth Analysis of the CMOS Image Sensor.
• Historical, Current and Projected Market Size in terms of Value.
• Potential & Niche Segments and Regions Exhibiting Promising Growth Covered
• Industry Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Covered in the Study
• Recent Industry Trends and Developments
• Competitive Landscape & Strategies of Key Players
• Neutral Perspective on Global CMOS Image Sensor Market Performance

Segments

Types

• Front-Illuminated Sensor
• Backside-Illuminated Sensor

Applications

• Consumer Electronics
• Healthcare
• Industrial
• Security and Surveillance
• Automotive and Transportation
• Aerospace and Defense

 Regions

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • U.K.
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Middle East & Africa (MEA)
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • UAE
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa (MEA)
• Asia Pacific (APAC)
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Taiwan
  • South East Asia (SEA)
  • Rest of Asia Pacific (APAC)

Key Market Players 

• STMicroelectronics
• Sony Group Corporation
• Semiconductor Components Industries, LLC (ON Semiconductor)
• Canon Inc.
• SK HYNIX INC.
• SAMSUNG
• OmniVision Technologies, Inc.
• Hamamatsu Photonics K.K.
• Panasonic Corporation
• Teledyne Digital Imaging Inc.
• GalaxyCore Shanghai Limited Corporation
• Himax Technologies, Inc.
• Ams AG
• PixArt Imaging Inc.
• PIXELPLUS

Competitive Landscape

• Key players in the market include STMicroelectronics, Sony Group Corporation, SAMSUNG, Semiconductor Components Industries, LLC (ON Semiconductor), Canon Inc., SK HYNIX INC., OmniVision Technologies, Inc., Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Panasonic Corporation, Teledyne Digital Imaging Inc., GalaxyCore Shanghai Limited Corporation, Himax Technologies, Inc., ams AG, PixArt Imaging Inc., and PIXELPLUS. These players are considered as key market players based on their different varieties of product availability, regional presence, better supply chain management system, and the increasing demand for the products.
• The players are adopting key strategies such as product development, geographical expansion, mergers and acquisition and many other strategies to increase their demand for CMOS Image Sensor.