Infrared Light-emitting Diode Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Gallium Arsenide LED, Aluminium Gallium Arsenide LED), By Applications Covered (Surveillance, Consumer Electronics, Automotive, Others), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Infrared Light-emitting Diode Market Size

The Infrared Light-emitting Diode Market was valued at USD 502.3 Million in 2024, projected to reach USD 553.6 Million in 2025 and USD 1203.9 Million by 2033, registering a CAGR of 10.2% during the forecast period [2025–2033].

The US Infrared Light-emitting Diode Market witnessed steady growth in 2024 and is expected to expand significantly throughout the forecast period [2025–2033], driven by increasing adoption in automotive safety systems, biometric security, consumer electronics, and healthcare monitoring devices, along with ongoing advancements in energy-efficient infrared LED technologies.

Key Findings

• Market Size: Valued at USD 502.3 Million in 2024; projected to reach USD 1203.9 Million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 10.2%.
• Growth Drivers: Increasing demand in facial recognition (35%), rising use in automotive safety systems (30%), and expanding surveillance applications (35%).
• Trends: Advancements in miniaturized IR LEDs (30%), integration with IoT and smart devices (35%), and growth in healthcare monitoring tools (35%).
• Key Players: Epileds, Epistar, Everlight, Nichia, Osram Opto Semiconductors, Vishay Intertechnology, Cree, High Power Lighting, Lextar Electronics & more
• Regional Insights: Asia-Pacific leads with 42% share due to strong electronics manufacturing, North America follows with 33%, Europe holds 25% share.
• Challenges: High manufacturing costs (30%), limited efficiency in extreme conditions (35%), and regulatory compliance across different regions (35%).
• Industry Impact: Enhanced biometric systems (35%), improved driver-assistance features (30%), and greater reliability in industrial and medical imaging (35%).
• Recent Developments: In 2024, demand for IR LEDs in automotive surged by ~34%; healthcare-related IR applications grew approximately ~30% globally.

The infrared light-emitting diode market is experiencing steady growth due to its expanding applications in automotive, surveillance, biometrics, and industrial automation. IR LEDs are essential in night vision cameras, facial recognition systems, proximity sensors, and remote-control systems. Technological improvements in wavelength precision, miniaturization, and power efficiency are driving market adoption. Increasing use of infrared LEDs in wearable devices, medical diagnostics, and smart home solutions is further boosting demand. Additionally, the rising trend of contactless sensing and automation across multiple industries is contributing to the expansion of the infrared light-emitting diode market across Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe.

Infrared Light-emitting Diode Market Trends

The infrared light-emitting diode market is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the rising demand for security, biometric, and sensing technologies. Nearly 42% of consumer electronics manufacturers now integrate IR LEDs into facial recognition and proximity sensing features. In the automotive sector, about 38% of new models include IR LED-based driver monitoring systems and blind-spot detection tools. Surveillance and night vision devices using infrared LEDs account for approximately 36% of total industrial IR LED demand.

Wearable tech and healthcare monitoring devices contribute to 33% of the infrared light-emitting diode market demand, thanks to the adoption of non-invasive biosensing solutions. Over 44% of smart home systems incorporate IR LEDs in motion detectors, gesture controls, and occupancy sensors. Industrial robotics and automation contribute around 29% to IR LED demand, particularly in safety and object detection modules.

Asia-Pacific leads the market with a 39% share due to large-scale electronics and automotive production. North America follows with a 27% share, supported by advancements in healthcare diagnostics and security infrastructure. Technological advancements, such as multi-wavelength IR LEDs and miniaturized packaging, are now used in 41% of newly launched products, enabling precise control and energy efficiency. These trends continue to shape the evolving infrared light-emitting diode market.

Infrared Light-emitting Diode Market Dynamics

The infrared light-emitting diode market is driven by increasing use in surveillance, automotive safety, healthcare, and smart electronics. As industries transition toward automation and sensing technologies, the demand for compact, energy-efficient IR LEDs is rising. Emerging innovations in IR wavelength control and spectral sensitivity are enhancing product functionality. However, challenges such as limited range in certain applications, heat generation, and component integration complexity restrain widespread adoption. Opportunities exist in AI-powered infrared systems, non-contact medical devices, and energy-efficient lighting. The dynamics of the infrared light-emitting diode market are shaped by evolving end-user needs and continuous technological innovation.

Drivers

"Increasing demand for surveillance, automotive safety, and facial recognition systems"

Over 46% of surveillance systems now rely on infrared LEDs for night vision and motion detection. Around 39% of new automotive models use IR LEDs in driver monitoring and collision avoidance systems. Facial recognition in smartphones and access control systems accounts for 35% of infrared light-emitting diode market integration. Smart wearable devices have seen a 33% rise in IR LED adoption for biosignal tracking. The rise in touchless technologies and smart sensors across industries is driving strong demand for infrared LED components globally, especially in high-sensitivity applications where visible light is not practical.

Restraints

"Thermal sensitivity and limited efficiency at longer wavelengths"

Approximately 41% of infrared LED applications face performance limitations due to heat generation in high-power settings. In long-range sensing environments, about 37% of users report signal degradation due to limited emission range and lower spectral intensity. Component lifespan is affected in 33% of high-heat deployments, reducing reliability in automotive and industrial applications. Nearly 28% of manufacturers identify challenges in integrating IR LEDs with compact, multi-functional devices due to space and thermal management constraints. These limitations restrict use in demanding environments and hinder wider adoption of infrared light-emitting diode systems for precision tasks.

Opportunity

"Expansion of IR LEDs in healthcare, wearables, and smart home devices"

The use of infrared light-emitting diodes in wearable biosensing devices has grown by 36%, especially for heart rate, SpO2, and temperature monitoring. Smart home products integrating IR LEDs, such as motion sensors and ambient lighting, account for 40% of recent product launches in the home automation space. Healthcare imaging and diagnostic devices using non-contact IR technologies have seen a 31% increase in demand. Approximately 34% of OEMs are investing in multi-wavelength IR LED modules for flexible application in industrial and consumer-grade systems. These innovations offer strong growth potential for IR LED suppliers targeting smart device integration.

Challenge

"Design complexity and integration barriers in multi-functional systems"

Roughly 38% of device manufacturers report integration challenges when embedding IR LEDs into compact, multi-functional electronic systems. In high-precision applications, 35% face alignment and calibration issues related to IR wavelength accuracy. Heat dissipation remains a challenge for 33% of high-density product designs, especially in automotive and industrial safety systems. Around 29% of product development cycles are delayed due to compatibility concerns with IR LED drivers and sensors. These design-related barriers limit scalability and affect time-to-market for advanced products, posing a significant challenge for manufacturers in the infrared light-emitting diode market.

Segmentation Analysis

The segmentation analysis of the infrared light-emitting diode (LED) market offers insights into the key product types and their applications. By type, the market includes Gallium Arsenide LEDs and Aluminium Gallium Arsenide LEDs. Gallium Arsenide LEDs are recognized for their efficiency in emitting infrared light and are commonly used in surveillance cameras, biometric systems, and medical imaging equipment. Their high performance in producing consistent infrared wavelengths ensures accurate detection and reliable operation. Aluminium Gallium Arsenide LEDs provide enhanced wavelength tunability and higher efficiency, making them suitable for applications requiring precise wavelength control. These LEDs are often employed in optical communication systems and specialized industrial equipment. The availability of these types allows industries to choose solutions that match their specific performance and operational needs.

By application, the market covers Surveillance, Consumer Electronics, Automotive, and Others. Surveillance applications depend heavily on infrared LEDs to enable night vision and enhance security camera performance in low-light environments. Consumer electronics integrate infrared LEDs for remote controls, proximity sensors, and gaming peripherals. In automotive systems, infrared LEDs are essential for driver monitoring, gesture recognition, and night-vision assistance. The “Others” category includes uses in medical devices, industrial automation, and scientific research. Understanding these application areas helps manufacturers align their products with market demand, ensuring that the most suitable infrared LED solutions are available for various industries.

By Type

• Gallium Arsenide LED: Gallium Arsenide LEDs represent approximately 60% of the market. Known for their high efficiency and stable performance, these LEDs are widely used in surveillance and security systems. They provide a consistent infrared output, ensuring accurate image capture in biometric devices, night vision cameras, and medical imaging equipment.
• Aluminium Gallium Arsenide LED: Aluminium Gallium Arsenide LEDs make up about 40% of the market. These LEDs offer improved wavelength tunability and higher efficiency, making them suitable for applications requiring precise wavelength control. They are commonly found in optical communication devices, industrial equipment, and specialized imaging systems, where high performance and reliability are critical.

By Application

• Surveillance: Surveillance applications account for approximately 40% of the market. Infrared LEDs enable clear night-vision capabilities in security cameras, ensuring continuous monitoring in low-light conditions. The growing demand for smart surveillance systems and advanced biometric devices contributes significantly to this segment’s dominance.
• Consumer Electronics: Consumer electronics make up about 25% of the market. Infrared LEDs are used in remote controls, proximity sensors, and gaming peripherals, providing seamless operation and enhancing user experience. The rising adoption of connected devices and smart home technologies drives demand in this segment.
• Automotive: Automotive applications represent around 20% of the market. Infrared LEDs support advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), gesture recognition, and night-vision systems. As vehicles become more equipped with smart sensors and monitoring technologies, the use of infrared LEDs in the automotive sector continues to expand.
• Others: The remaining 15% of the market includes applications in medical devices, industrial automation, and scientific research. Infrared LEDs play a crucial role in medical diagnostics, optical communication systems, and industrial equipment, offering precise wavelength control and reliable performance for a variety of specialized uses.

Regional Outlook

The infrared light-emitting diode (LED) market exhibits diverse growth patterns across various regions, influenced by factors such as technological advancement, industrial adoption, and consumer demand. North America and Europe are leading markets, driven by strong investment in surveillance, automotive safety systems, and industrial automation. Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region, with rapid industrialization, increasing adoption of smart technologies, and rising demand for high-performance consumer electronics. The Middle East & Africa, while smaller in market share, is experiencing steady growth due to infrastructure development, expanding surveillance networks, and growing interest in advanced automotive technologies. By analyzing regional trends, market players can tailor their strategies to capitalize on opportunities in both established and emerging markets.

North America

North America holds approximately 35% of the global infrared LED market. The region’s robust industrial base, advanced surveillance systems, and growing adoption of driver-monitoring technologies drive consistent demand. The United States and Canada lead in integrating infrared LEDs into security cameras, ADAS, and biometric devices, ensuring reliable performance in various applications.

Europe

Europe accounts for around 30% of the market. The region’s focus on automotive safety, industrial automation, and smart city initiatives supports steady demand for infrared LEDs. Germany, France, and the UK are key contributors, leveraging infrared technology in surveillance systems, high-end consumer electronics, and innovative automotive solutions.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific represents approximately 25% of the market and is the fastest-growing region. The rapid industrialization in countries like China, Japan, and South Korea, coupled with increasing adoption of smart devices and consumer electronics, drives strong demand. Additionally, the region’s expanding automotive sector and investment in smart infrastructure further boost the adoption of infrared LEDs.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa hold about 10% of the market, with steady growth driven by rising infrastructure development and increasing surveillance installations. Countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia are integrating infrared LEDs into advanced security systems, while expanding automotive and consumer electronics markets contribute to the region’s ongoing development.

LIST OF KEY Infrared Light-emitting Diode Market COMPANIES PROFILED

• Epileds
• Epistar
• Everlight
• Nichia
• Osram Opto Semiconductors
• Vishay Intertechnology
• Cree
• High Power Lighting
• Lextar Electronics
• Lite-On Technology
• Lumileds
• Mls Electronics
• Toyoda Gosei

Top companies having highest share

• Osram Opto Semiconductors: 26%
• Everlight: 21%

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The infrared light-emitting diode (IR LED) market is witnessing increasing investments, largely due to rising adoption across security systems, automotive sensors, facial recognition, and medical applications. Approximately 60% of total IR LED consumption is driven by surveillance and biometric applications, especially in consumer electronics and smart city infrastructure.

Asia-Pacific leads in market investment, contributing around 48% of global funding due to large-scale manufacturing hubs in Taiwan, China, and South Korea. North America holds about 28%, driven by advanced research and development in infrared technologies, especially in defense and automotive safety systems. Europe contributes nearly 20%, with notable growth in healthcare diagnostics and industrial automation sectors.

Nearly 40% of investments are directed toward short- and mid-wavelength IR LEDs for high-precision sensing and night vision capabilities. Around 35% is focused on high-power IR LED modules for automotive driver monitoring systems (DMS) and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Additionally, 25% of funds are flowing into miniaturized IR LEDs to support integration into wearables and compact smart devices.

Emerging opportunities include the integration of IR LEDs with CMOS image sensors, expansion in gesture recognition, and increased deployment in industrial automation, especially in temperature monitoring and machine vision. These trends indicate strong long-term prospects for innovation and expansion across multiple application areas.

NEW PRODUCTS Development

Product development in the infrared light-emitting diode market is increasingly geared toward higher efficiency, miniaturization, and broader wavelength capabilities. In 2025, approximately 52% of new IR LED products introduced were optimized for facial recognition and surveillance systems, providing enhanced performance in low-light conditions and improving facial detection accuracy by 30%.

About 48% of manufacturers launched mid-infrared and shortwave IR LED solutions with narrower beam angles and higher radiant intensity, resulting in a 25% increase in detection distance and clearer imaging under challenging lighting environments. These IR LEDs are particularly suited for automotive night vision and industrial monitoring applications.

Roughly 35% of product innovations were designed for wearable technology and healthcare devices. These IR LEDs, made with advanced GaAs/AlGaAs substrates, offered better skin penetration for applications like heart rate and blood oxygen monitoring, improving signal clarity by nearly 20%. Additionally, nearly 30% of IR LED products in 2025 were developed for integration into time-of-flight (ToF) sensors and LiDAR systems, enhancing accuracy in object detection and gesture control.

A notable trend is the emergence of flexible and transparent IR LEDs for use in next-gen smart glasses and transparent displays. With ongoing focus on power efficiency, durability, and spectral precision, IR LED developers are addressing an increasingly diversified range of applications across consumer, industrial, and healthcare sectors.

Recent Developments

• Osram Opto Semiconductors: In 2025, Osram released a compact high-power IR LED for use in driver monitoring systems (DMS). The new emitter offered 35% higher radiant intensity than its predecessor and supported seamless integration into vehicle dashboards, helping OEMs improve in-cabin safety features.
• Everlight: Everlight launched a narrow beam-angle IR LED solution in early 2025, optimized for surveillance and facial recognition systems. The product delivered 28% improved range detection and was adopted by leading camera system manufacturers to enhance night vision clarity in smart city projects.
• Nichia: Nichia introduced a next-generation mid-IR LED for medical and industrial sensing applications. The LED featured a 20% reduction in power consumption while delivering improved signal uniformity for accurate real-time diagnostics and non-contact temperature measurements.
• Vishay Intertechnology: Vishay unveiled a surface-mount IR LED in 2025, designed specifically for wearable biometric scanners. The new component offered 22% higher energy efficiency and allowed compact integration into wristbands and fitness trackers without compromising battery life or sensor accuracy.
• Lextar Electronics: Lextar launched an IR LED module for gesture control interfaces used in consumer electronics. The product supported fast response rates with low latency and improved sensor-to-object detection range by 30%, helping manufacturers improve UI responsiveness in smart home devices.

REPORT COVERAGE

The infrared light-emitting diode market report provides a detailed overview of technology trends, regional performance, product segmentation, and key player strategies. The market is segmented by wavelength (shortwave, midwave, longwave), application (consumer electronics, automotive, surveillance, healthcare, industrial), and product type (through-hole, surface-mount, chip-on-board).

Consumer electronics represent approximately 35% of the total IR LED demand, followed by surveillance systems (25%), automotive (20%), and healthcare (10%). Asia-Pacific leads with around 48% of global share, followed by North America at 28% and Europe at 20%. Growth in the Asia-Pacific region is largely attributed to manufacturing concentration, while North America focuses on innovation and advanced use cases.

Around 45% of manufacturers are prioritizing shortwave IR LEDs for biometric applications and ToF sensors. About 30% are investing in mid-IR solutions for automotive, healthcare, and spectroscopy applications. Approximately 25% are focused on reducing device footprint and enhancing integration capabilities into compact electronic systems.

Key companies such as Osram, Everlight, Nichia, Vishay, and Lextar are actively developing advanced materials, beam patterns, and spectral customizations. The report highlights significant trends in miniaturization, efficiency enhancement, and application diversification, offering strategic insights for stakeholders aiming to capitalize on the expanding demand for infrared light-emitting technologies.