Introduction
As we approach the year 2024, the active components market is expected to undergo a major transformation, driven by a number of macroeconomic factors. In particular, the accelerating technological changes in the areas of 5G, the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence will change the market landscape and force suppliers to innovate and adapt. In addition, regulations aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing the amount of electronic waste will affect the development of products. Meanwhile, changes in consumer behavior, such as the increasing demand for smart and connected devices, will push companies to focus more on functionality and integration. These trends are vital for all market participants to understand, not only to inform their strategic decisions but also to ensure that they remain competitive in an increasingly complex market.
Top Trends
- Increased Demand for IoT Devices
The number of active components is largely determined by the spread of IoT devices, with an expected 30 billion connected devices by 2025. Industry leaders are investing heavily in IoT solutions, as is the case with Qualcomm's focus on 5G. This trend is pushing component makers to develop low-power devices and increase energy efficiency. Future developments may include more integrated solutions for smart cities and industry 4.0.
- Advancements in Semiconductor Technology
The industry is advancing rapidly, especially in the 5nm and 3nm processes, which are both faster and more power-efficient. Intel and Samsung are the most advanced companies, and the new chips from Intel are expected to be a great deal more efficient. This is an important trend for the applications of AI and machine learning, and will radically change the possibilities of computing. Future developments will result in ever-smaller, ever-more powerful devices.
- Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Components
The environment is becoming a major concern, and companies like ST Microelectronics are committing themselves to a more sustainable future. The goal of a zero-emissions world is having an effect on the design of components. The emphasis is on the use of recyclable materials and energy-saving products. The trend is expected to affect the industry’s supply chains and operating practices. Future developments may involve more stringent legislation and greater encouragement to adopt sustainable practices.
- Rise of Electric Vehicles (EVs)
The EV market is growing rapidly, and by 2030 it is expected that EVs will represent a third of all car sales. For the EV market, Infineon has developed special components, which optimize the performance and safety of EVs. These innovations are bringing about developments in power management and battery technology. The result is closer collaboration between the automobile and the electronics industries.
- Integration of AI in Electronics
Artificial intelligence is increasingly being integrated into the functionality and the usability of electrical devices. Texas Instruments, for example, develops smart sensors that use artificial intelligence for real-time data processing. This trend will lead to a considerable improvement in automation and in the use of preventive maintenance in a variety of industries. In the future, developments could lead to more self-contained systems and smarter devices.
- Expansion of 5G Technology
The emergence of 5G technology will have a significant impact on the active components market, especially on the demand for high-frequency components. The US company Skyworks is at the forefront of this market, producing components essential to the 5G network. This trend is accelerating the development of telecommunications and smart devices. There will be greater interconnection and the emergence of new applications in various industries.
- Growth in Wearable Technology
By the year 2025, the market for wearables is expected to be worth $60 billion. Analog Devices, for example, is innovating in the field of low-power components designed for wearables. Miniaturized, efficient, and miniaturized—that's the demand for the next generation of components. The trend is towards more sophisticated health monitoring and integration with the IoT.
- Focus on Cybersecurity in Electronics
The security of the interconnected network of smart devices is becoming a major concern for manufacturers. Broadcom, Inc., for example, is developing secure components to protect against cyberattacks. This trend is transforming the way products are designed and requiring closer collaboration between hardware and software engineers. The future may bring stricter security standards and greater awareness among consumers.
- Emergence of Quantum Computing
In the last few years, however, the prospect of quantum computing has become a revolutionary one, and companies like IBM and Intel have already invested in quantum-based chips. Consequently, the demand for specialized devices capable of quantum operations is expected to grow. For industries like cryptography and simulations, the implications are immense. Future developments may even bring about a new range of applications and new capabilities.
- Shift Towards Customization and Personalization
In the field of electronic components, there is a growing trend towards individualization, which is driven by the demand for individual devices. Companies like NXP Semiconductors are offering a tailored solution for a specific market. This trend has a significant impact on production processes and supply chain management. Future developments may well see the use of more flexible production processes and closer cooperation with the end customer.
Conclusion: Navigating the Active Components Landscape
The Active Electronic Components Market in 2024 will be characterized by a high degree of competition and significant fragmentation, with both established and new players competing for market share. Region-wise, the market will be dominated by the innovation hubs of Asia-Pacific and North America, where technological advancements will be rapidly reshaping the landscape. Strategic positioning of vendors, based on capabilities in the fields of artificial intelligence, automation, and sustainable development, will be essential to gain a competitive edge. The incumbents will focus on the sustainable development of existing products and services, while new entrants will be disrupting the market with agile and technology-driven solutions. In this evolving market, the ability to adapt to changing customer demands and regulatory environments will be essential to maintain leadership.