Introduction: Navigating the Competitive Landscape of Multi-Function Displays
The Multi-Function Display (MFD) market is undergoing a new, unmatched level of competition, a result of the rapid development of technology, the changing regulatory environment and the growing consumer expectations of integrated solutions. The market is becoming increasingly crowded with players such as original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), system integrators and network operators. These players are competing to offer the best solutions, which combine advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT) and biometric security. These differentiators not only enhance the end-user experience but also improve operational efficiency, and enable players to capture a large share of the market. However, the market is also being challenged by agile start-ups that are introducing new, niche features. Moreover, by 2024–2025, the market will be dominated by Asia-Pacific and North America, where strategic deployments will increasingly focus on sustainable and green MFD solutions, bringing a transformational shift to the MFD market.
Competitive Positioning
Full-Suite Integrators
These vendors provide comprehensive MFD solutions integrating various technologies for diverse applications.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Boeing |
Expertise in aerospace applications |
Aerospace MFD systems |
Global |
| Rockwell Collins |
Strong focus on avionics integration |
Avionics and MFD solutions |
North America, Europe |
| General Electric |
Diverse industrial applications |
Industrial MFD systems |
Global |
| Northrop Grumman |
Defense and security expertise |
Military MFD solutions |
North America, Europe |
| Honeywell |
Broad technology portfolio |
Aerospace and industrial MFDs |
Global |
Specialized Technology Vendors
These vendors focus on niche MFD technologies, offering specialized solutions for specific markets.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Cobham |
Innovative communication technologies |
Aerospace and defense MFDs |
Global |
| Mitsubishi Electric |
Advanced display technologies |
Industrial and commercial MFDs |
Asia, North America |
| Furuno Electric |
Marine navigation expertise |
Marine MFD systems |
Global |
| Elbit Systems |
Defense technology integration |
Military MFD solutions |
Global |
| L3Harris Technologies |
Robust communication systems |
Defense and commercial MFDs |
North America, Europe |
Infrastructure & Equipment Providers
These vendors supply the necessary infrastructure and equipment to support MFD technologies.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Garmin |
User-friendly navigation solutions |
Consumer and marine MFDs |
Global |
| Raytheon Technologies |
Advanced defense systems |
Military and aerospace MFDs |
Global |
| Saab |
Strong defense capabilities |
Military MFD solutions |
Europe, North America |
| Thales |
Integrated security solutions |
Defense and aerospace MFDs |
Global |
| Navico |
Marine electronics specialization |
Marine MFD systems |
Global |
Emerging Players & Regional Champions
- Aerodisplay (USA): specialized in advanced cockpit displays for aircraft, recently signed a contract with a regional airline to retrofit MFDs in its fleet, challenging established players by offering flexible and affordable solutions.
- VisionTech Displays (Germany): Specializes in high-resolution MFDs for automobile applications. Having recently teamed up with a leading manufacturer of electric vehicles to integrate its products, VisionTech Displays complements the traditional suppliers of the automobile industry with its advanced technology.
- The MFDs are made for the marine environment and are rugged. They have recently been used on a fishing fleet, and they have established themselves as a regional leader by addressing the needs of the maritime industry.
- SmartHome Displays (Canada): Develops MFDs for smart home applications, recently launched a new product line that integrates with IoT devices, challenging established home automation vendors by providing a more user-friendly interface.
Regional Trends: In 2023, the use of MFDs will be largely increased, especially in the aviation and automobile industries. The market is still mainly dominated by foreign companies, but they have begun to focus on specialization, including high-resolution screens and IoTs, to meet the needs of different industries. Meanwhile, regional champions have been established to serve the needs of niche markets, such as marine and smart home, which are often ignored by large companies.
Collaborations & M&A Movements
- In a joint venture, Rockwell-Collins and Honeywell are developing next-generation MFDs which will increase cockpit efficiency and pilot situational awareness.
- Garmin acquired the MFD technology assets of a smaller firm, aiming to integrate advanced navigation features into their existing product line, which is expected to increase their market share in the aviation industry.
- Thales and Airbus have worked together to develop a new Multi-Function Display which, by the introduction of augmented reality, will increase the ease of use and the operational safety of commercial aircraft. This will place both companies in the forefront of the development of aeronautical solutions.
Competitive Summary Table
| Capability | Leading Players | Remarks |
|---|
| Biometric Self-Boarding |
Gemalto, SITA |
Using biometrics, Gemalto has implemented self-boarding solutions in major airports, thereby enhancing the flow of passengers and reducing waiting times. SITA's Smart Path technology has been successfully adopted in more than 400 airports, proving the efficiency of its boarding process. |
| AI-Powered Ops Mgmt |
Amadeus, IBM |
Amadeus leverages AI to optimize flight schedules and resource allocation, resulting in improved operational efficiency. IBM's Watson has been integrated into airport operations, providing predictive analytics that enhance decision-making processes. |
| Border Control |
Thales, Vision-Box |
Thales offers the most advanced systems for border control, which are based on the facial recognition of individuals, thereby greatly speeding up the process of entry and exit. Vision-box has already installed such systems in several countries and has a proven track record of increasing security and efficiency. |
| Sustainability |
Honeywell, Siemens |
Honeywell’s eco-friendly MFD solutions are designed to save energy and reduce waste. This reflects the company’s commitment to global sustainability goals. In the field of airports, Siemens has introduced smart building solutions to reduce carbon footprints. |
| Passenger Experience |
Samsung, LG |
Samsung's MFDs are known for their high-resolution displays and interactive features that enhance passenger engagement. LG has developed user-friendly interfaces for their MFDs, improving wayfinding and information accessibility in airports. |
Conclusion: Navigating the MFD Market Landscape
The MFD market in 2023 is characterized by a high degree of competition and significant fragmentation. Both the established and new players compete for market share. The geographical trends show an increasing demand for advanced display solutions in North America and Asia-Pacific, which has led the market players to adapt their strategies accordingly. The established players are relying on their reputation and distribution networks, while the new players are focusing on new technological capabilities such as AI, automation, and sustainability to differentiate themselves. In the future, the ability to offer flexible solutions to meet the varied customer needs will be crucial to leadership. These capabilities must be prioritised in order to remain competitive and take advantage of the changing market.
