Analysis

Printed/flexible electronics is a constantly evolving area with extensive scope for innovation. Here, IDTechEx has outlined three of the most exciting technological highlights in the sector. These innovations span from technically advanced materials to novel manufacturing methodologies, covering a diverse set of applications that range from OLED displays to wearable healthcare patches.

The third quarter 2020 semiconductor market totaled $114bn, up 11.0% from second quarter 2020, according to World Semiconductor Trade Statistics (WSTS). The 3Q20 growth was the highest since 11.6% in 3Q16. The strong 3Q20 growth follows a 2.1% decline in 2Q20 versus 1Q20. The second quarter is normally a healthy growth quarter, averaging four percent over the last eight years.

The summer quarter seemed to show an ease on the COVID-19 and lockdown-related pressure for the European Semiconductor Distribution industry in the third quarter of 2020. According to DMASS, sales in the European Semiconductor Distribution Market fell by 12.1% to €1.85bn, compared to a decrease of 20.7% in Q2.

According to a recent study from market research firm Global Market Insights, the automotive switch market is set to grow from its current market value of more than $13 billion to over $16 billion by 2026, gaining remarkable traction over the 2020 to 2026 period.

Almost nine in ten (89%) of Brits regard energy efficiency and energy savings as the most important factor when carrying out home improvements, according to new research by Schneider Electric.

A new study from Juniper Research has found that the total value of the Agtech market (Agricultural Technology) will reach $22.5 billion by 2025; rising from $9 billion in 2020. This represents an average annual growth rate of 150% over the next five years.

Despite being arguably one of the UK’s youngest tech sectors, gaming has risen in prominence in the past five years - employing a combined 47,000 professionals directly and indirectly across related industries (such as merchandising or eSports).

BluJay Solutions has released the findings from its third annual research study in the report, ‘Creating Resilience Amid Disruption: Research on How Supply Chains are Changing for Success and Survival’. 

The printed electronic materials market is forecast to be widely adopted in applications ranging from medical devices to smart packaging. This technological transition provides extensive opportunities for innovative materials including, amongst others, novel OLED emitters, conductive inks, and conductive adhesives.

Almost 70% of respondents in a new Swedish consumer study would be interested in a biometric card without having to touch the point-of-sale terminal. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the respondents expressed a strong interest in more hygienic and secure payment methods when shopping in stores.