Global Thin-film Batteries Market - 2024-2031

Overview

Global Thin-Film Batteries Market reached US$ 190.76 million in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 1,046.82 million by 2031, growing with a CAGR of 23.79% during the forecast period 2024-2031.

Thin-film batteries are solid-state batteries comprising the anode, the cathode, the electrolyte and the separator. The global thin film battery market is expected to experience significant growth, driven primarily by the consumer electronics sector. As demand for smaller, lighter and more efficient power sources grows, thin film batteries are becoming increasingly vital in this industry.

The rise of portable devices such as smartphones, wearables and tablets are fueling the need for compact and flexible energy solutions. According to the International Data Corporation (IDC), global smartphone shipments increased 7.8% year over year to 289.4 million units in the first quarter of 2024, underscoring the expanding market potential for thin film batteries during the forecast period.

Asia-Pacific is positioned for significant growth in the thin film battery market, driven by multiple factors that bolster its expanding dominance. There is a significant difference in battery prices throughout the region, with China having the lowest prices, while other countries in Asia-Pacific have higher prices. The reason for this difference is mostly because of China's manufacturing ability, with around 65% of battery cells and close to 80% of cathodes being made in the country.

Moreover, there has been a significant increase in the use of wearable devices in India and China in recent years and this trend is projected to persist due to the promising opportunities for thin film battery applications in these markets. The International Data Corporation (IDC) reported a 1.7% increase in wearable device shipments in Asia/Pacific, especially in China, indicating a rise in interest in developing markets.

Dynamics

Increasing Application in Medical Devices

Thin film batteries are increasingly in demand within the medical sector, where their compact size and reliability make them ideal for powering devices that monitor patients' health in real-time. These batteries are crucial for medical devices that need long-lasting power, as they can be used continuously in sensitive applications. The smooth integration of wearable medical technologies is enhanced by their small size and effectiveness, leading to continuous health monitoring for better patient care.

Thin film lithium-ion batteries are essential in the wearable technology sector as they supply power without increasing size. This allows manufacturers to create sophisticated and comfortable devices that are practical and easy to use. Achieving the right mix of power and portability is crucial in meeting consumer demands in the fast-developing industry, making thin film batteries a vital part of the advancement of wearable technology.

Growing Adoption of Smart Cards

The increasing adoption of thin film batteries in government and transportation sectors, in response to the growing use of smart cards and e-cards to improve security, is driving up the demand for these power sources. These batteries are crucial for providing power to smart cards, allowing for personal identification, authentication, data storage and application processing. With a focus on secure digital solutions, thin film batteries are crucial for the effective functioning of technologies in both government and industry.

Moreover, the thin film battery market is being propelled by the increasing use of smart cards by key companies such as Europay, Mastercard and Visa. With the increasing use of smart cards in companies for secure transactions and identity verification, the importance of dependable, durable power sources is also growing. This trend highlights the growing importance of thin film batteries in the changing digital environment.

Shorter Operational Life

The thin film batteries market encounters few restraints, with one of the most notable being their decreased lifespan in comparison to conventional batteries, particularly when utilized for high-end devices. This constraint can affect performance and reliability in devices that require durable energy sources, which decrease their attractiveness for specific uses.

Also, achieving a balance between the current rate, battery capacity and battery volume is a major obstacle for thin film batteries. These factors lead to complications in battery design, impacting their overall efficiency and effectiveness. Due to these restrictions, market expansion is likely to be slowed down as manufacturers and consumers may opt for alternative energy solutions with enhanced performance and longevity.

Segment Analysis

The global thin-film batteries market is segmented based on battery, technology, voltage, capacity, application and region.

Growing Demand for Rechargeable Batteries in Multiple Application

The demand for rechargeable thin film batteries is set to increase significantly in the global wearable device market. These batteries are particularly well-suited for smartwatches and fitness trackers due to their lightweight nature, flexibility and adaptability to various shapes and sizes. The sector is experiencing substantial growth, as evidenced by a 29.2% year-over-year increase in India's wearable market, which reached 48.1 million units, according to the International Data Corporation (IDC).

Ongoing research and development efforts aimed at reducing the overall costs of rechargeable thin film batteries are expected to further drive this segment's growth. For example, Japan's government has allocated a substantial budget of US$ 2.55 billion to advance battery research and aims to achieve commercial production of solid-state lithium batteries (ASSLBs) by 2030. Such investments highlight the growing focus on enhancing battery technology and supporting the expansion of the rechargeable battery market in wearables.

Geographical Penetration

Innovation, Investment and Trade Benefits in the North America Region

North America holds the largest market share in the thin-film batteries market due to several key factors. Increased investment in research and development in the region reflects a strong emphasis on innovation and technological advancements, driving growth in this sector. Major manufacturers such as Blue Spark Technologies, Ultralife Corporation and Brightvolts Inc., based in North America, play a significant role in leading the market, further consolidating the region's position.

Additionally, the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) has facilitated growth in the manufacturing sector by promoting equipment exports from Mexico and Canada. This trade agreement has created a favorable environment for the expansion of flexible battery production and distribution, reinforcing North America's dominance in the market.

Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the market include Enfucell, Jenax Inc., Molex LLC, NGK INSULATORS, LTD., Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd., ProLogium Technology CO., Ltd., Swatch Group, The Kurt J. Lesker Company, Ultralife Corporation and VARTA AG.

Impact of Artificial Intelligence

The impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the thin film batteries market is becoming increasingly significant as the technology evolves. AI-driven advancements are enhancing the design, production and performance of thin film batteries, making them more efficient and versatile. AI algorithms can optimize battery design by analyzing vast amounts of data to predict and improve battery performance, such as capacity, lifespan and energy density. It results in more reliable and higher-performing thin film batteries tailored to specific applications.

In production, AI technologies streamline manufacturing processes through automation and predictive maintenance, reducing costs and increasing yield. AI also plays a crucial role in developing innovative applications for thin film batteries. For instance, AI-powered smart devices and IoT applications, such as Qualcomm's golfer identification tag and Blue Spark Technologies' smart bandage, rely on advanced battery technologies to function effectively.

Furthermore, AI enables the creation of new product categories by integrating thin film batteries into various consumer and industrial devices. As AI continues to advance, its influence on the thin film batteries market is expected to drive further innovation and growth.

Russia-Ukraine War Impact

The thin film batteries market has been greatly affected by the Russia-Ukraine war, causing disruption in global supply chains and rising production expenses. Russia and Ukraine are both important providers of vital minerals and materials necessary for thin film battery manufacturing. For example, the conflict has caused a lack of palladium and other important substances, increased costs and causing production delays. This disturbance has impacted the supply of thin film batteries and raised their manufacturing expenses, potentially resulting in elevated prices for consumers.

Furthermore, the conflict-induced geopolitical uncertainty has led to instability in international markets, affecting investment and trade. Businesses in the thin film battery industry are reviewing their supply chains and looking for other sources to reduce risks. For instance, companies are seeking to broaden their supply chains to avoid areas impacted by political conflicts in order to guarantee a more reliable and safe manufacturing process. This change could result in alterations in the worldwide production and distribution of thin film batteries, demonstrating the wider influence of the conflict on the market.

By Battery

• Rechargeable
• Disposable

By Technology

• Printed Battery
• Ceramic Battery
• Lithium Polymer Battery
• Others

By Voltage

• Below 1.5 V
• 1.5 to 3 V
• Above 3 V

By Capacity

• Below 10 mAh
• 10 to 100 mAh
• Above 100 mAh

By Application

• Consumer Electronics
• Medical Devices
• Smart Packaging
• Smart Cards
• Wireless Sensors
• Others

Region

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• South America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
  • Rest of South America
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • Rest of Asia-Pacific
• Middle East and Africa

Key Developments

• In February 2024, LionVolt, a Dutch startup, began developing innovative 3D solid-state batteries featuring a thin film with billions of solid pillars, creating a patented 3D architecture with an extensive surface area. The company has also secured US$ 16 million in funding to scale up production of these advanced batteries.
• In January 2024, Battery start-up BTRY raised CHF 900,000 in pre-seed financing to develop high-performance thin-film solid-state batteries that can be charged and discharged within one minute. The company has engineered thin-film cells, just a few micrometers thick, into more powerful batteries using a process that involves high-precision vacuum coating and avoids toxic solvents.
• In September 2022, Molex expanded its manufacturing capabilities with a new 16,000-square-meter facility in Hanoi. This expansion is aimed at meeting the growing demand for Molex's products across various applications, including smartphones, TVs, home appliances, test equipment and medical devices.
• In January 2022, NGK entered a partnership with Swedish industrial company Exeter to expand into new markets and sectors. This collaboration focuses on developing low-power solutions and devices with extended or infinite battery life for applications such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and electronics, including e-shelf labels, sensors and remote controls. Both companies will work together to enhance manufacturing capacity and market presence.
• In December 2021, Molex acquired technology and intellectual property from Keyssa Inc., a leading player in high-speed contactless connectors. This acquisition includes 350 filed patent applications and diversifies Molex's portfolio with highly flexible, cable-free connectors designed for device-to-device applications.

Why Purchase the Report?

• To visualize the global thin-film batteries market segmentation based on battery, technology, voltage, capacity, application and region.
• Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development.
• Excel spreadsheet containing a comprehensive dataset of the thin-film batteries market, covering all levels of segmentation.
• PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.
• Product mapping available as excel consisting of key products of all the major players.

The global thin-film batteries market report would provide approximately 78 tables, 75 figures and 213 pages.

Target Audience 2024

• Manufacturers/ Buyers
• Industry Investors/Investment Bankers
• Research Professionals
• Emerging Companies