Over-the-Air Testing Market Forecasts to 2030 - Global Analysis By Component, Technology, End User and By Geography

According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Over-the-Air (OTA) Testing Market is accounted for $3.007 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $5.999 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 12.2% during the forecast period. Over-the-Air (OTA) testing refers to the process of evaluating the performance and functionality of wireless devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and IoT devices, in real-world conditions without the need for physical connections. This testing is crucial for assessing how well devices communicate with wireless networks and manage software updates, especially in scenarios involving different frequencies and network conditions. It ensures that devices can receive over-the-air updates efficiently, which is vital for maintaining security, enhancing functionality and fixing bugs.

According to Ericsson, 5G subscriptions are expected to skyrocket globally between 2019 and 2027, rising from over 12 million to over 4 billion. According to the Ericsson Mobility report, in the North American region, 5G subscriptions are predicted to account for 55% of mobile subscriptions by 2024.

Market Dynamics:

Driver:

Growing number of IoT devices and connected automobiles

The rapid proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and connected automobiles is significantly enhancing Over-the-Air (OTA) testing methodologies. As these devices become increasingly integral to daily life, ensuring their reliability and security through efficient OTA testing is paramount. OTA testing enables manufacturers to remotely update software, fix bugs, and enhance functionality without requiring physical access to the device. This is particularly crucial for connected vehicles, where timely updates can improve safety features and user experiences. The sheer volume of IoT devices introduces complexities in testing, such as varying network conditions and diverse hardware configurations, necessitating robust OTA testing frameworks.

Restraint:

Interference issues

Interference issues in Over-the-Air (OTA) testing significantly impede the accuracy and reliability of wireless communication evaluations. OTA testing is crucial for assessing how devices perform in real-world environments, yet the presence of external interference-such as signals from other devices, environmental factors, or electromagnetic radiation can skew results. This interference may lead to incorrect assessments of a device's range, signal strength and overall performance. However, it complicates the identification of faults or weaknesses in the device's design.

Opportunity:

Rise of 5G technology

With its ultra-low latency, increased bandwidth, and massive device connectivity, 5G allows for more sophisticated and realistic testing environments. OTA testing involves assessing how well devices communicate with network signals in real-world conditions, which is essential for validating performance metrics like data throughput, signal strength, and interference handling. 5G's capabilities enable more extensive testing scenarios, including the evaluation of beamforming and MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) technologies, which are vital for optimizing device performance in dense urban environments. Furthermore, the high-speed data rates of 5G facilitate faster testing cycles and real-time data analysis, allowing manufacturers to refine their products more efficiently.

Threat:

Technical complexity

Over-the-Air (OTA) testing has become essential for evaluating the performance and reliability of wireless devices, particularly in a landscape dominated by IoT and mobile technology. However, its implementation faces significant technical complexity. This complexity arises from the need for sophisticated testing environments that can accurately simulate real-world conditions, including varying signal strengths, interference and mobility scenarios. The integration of diverse communication protocols (like LTE, 5G, and Wi-Fi) adds layers of intricacy, requiring specialized equipment and expertise. The necessity for precise measurement tools and calibration methods further complicates the testing process, as inconsistencies can lead to misleading results.

Covid-19 Impact:

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted Over-the-Air (OTA) testing market. Lockdowns and social distancing measures led to the temporary closure of testing facilities, causing delays in device certifications and product launches. Remote work arrangements posed additional challenges, limiting engineers' access to testing equipment and reducing collaborative efforts essential for troubleshooting. Supply chain disruptions hindered the availability of necessary components for testing setups, further prolonging timelines. Despite these challenges, the pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital solutions, prompting some companies to explore remote OTA testing techniques and virtual collaboration tools.

The Services segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period

Services segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period as it improves the performance and reliability of wireless devices. OTA Testing involves evaluating the device's ability to communicate effectively over radio waves, simulating real-world conditions to assess signal quality, antenna performance, and overall system integration. This enhancement is crucial for ensuring that devices meet regulatory compliance and consumer expectations for connectivity, especially with the growing prevalence of IoT devices, smartphones, and automotive technologies. By implementing advanced testing methodologies, including comprehensive electromagnetic compatibility assessments and real-time data analysis.

The Aerospace and Defense segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period

Aerospace and Defense segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period. OTA testing evaluates wireless devices in real-world scenarios without the need for physical connections, simulating various environmental conditions and operational scenarios. This method is crucial for the development and validation of technologies such as radar, satellite communications, and unmanned aerial vehicles, which rely on robust and secure data transmission. By improving OTA testing capabilities, manufacturers can identify potential issues early in the design process, reduce time-to-market and enhance overall system performance. Furthermore, as the complexity of communication systems increases with the integration of 5G and IoT technologies, OTA testing provides a flexible and scalable approach to meet stringent regulatory requirements and operational standards.

Region with largest share:

North America region is poised to dominate the largest share of the Over-the-Air (OTA) Testing Market over the extrapolated period. With the proliferation of 5G networks and the Internet of Things (IoT), OTA testing has become crucial for ensuring that devices operate seamlessly in real-world conditions. These advancements enable faster and more accurate testing processes, allowing manufacturers to validate device performance in various environments without the constraints of wired setups. Enhanced testing methods, such as beamforming and MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output), allow for better assessment of signal quality and coverage, which are vital for consumer satisfaction across the region.

Region with highest CAGR:

Europe region is poised to hold substantial growth during the projected period of time by establishing stringent standards aimed at ensuring the reliability and safety of wireless communication technologies. With the rapid proliferation of connected devices, these regulations promote a uniform testing framework that manufacturers must adhere to, fostering innovation while safeguarding consumer interests. Initiatives such as the European Electronic Communications Code (EECC) and the Radio Equipment Directive (RED) are designed to streamline compliance processes ensuring that devices meet performance criteria across diverse environments.

Key players in the market

Some of the key players in Over-the-Air (OTA) Testing market include Agilent Technologies, Anritsu Corporation, Antenna Company, AT&T Labs, Bertin Technologies, Infineon Technologies, Keysight Technologies, Narda Safety Test Solutions, Nokia Corporation and Qualcomm Incorporated.

Key Developments:

In March 2024, Keysight Technologies and ETS-Lindgren announced the launch of an industry-first OTA test solution for devices using narrowband non-terrestrial networks (NB-NTN), enabling cellular communication via satellite to enhance coverage in remote areas. This joint solution combines Keysight Technologies' NTN software with ETS-Lindgren's OTA test chambers, allowing manufacturers to assess device performance and ensure compliance with regulatory standards while supporting new use cases such as asset tracking and emergency services.

In October 2023, Tessolve has announced a collaboration with Airbiquity, one of the leading providers of connected vehicle services. This partnership heralds a new era of connected vehicles with Telematics Gateways, Over-The-Air (OTA) updates, and Data Logging solutions that promise enhanced connectivity, real-time updates, and predictive maintenance capabilities, ensuring safer, smarter, and more connected vehicles for the future.

In May 2023, Bluetest AB announced the launch of the TRU2 WLAN Reference Radio for Over-the-Air (OTA) testing. This radio features 4x4 MIMO radios for multiple frequency bands and supports all legacy Wireless Local-Area Network (WLAN) standards. It also features advanced capabilities for measuring data throughput and power levels through a high-speed 10 GbE interface.

Components Covered:

• Services
• Solution

Technologies Covered:

• Wi-Fi
• Bluetooth
• Other Technologies

End Users Covered:

• Consumer Electronics
• Aerospace and Defense
• Healthcare
• Automotive
• Other End Users

Regions Covered:

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • Italy
  • France
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • Japan
  • China
  • India
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• South America
  • Argentina
  • Brazil
  • Chile
  • Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Qatar
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa

What our report offers:

• Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
• Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
• Covers Market data for the years 2022, 2023, 2024, 2026, and 2030
• Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
• Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
• Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
• Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
• Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements

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