Consumption of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) in mobile handsets reached $157 million in 2005, and will exceed $1 billion by 2010, consumption, reports market researcher In-Stat in Scottsdale, Ariz.
In addition to the microphones and bulk acoustic resonators that have dominated the MEMS market to date, there are emerging opportunities for inertial sensors such as accelerometers, as well as in several types of RF components including band/mode switches, matching elements such as digital varactors, and oscillators, In-Stat analysts say.
“Although high-volume MEMS, such as microphones and bulk acoustic resonators, are cost-competitive, there are no near-term opportunities for other types of MEMS to break into the mobile handset market based on price advantage,” says In-Stat analyst Frank Dickson.
“Longer term, displays, fuel cells, and other types of MEMS devices could also develop a price advantage. However, suppliers of these devices may find a quicker path to profit in other markets that have less demanding cost and size requirements.”
The In-Stat report entitled “MEMS-Making Their Mark in Mobile Handsets” (IN0603148ESCA) found that mobile handsets, which are the largest single product market for semiconductors outside the personal computer market, are also a major opportunity for MEMS component suppliers.
MEMS mode/band switches and digital tuning will first appear in mobile handsets in 2007, followed by MEMS-based oscillators in the following year.
In the microphone area, analysts foresee continued growth based on an increasing demand for ultra-thin handsets, as well as continuing price declines.
The research includes forecasts of MEMS handset components through 2010. It also analyzes key issues, including how current MEMS applications will grow, where and why can MEMS devices replace other types of components, new features that MEMS can MEMS enable, and the limitations of MEMS.
This research is part of In-Stat’s Emerging Semiconductor Chips & Applications Service, which focuses on the new or changing critical semiconductor applications and technologies.
For more information contact In-Stat online at www.in-stat.com.
