Quantum sensing is an innovative approach in measurement technology that makes it possible to precisely measure fundamental physical quantities such as time, motion, gravity, electric and magnetic fields, electricity and light at the atomic and subatomic level. The report ‘Quantum Sensors Market 2025-2045: Technology, Trends, Players, Forecasts’ by IDTechEx provides a comprehensive analysis of this technology, forecasting a market value of 2.2 billion US dollars in 2045 and an annual growth rate of 11.4%.
The quantum physical quality
Quantum sensors owe their name to their ability to perform measurements in the realm of quantum physics. Unlike classical sensors, which are often based on macroscopic phenomena, quantum sensors detect atomic and subatomic processes. This property results in exceptionally high sensitivity, which is several orders of magnitude greater than that of conventional sensors. This increased performance is also reflected in the market value, since quality and precision are prioritised over quantity here.
Three key elements of the quantum sensor market
IDTechEx divides the quantum sensor market into three basic categories:
- Physical quantities: The measurement of specific physical quantities is of central importance for technology developers, as it allows direct conclusions to be drawn about the performance and investment potential of the respective sensors. The physical quantity therefore serves as a central criterion for evaluating and classifying the technologies.
- Systems and materials: Quantum sensors are based on complex systems in which the materials and components used are crucial. The manufacturing processes and technological challenges are often analysed in comparison to existing solutions in order to identify competitive advantages and potential for improvement.
- Industrial applications: The various fields of application range from consumer electronics and the automotive sector to specialised areas such as biomedical imaging and quantum information technology. The specific requirements and market trends in these industries have a significant influence on the development and dissemination of quantum sensors.
Diverse technologies and applications
IDTechEx’s report covers a wide range of quantum sensors. Examples of timing systems include:
- Table-top alkaline atomic clocks
- Rack-mountable optical atomic clocks
- Chip-scale alkaline atomic clocks
In the field of magnetic field measurement, established technologies such as SQUIDs (superconducting quantum interference devices), optically pumped magnetometers (OPMs) and NV diamond magnetometers (NVMs) are considered. In addition, quantum gravimeters, inertial quantum sensors, RF quantum sensors and single-photon detectors are also discussed, which underlines the broad applicability of these sensors.
Market forecasts and future developments
Tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) sensors represent a central field of application. According to forecasts, around 33 billion TMR magnetic field sensors will be in use by 2045 – making them the dominant segment in the quantum sensor market. Thanks to their cost-efficient, chip-based design, TMR sensors are already widely used in high-volume markets such as consumer electronics and the automotive industry.
In addition to TMR sensors, the use of other quantum sensors will also increase sharply. It is expected that an additional 8.3 million quantum sensors (excluding TMR) will be put into operation. Atomic clocks, which play an important role in autonomous vehicles, will account for the largest market share. They are closely followed by single-photon detectors, which are used in quantum computing, and magnetic field sensors, which are used in both biomedical imaging and quantum computing.
Summary
Advances in quantum sensing are opening up new perspectives for the precise measurement of fundamental physical quantities. IDTechEx’s report provides an in-depth insight into technological developments, market segments and future trends. The combination of high sensitivity, versatile applications and continuous technological improvements positions quantum sensors as a key factor in a wide range of industries. Further details and in-depth information are available on the IDTechEx website.
