Handheld Imagers Market Size, Share and Trends 2024 to 2034

Handheld Imagers Market Size and Forecast 2024 to 2034

The global handheld imagers market size accounted for USD 4.33 billion in 2024 and is expected to exceed around USD 11.80 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 10.54% from 2024 to 2034. The rising demand for the handheld imagers market is due to the ability to convert physical documents into digital forms to store, edit, transfer, and email digitally.

Handheld Imagers Market Key Takeaways

• North America dominated the global market with the largest market share of 46% in 2023.
• Asia Pacific is observed to be the fastest growing during the forecast period.
• By product, the stud finders segment contributed the highest market share in 2023.
• By product, the IR scanners segment is predicted to witness significant growth in the forecast period.
• By application, the security segment captured the biggest market share of 31.62% in 2023.
• By application, the medical segment is predicted to witness significant growth in the market over the forecast period.

How is AI changing the Handheld Imagers Market?

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the handheld imagers market is revolutionizing the barcode scanning technology. AI introduces an advanced level of efficiency, automation, error reduction, and predictive maintenance in industries such as retail, logistics, healthcare, and manufacturing. The most significant improvement was noticed in the ability to read damaged or incomplete barcodes. AI-powered systems analyze patterns, intelligently predict missing or damaged portions, and fill out the gaps.

• For instance, Cognex VisionPro and Zebra’s Smart lens use machine-learning algorithms to understand the characteristics of a damaged or degraded barcode. This leads to increasing read rate and operational efficiency with expensive manual interventions. Additionally, there are more innovative and time-saving integrations with the help of AI, such as image recognition, real-time inventory management and analytics, predictive maintenance, and fraud detection and authentication.

U.S. Handheld Imagers Market Size and Growth 2024 to 2034

The U.S. handheld imagers market size is exhibited at USD 1.39 billion in 2024 and is projected to be worth around USD 3.83 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 10.64% from 2024 to 2034.

North America dominated the global handheld imagers market with the largest market share in 2023. The dominance of the segment is noted due to its portability, flexibility, and convenience, which ensures users caption 3D data with precision and efficiency. In the North American region, the rising industrial demand for on-site data capture and real-time analysis, such as architecture, engineering, and construction, is propelling the growth of the market. Additionally, North America is home to major retailers such as Walmart and Amazon.

• Based on a survey conducted in 2023 in the United States, it represents 41% of people shopping groceries once a week, 29% people shopping in 2 or 3 weeks, and 6.2% people shopping grocery every day.

Asia Pacific is observed to witness notable growth in the handheld imagers market during the forecast period. The growth of this market in the region is noticed due to diverse applications across various industries. The main industries of utilization include automation, healthcare, manufacturing, and consumer electronics. The increasing trend of automation, sustainability initiatives, and advanced technology is reshaping the market, resulting in enhanced product offers via key players. Additionally, the growing demand for efficiency and performance.

Market Overview

A handheld imager is a portable device used to interpret barcodes, digitized images, and text from physical documents or objects. It converts the physical information into digital format, which makes it easier to access, edit, and share. It is equipped with sensors and optical components that translate the barcode into a readable format; it can also be stored, processed, or transmitted through a computer or other digital devices. They are usually battery-powered devices, able to scan both 1D and 2D digitalized images.

Handheld imagers are available in various shapes and sizes, such as gun-style, wand-style, and pocket size. The application of handheld scanners is commonly witnessed in the retail and logistics industries, as they scan data from barcodes on products, packages, and shipping labels. Another application is in healthcare facilities, where it tracks medical equipment and supplies. Additionally, it is useful in scanning mobile tickets and event passes for quick and efficient entry to the movies or concerts.

Handheld Imagers Market Growth Factors

• Handheld imagers offer exceptional accuracy and precision in data capture. The automated data capture process ensures the information entered into the system is accurate and improves overall operational efficiency.
• A significant amount of time is saved due to the incorporation of a handheld imager. Employees are able to quickly scan items, update inventory, and process orders with the help of handheld imagers in industries such as warehousing, retail, and logistics.
• It has the ability to capture efficient data and report to enhance business operations. This time-saving process reduces errors and accelerates reporting, enabling businesses to make informed decisions based on recorded data.
• According to a survey, the adoption of QR codes and barcodes has made a 25% incline towards sustainability. Handheld imagers contribute to sustainability by reducing the reliance on paper-based processes. Along with that, businesses can minimize paper usage, printing costs, and storage requirements.
• Handheld imagers have seamless integration and user-friendly functionality, including straightforward operating procedures, ergonomic designs, and diverse interfaces.

Market Scope

Market Dynamics

Driver

Technological advancements

The handheld imagers market is projected to grow due to technological advancements and innovations. Innovations noticed in recent times are the integration of high-resolution sensors, improved image processing algorithms, and enhanced thermal imaging capabilities, which have significant applications in various industries. Technological advancements reduce the cost of manufacturing and give access to a broader range of users. The new features, such as wireless connectivity, cloud-based data storage, and real-time analytics.

Restraint

QR code phishing

QR code phishing is a rapidly evolving threat that attacks using QR codes to trick victims into revealing sensitive information or installing malware. Scammers use QR codes in emails, text messages, social media, and public places or approach directly. To avoid such attacks from happening, install a multi-layered detection that will provide robust, real-time protection against phishing attacks of all types, focusing on the need for advanced security solutions to deal with evolving threats.

Opportunity

Augmented reality in handheld imager

Augmented reality is a futuristic concept that can be witnessed in the handheld imagers market. Initially, this concept will be introduced in the construction industry, utilizing a handheld scanner to create a 3D model of a building site, resulting in improving project planning and reducing material waste. Additionally, this incorporation will speed up the project's pace and minimize costly errors.

Product insights

The stud finders segment contributed the highest share of the handheld imagers market in 2023. The stud finder is a device used to pinpoint metal studs, nails, and screws embedded within wood buildings to locate framing studs behind the final walling. There are two main categories of stud finders: magnetic and electric. The magnetic stud finders use a magnet to locate the metal in the walling material. An electronic stud finder uses sensors to detect changes in the dielectric constant on the wall. The sensor fluctuates on the detection of the stud, displaying a lower reading.

The IR scanners segment is predicted to witness significant growth in the handheld imagers market over the forecast period. The growth of this segment is observed due to the need to confirm machinery is working normally and to detect abnormal heat patterns within the machine, indicating inefficiency and defects. In humans, the infrared scanner is used to measure body temperature.

Application Insights

The security segment captured the biggest share of the handheld imagers market in 2023. The rising preference for handheld scanners at airports, courts, malls, prisons, and defense bases is increasing the demand for this segment in the market. The handheld scanner uses an electromagnetic field to detect the metallic object present over a person. Due to the affordability factor, the use of handheld metal detectors increases the number of places to improve security, such as nightclubs, outdoor music concerts, and sports stadiums. This device easily detects knives, weapons, drugs wrapped in foil, and other metallic objects.

• In November 2024, Chennai Airport installed a 2D barcode scanner to enhance security. This initiative also prevents visitors from entering the airport with fake tickets.

The medical segment will witness significant growth in the handheld imagers market during the forecast period. The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, introducing new procedures, medicines, and regulations. The integration of a barcode scanner aids in improving the operational performance and accuracy of routine activities. The barcode technology helps professionals focus more on the patient and ensure safe and finest care. The barcode technology in healthcare offers surgical instrument identification and patient identification, ensures accurate specimen collection, reduces the risk of blood transfusing errors, and helps in tracking inventory.

Handheld Imagers Market Companies

• Hexagon Technology
• Datalogic SpA
• Honeywell International Inc
• Metoree 
• Newland EMEA
• Cognex Corporation
• RTscan Technology Limited
• Omron Automation Manufacturer
• Zebra Technologies Corporation
• Code Corporation
• Wasp Manufacturer

Latest Announcements by the Industry Leaders

• In May 2024, Pirmin Bitzi, general manager for portable measuring devices at Hexagon, commented: “Our first handheld 3D scanners enable customers to digitalize parts without worrying about fixturing or environmental conditions, and Marvelscan’s integrated photogrammetry system aligns to reference targets without the need for stickering.” He further adds, “Wireless and ergonomic, these scanners provide a seamless, instant scanning experience from the shop floor to the shipyard.”

Recent Developments

• In September 2024, NavVis, a service provider and enterprise to capture and share photorealistic digital twins, launched a new handheld scanner – the NavVis MLX. The product is designed to focus on data quality, portability, and user comfort. The MLX is fully compatible with standard tools in the field and can capture control points.
• In September 2024, SHINING 3D, a high-precision 3d scanner for industrial metrology, scientific research, digital dentistry, and other fields, launched FreeScan UE pro2, an innovative wireless multi-functional laser handheld 3D scanner. It is suitable for on-site inspections and versatile applications.
• In May 2024, Hexagon Technology, a global leader in sensor and software technologies, launched a handheld 3D scanner for manufacturing and MRO inspection in the aerospace sector. 

Segments Covered in the Report

By Product

• IR Scanners
• Stud Finders
• Millimeter Wave Scanner
• Microbolometers
• Others

By Application

• Construction
• Industry
• Security
• Medical
• Others

By Geography

• North America
• Asia Pacific
• Europe
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa