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The earphone and headphone market size is estimated to grow by USD 20.72 billion at a CAGR of 9.84% between 2023 and 2027. Technological advancements, such as noise cancellation, improved sound quality, and wireless connectivity, are enhancing the user experience and driving demand for premium earphones and headphones. The increased use of earphones and headphones in gaming and AR-VR applications, driven by the growing popularity of gaming and immersive experiences, is also boosting market growth. Additionally, the increasing adoption of sports and fitness earphones and headphones, which offer features such as sweat resistance and secure fit, is further fueling market expansion. Overall, these factors are creating new opportunities for innovation and growth in the earphones and headphones market.
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This report extensively covers market segmentation by type (in-ear, on-ear, and over-ear), technology (wired, wireless, and TWS), and geography (APAC, North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and South America). It also includes an in-depth analysis of drivers, trends, and challenges. Furthermore, the report includes historic earphones and headphones market data from 2017 to 2021.
The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for high-quality audio and the adoption of wireless technologies. Consumers, including gym-goers, prioritize features such as sound quality, durability, and battery life. The market offers a wide range of products, including wireless earbuds and noise-canceling headphones, catering to various needs. Companies are focusing on integrating voice assistants and offering customized sound profiles to enhance the user experience.
Technological advancements for product enrichment is a key driver boosting the market growth. Earphone and headphone makers are dedicated to advancing their products. In May 2021, Noise unveiled the Flair, India's first touch-enabled Bluetooth neckband earphones, featuring touch controls on the neckband instead of the earbuds. Leading-edge technologies like AR, 3D, and AI are fueling market expansion. PLAY introduced the PlayGo BH70 in April 2020, an AI-powered noise-canceling headphone with smart touch and talk functionalities. AI enhances both audio quality and user experience. Global manufacturers are incorporating wireless charging, noise cancellation, Bluetooth 5.0, and Dolby Atmos to improve audio quality and reduce product size and weight. These advancements are particularly notable in the market for wireless earbuds and noise-canceling headphones, where durability and customer familiarity are key considerations for consumers. The high demand is leading to frequent product launches, such as Bose's Sport Open Earbuds in January 2021. These innovations are driving the global earphone and headphone market forward, with further growth anticipated in the forecast period.
The IPX-certified devices is one of the major earphone and headphone market trends shaping the market growth. The use of earphones and headphones during fitness activities in various conditions has pushed manufacturers to enhance their durability. Many have introduced new models in the global market that are sweat-proof and water-resistant, with some featuring washable ear padding. These products often carry Ingress Protection (IPX) ratings, which indicate their resistance to dust and water.
For example, IPX7-rated earbuds can withstand 30 minutes of submersion. Such water-resistant audio gear, especially those designed for sports, now offers splash resistance for outdoor use, driving demand for IPX-certified devices.
High prices associated with wireless variants are a key challenge hindering the growth of the earphones and headphones market. Wireless headphones often come with a substantial price tag, and ongoing technological advancements are likely to drive up their costs. Additionally, the increasing demand for extra features is contributing to the higher price of these headphones. The market for wireless headphones is currently experiencing growth, but many companies position their products at premium price points. This can deter consumers in developing countries from embracing these high-priced premium wireless headphones.
The rising costs associated with wireless headphones are anticipated to harm market expansion. Furthermore, existing companies will face increased implementation and acquisition expenses, which could also hinder market growth in the forecasted period.
The market share growth by the in-ear segment will be significant during the forecast period. Earphones and headphones are electronic audio gadgets that serve the purpose of enhancing the listening experience of the users. They can connect in the wired and wireless form to the source signal. The market has been segmented based on type into in-ear, on-ear, and over-ear earphones and headphones. As in-ear models fit securely in the ear, they allow users to eliminate all external noise effectively. In-ear models of earphones and headphones have witnessed high popularity among fitness enthusiasts. The in-ear earphones and headphones segment can be further divided into two types, namely, wired and wireless earphones. Technological advancements such as the emergence of notch-less smartphones are anticipated to fuel the growth of the in-ear wireless earphones segment during the forecast period.
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The in-ear segment showed a gradual increase in market share from USD 9.83 billion in 2017. Manufacturers of earphones and headphones provide their products with an ingress protection (IPX) rating. The IPX rating is a safety rating that rates earphones and headphones based on the extent of protection offered by these devices against various environmental conditions such as dust and rain. These dust and water-resistant product features, along with other technological developments, are expected to accelerate demand for in-ear earphones over the forecast period. Furthermore, our report provides a brief analysis of the historical and forecast market share and their segment, along with their reasons for growth from 2017 to 2027.
The growth of this segment is primarily attributed to the increasing adoption of earphones and headphones, which is driven by an increase in the global demand for the earphone and headphone industry.
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North America is estimated to contribute 29% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio’s analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.
North America is set to lead the market for premium earphones and headphones. The region's consumers have a strong inclination for paid digital audio subscriptions, podcasts, and active participation in fitness activities. This trend fuels sales of headphones as essential accessories, driven by the region's high demand, robust disposable incomes, and smartphone adoption.
In the US, wireless earphones and headphones represented over 70% of consumer electronic product shipments in 2020. Tech-savvy consumers in the US are increasingly embracing smart audio devices with features like noise cancellation and echo reduction. The integration of smart elements, including portability, water resistance, advanced sound control, sensors, gesture control, and extended battery life, is boosting adoption. All these factors contribute to the growth of the North American market.
Companies are implementing various strategies, such as strategic alliances, partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, geographical expansion, and product/service launches, to enhance their presence in the market.
Bose- The company offers earphones and headphones such as noise cancelling earphones, wireless earphones, sport earphones, aviation headsets, and earbuds.
Technavio has detailed analyses of the competitive landscape of the market and information about 15 market companies, including:
Qualitative and quantitative analysis of companies has been conducted to help clients understand the wider business environment as well as the strengths and weaknesses of key market players. Data is qualitatively analyzed to categorize companies as pure play, category-focused, industry-focused, and diversified; it is quantitatively analyzed to categorize companies as dominant, leading, strong, tentative, and weak.
The market report forecasts market growth by revenue at global, regional & country levels and provides an analysis of the latest trends and growth opportunities from 2017 to 2027.
The market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by technological advancements and changing consumer preferences. With the rise of 5G networks and the increasing popularity of music streaming services like Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Music, there is a growing demand for wireless headphones and earbuds that offer Bluetooth connectivity and low latency. Consumers are also seeking active noise-canceling headphones for immersive audio experiences and situational awareness. The market is further fueled by the integration of artificial intelligence and augmented reality, providing personalized audio and AR applications. Additionally, the focus on health monitoring capabilities and environmentally friendly materials is attracting fitness-conscious customers and those concerned about health and safety.
Furthermore, the market is evolving rapidly with advancements in technology and changing consumer preferences. Features such as active noise cancellation and AR integration are becoming increasingly common, enhancing the listening experience. Consumers are also looking for devices that offer high-quality audio content and are compatible with a wide range of electronic devices, including smartphones, laptops, and tablets, often preferring wireless convenience provided by Bluetooth technology. Fitness trackers and smartwatches are driving demand for fitness-focused earphones that are sweat and splash-proof. Additionally, the market is seeing growth in true wireless stereo (TWS) earbuds, catering to the needs of on-the-go consumers.
Market Scope |
|
Report Coverage |
Details |
Page number |
170 |
Base year |
2022 |
Historic period |
2017-2021 |
Forecast period |
2023-2027 |
Growth momentum & CAGR |
Accelerate at a CAGR of 9.84% |
Market growth 2023-2027 |
USD 20.72 million |
Market structure |
Fragmented |
YoY growth 2022-2023(%) |
8.92 |
Regional analysis |
North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa |
Performing market contribution |
North America at 29% |
Key countries |
US, Canada, China, India, Japan, and Germany |
Competitive landscape |
Leading Companies, Market Positioning of Companies, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks |
Key companies profiled |
Alclair Audio Inc., Apple Inc., Bose Corp., Bowers and Wilkins, GN Store Nord AS, Grado Labs Inc., JVCKENWOOD Corp., Koninklijke Philips NV, Logitech International SA, Panasonic Holdings Corp., Pioneer India Electronics Pvt. Ltd., Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., Sennheiser Electronic GmbH and Co. KG, Shure Inc., Skullcandy Inc., Sony Group Corp., Xiaomi Inc, and Zound Industries International AB |
Market dynamics |
Parent market analysis, Market Forecasting, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, Market condition analysis for the forecast period |
Customization purview |
If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized. |
We can help! Our analysts can customize this market research report to meet your requirements.
1 Executive Summary
2 Market Landscape
3 Market Sizing
4 Historic Market Size
5 Five Forces Analysis
6 Market Segmentation by Type
7 Market Segmentation by Technology
8 Customer Landscape
9 Geographic Landscape
10 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends
11 Vendor Landscape
12 Vendor Analysis
13 Appendix
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