Near Infrared Imaging Market Assessment, By Products [Devices, Reagents], By Application [Preclinical Imaging, Cardiovascular Surgeries, Gastrointestinal Surgeries, Cancer Surgeries, Plastic/Reconstructive Surgeries, Others] By End-user [Hospitals and Cli

Global near infrared (NIR) imaging market is projected to witness a CAGR of 7.21% during the forecast period 2025-2032, growing from USD 1.84 billion in 2024 to USD 3.21 billion in 2032. The market is driven by several factors, including the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular conditions, and neurological disorders, which have increased the demand for advanced imaging technologies.

Near-infrared imaging is an invisible imaging technique that uses near-infrared light to view the structural function and activity inside the tissue or objects. The global near-infrared imaging market is expected to grow robustly due to several key factors. Increasing prevalence of chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular, and neurological disorders. Moreover, advanced imaging solutions can improve diagnostic and treatment outcomes. With technological developments such as artificial intelligence and the addition of advanced fluorescent agents, the performance of the visualization system is almost improved in infrared form, and implementation in various healthcare applications is supplied. Additionally, the increased utilization of NIR imaging in minimally invasive and image-guided surgeries, especially in oncology and reconstructive procedures, is driving market growth. For instance, in May 2023, Specie, Spectral Imaging Ltd., introduced the GX17, a next-gen NIR hyperspectral camera for industrial machine vision. It offers 480 pixels and an 800 Hz frame rate and delivers the best cost-performance ratio for high-volume applications. Operating in the 950-1700 nm range, the GX17 enables precise inspection and sorting, detecting details as small as 1mm, which is ideal for fast-moving systems like food and waste sorting.

Increasing Prevalence of Chronic Diseases Boosts Market Growth

The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological disorders is a major growth factor for the global near infrared imaging market. These diseases demand advanced diagnostic and therapeutic solutions, making NIR imaging, which can provide non-invasive and high-resolution images, an extremely useful tool for early detection, surgical guidance, and monitoring disease progression. The growing healthcare burden associated with chronic diseases is forcing healthcare providers to adopt more efficient and accurate imaging technologies, resulting in an increased demand for NIR imaging. With an aging global population and increasing incidence of chronic diseases, growth is expected in the near-infrared imaging market. For instance, in February 2024, trinamiX GmbH unveiled its Consumer Spectroscopy solution at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, featuring the world’s first miniaturized near-infrared spectrometer integrated into a smartphone reference design powered by Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. Operating in the 1-3 µm range, the spectrometer enables non-invasive biomarker analysis for health and beauty applications.

Advancements in Imaging Technologies Drive Market Growth

Advancements in imaging technologies are major growth drivers for the global near-infrared imaging market. Incorporating cutting-edge innovations such as artificial intelligence, improved fluorescence agents, and high-resolution sensors enhanced NIR imaging systems' accuracy, sensitivity, and real-time capabilities. Technological advances allow for more accurate diagnostics, especially in complex medical applications such as oncology, neurology, and cardiovascular imaging. Portable and low-cost solutions for NIR imaging are bringing the market within the reach of different settings, including hospitals and point-of-care facilities. Therefore, the prospects of this technology further improve the demands for NIR imaging as the advancement in imaging technology progresses. For instance, in April 2024, Metrohm AG expanded its OMNIS platform with NIRS technology, enabling fast, non-destructive chemical analysis. OMNIS near-infrared imaging platform is available in three versions: Liquid (for liquids), Solid (for solids and viscous samples), and Liquid/Solid (for both types). The OMNIS NIR Analyzer delivers multi-parameter results in under 10 seconds. Advanced sensor technology ensures precise temperature control for liquids (25-80°C) and automated rotation for solids, guaranteeing reproducibility even with inhomogeneous samples. Ideal for rapid, high-throughput analysis with minimal user interaction.

Preclinical Imaging Segment to Dominate the Near Infrared Imaging Market

The preclinical imaging segment is expected to dominate the global near-infrared imaging market, with rising demand for advanced imaging solutions primarily in drug discovery, disease modeling, and preclinical research expected to drive market growth. Near-infrared imaging is a high-resolution, non-invasive, real-time technique for visualizing biological processes. As such, they play an important role in early-stage research for evaluating treatment efficacy and monitoring disease progression. Their high sensitivity and specificity in tracking molecular and cellular activity enhance their utility in preclinical research, especially in the areas of oncology, neurology, and cardiovascular research. The demand for efficient and accurate preclinical imaging technologies, especially with pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies continuing to focus on developing novel therapeutics, is going to propel significant growth in this segment. For instance, in September 2024, Photon Etc. launched LightIR, an advanced near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging system for preclinical and clinical research. NIR-I and NIR-II capabilities provide high-resolution imaging and deep tissue penetration. Compatible with various fluorescent agents, LightIR supports a wide range of studies, from small animal research to clinical trials, enhancing imaging for fluorescence-guided surgery and translational research.

North America Dominates the Global Near Infrared Imaging Market

North America is expected to dominate the global near-infrared imaging market due to the advanced nature of healthcare infrastructure in this particular region, the high adoption of cutting-edge medical technology, and the strong presence of leaders in the industry. The higher prevalence of chronic conditions and advancements in research and development activities in the region fuel the demand for NIR image systems. Another reason for the rising adoption of NIR imaging technologies is that the region focuses on early disease detection, personalized medicine, and minimally invasive procedures. Additionally, North America benefits from favorable government regulations, reimbursement policies, and a well-established healthcare ecosystem, positioning it as a leader in the global NIR imaging market. For instance, in July 2024, Kent Imaging, Inc. announced FDA clearance of the SnapshotNIR KD205, a non-invasive near-infrared spectroscopy device for tissue assessment. The updated model measures tissue oxygen saturation, oxyhemoglobin, and deoxyhemoglobin across most Fitzpatrick skin type scale skin tones. Featuring enhanced sensitivity to melanin, the KD205 delivers accurate, repeatable results, expanding the technology's application to a broader patient population. With a user-friendly interface and portability, it provides actionable tissue viability insights for physicians and patients across diverse demographics.

Future Market Scenario (2025-2032F)

The future market scenario for near-infrared imaging globally shows robust market growth due to continuous enhancements in imaging technology, a rise in demand for non-invasive diagnostic devices, and the widening range of industrial applications. This will continuously boost growth through the growing healthcare sector, especially within oncology, neurology, and cardiovascular imaging, because NIR imaging proves to be indispensable for early disease detection, surgical guidance, and personalized treatment. The integration of AI and machine learning in NIR systems will be driving the accuracy of diagnostics along with a scope of widening applications. The global NIR imaging market is likely to continue growing in the future as innovation continues and adoption increases. For instance, in April 2024, LI-COR Biotech, LLC, a leader in life science instrumentation, introduced the Odyssey F biomolecular imaging systems. These next-generation systems deliver faster scans, enhanced assay support, and unmatched dynamic range for data reliability. Designed for versatility, they offer advanced imaging speed and multiplexing in both visible and near-infrared ranges, meeting evolving research needs.

Key Players Landscape and Outlook

The global near-infrared imaging market is shaped by strategic initiatives such as mergers, acquisitions, and collaborations among key players, driving innovation and growth. Regulatory approvals for new products further enhance market expansion, positioning NIR imaging for continued development and increased adoption across various sectors.

For instance, in September 2024, Hinalea Imaging Corp. introduced the Model 4300, a VSWIR hyperspectral camera covering 500-1700nm, expanding its intelligent imaging product range. Designed for agrifood and industrial inspections, it captures 300 spectral bands at 1.34 MP resolution. The Model 4300 uses a front-staring multiple-band sequential approach, eliminating mechanical scanning. Key benefits include high spectral and spatial performance, real-time classification, image uniformity, and application flexibility, all at an affordable price with integrated software and machine learning models.