The electronics manufacturing industry truly lived up to its innovative reputation in 2022. For instance, the internet of things (IoT) prompted rapid development in an already advanced landscape. Furthermore, this took place against the backdrop of widespread disruption. This clearly illustrates the remarkable resilience of the industry, which shows no signs of wavering today. Meanwhile, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are still keen to gain a competitive edge. This is despite persistent challenges like the global chip shortage. Consequently, some common themes are already emerging. First, the climate crisis and consumer demand are forcing manufacturers to produce more sustainable electronics. Equally, the need to adapt to problematic supply chains has led manufacturers to adapt their operations. As a result, we can expect this year’s most significant technologies to advance even further. Therefore, here are the top electronics industry trends we predict will dominate in 2023.

Huge strides were made in the rollout of 5G this year. However, it looks like even bigger ones will be taken in 2023. This ensures that its more powerful successor is launched soon. Currently, India leads the way for the development of 6G connectivity. With speeds up to 200 times faster than current standards, 6G is urgently needed. It effectively supports the electronics industry’s increased reliance on massive data. Furthermore, we expect 6G to prove most beneficial in transportation. For example, 6G-connected automated vehicles will gain enhanced communication and integrated sensing capabilities. This allows for much more efficient fuel usage. Additionally, in manufacturing, energy usage can be monitored more accurately via 6G-enabled operations.

Data scientists are currently working on integrating smart features into everyday electronics. This is largely thanks to our demonstrated reliance on such devices during the pandemic. Moreover, the continuation of flexible and remote working policies drives this innovation. Consequently, smart offices will be the first to pick up speed in 2023. They will be fully equipped with features such as smart access control. In this system, smartphones will replace key fobs and cards for added convenience. As a result, businesses can save money without compromising security. Furthermore, we will also see a rise in eco-friendly lighting solutions next year. A great example is human-centric lighting (HLC). HLC can automatically adjust lighting settings based on factors like occupancy and ambient light. Ultimately, this helps improve working conditions for increased productivity.

Forward-thinking businesses used data to closely track post-pandemic consumer habits this year. For instance, this facilitated highly personalised online shopping experiences in retail. Similarly, it enabled accurate and reliable remote patient monitoring in healthcare. In 2023, we can expect digitisation to continue rapidly. Consequently, more manual tasks will be handed over to data-driven, automated machines. For example, remote stock monitoring will allow manufacturers to easily track product availability in real-time. This is crucial amidst supply chain issues and component shortages.

Modern electronics manufacturers risk falling victim to faulty components in the ‘grey market’. Therefore, they need to ensure they do not produce defective products. Going forward, machine learning (ML) tools will help provide more accurate quality control. They effectively remove the risk of human error or complacency. Consequently, this leads to significant monetary savings and added supply chain resilience. Although ML will streamline operations across the board, change will be most prevalent in the marine industry. Here, ML will help computers powering autonomous vessels make informed decisions. They will carefully plan shipping routes and manoeuvres for improved collision avoidance. Ultimately, this will be instrumental to the widespread uptake of electric and hybrid ships.

This year, augmented reality (AR) technology has extended to a broad range of industries. It has moved far past the gaming sector as cutting-edge products hit the market. For example, immersive AR headsets have allowed surgeons to analyse 3D reconstructions. They can study MRI and CT scans whilst reviewing complex surgical plans. Thus, they streamline workflows and make remote training highly effective. The AR and VR healthcare market is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 30.2% until 2028. Furthermore, some of the most significant developments are expected in mental health treatment. In this sector, anxiety-inducing scenarios can be safely recreated remotely in VR. This serves as a lower-cost alternative to in-person treatment. Additionally, headsets will be used to make prescribed exercises more engaging in rehabilitation.

The need for speed in today’s competitive electronics industry can be granted with 3D printing. This technology enables manufacturers to churn out prototypes much faster than traditional methods. Moreover, 3D printing is incredibly efficient in terms of material usage. This means waste is kept to an absolute minimum. Consequently, this is a considerable benefit when supply chain issues cause shortages. Additionally, OEMs will be drawn to 3D printing for its ability to facilitate customised products. After all, there is a rapidly growing need for this across all industries. One of the key factors driving the anticipated £26.2 million ($31.8 million) market revenue by 2023 is the demand for low-volume production. This includes lightweight products in parts of industrial electronics, such as aerospace and defence.

Finally, the mass growth of the internet of things (IoT) market will continue well into next year. Businesses will undoubtedly continue to leverage it to find better ways to manage data. As a result, OEMs across all sectors can expect increasing customer demand. This ranges from healthcare and security to automotive and transportation. Consequently, they must rapidly incorporate IoT-connected sensors into all sorts of devices.

We keep our finger on the pulse to ensure we provide the most up-to-date manufacturing services. To discuss how we can expertly help with your next project, simply contact us at +44 (0)1256 461894 or email sales@ec.local.