The global ultra-thin glass market size is expected to witness a CAGR of 10.7% from 2023 to 2033. It is projected to surpass a valuation of USD 29.5 billion by 2033. The market stands at USD 10.7 billion in 2023.
The rising inclination of millennials toward foldable smartphones is also expected to push ultra-thin glass demand over the coming decade. New foldable smartphones are designed in such a way that they have ultra-thin glass sheet that offers an aesthetic appeal for customers demanding unique products. Millennials are expected to purchase these as they want to stand out from the conventional flat phones.
Smartphone companies such as Samsung and Oppo are expected to launch several models of foldable phones by 2033. This is due to the fact that these companies often strive to remain at the forefront of technological innovations. This is also projected to positively influence their brand image.
As foldable smartphones are usually more expensive than conventional flat-screen phones, they are considered a status symbol for several people. Hence, such phones are likely to be sold under premium brands.
The OnePlus Fold, OnePlus's eagerly awaited foldable smartphone, will soon be available. The business might introduce its first folding gadget in 2023. Even though OnePlus hasn't formally announced the launch, it is certain that the impending phone will hit the market. It might be able to take on long-standing competitors such as Samsung and Motorola, which have been active in the foldable phone sector for years.
In contrast to metropolitan areas, remote areas and non-metros are experiencing increased adoption of Samsung's foldable and flip phones. As there are now more financing alternatives available, purchasing these cell phones has become simpler.
In August 2023, Samsung asserted that 1,50,000 pre-orders had been placed for its fifth-generation foldable smartphones, which were introduced in India in July. The Galaxy Z Fold5 is aimed toward corporate customers, whereas the Galaxy Z Flip5 appeals to a younger demographic.
In traditional flat phones, materials such as polymer and plastic were used due to their affordability. However, smartphone manufacturers are using ultra-thin glass in foldable phones as it is highly durable. Thin tempered glass/micro-thin glass or thin flexible glass are used for these phone screens. These can tolerate repeated unfolding and folding activities without damaging the screen.
All these above-mentioned factors are expected to propel sales of ultra-thin glass.
Ultra-thin Glass Market Insights:
| Attributes | Key Insights |
|---|---|
| Ultra-thin Glass Market Size (2022A) | USD 9.5 billion |
| Estimated Market Size (2023E) | USD 10.7 billion |
| Projected Market Valuation (2033F) | USD 29.5 billion |
| Value-based CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 10.7% |
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The global market exhibited a robust CAGR of 13.7% during the historical period between 2018 and 2022. It is expected to grow at a 10.7% CAGR over the forecast period.
| HCAGR | 13.7% |
|---|---|
| CAGR | 10.7% |
The global healthcare sector has been showcasing considerable growth in recent years. Leading medical device manufacturers are using ultra-thin glass in diagnostic tools, imaging equipment, and wearable devices to enhance remote patient monitoring.
Ultra-thin glass manufacturers are set to team up with government agencies in several countries. They might take the initiatives to use their product in the agriculture sector.
Newly developed and improved ultra-thin glass is expected to help in creating new opportunities in the agriculture sector worldwide. Owing to its excellent insulating features, this type of glass is gaining prominence in industries. Greenhouse owners are also projected to find the use of this type of glass to boost the growth of their plants. These factors are expected to drive growth in the ultra-thin glass market.
Current field research & development efforts are anticipated to offer promising commercial potential.
Increasing use of ultra-thin glass in smartwatches to enhance their durability is another vital factor driving the ultra-thin glass market growth. Several companies are launching new smartwatches with innovative features to compete with their rivals in the ultra-thin glass market.
Owing to the aforementioned factors, the ultra-thin glass market is set to reach a valuation of USD 29.5 billion by 2033.
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Principal Consultant
The table below highlights the market size and CAGRs of the top 5 countries in the ultra-thin glass market. Among them, the ultra-thin glass market in China is anticipated to remain at the forefront by surpassing a valuation of USD 6.4 billion by 2033, followed by Japan.
| Countries | Market Valuation (2033) |
|---|---|
| United States | USD 5.4 billion |
| United Kingdom | USD 1.2 billion |
| China | USD 6.4 billion |
| Japan | USD 5.7 billion |
| South Korea | USD 1.5 billion |
In the table below, CAGRs of the top 5 countries are provided. Out of these, the United States market is expected to grow rapidly at a CAGR of 10.6% through 2033. Followed by these, the markets in the United Kingdom and South Korea are expected to witness CAGRs of 10.4% and 10.2%, respectively, over the forecast period.
| Countries | Value-based CAGR (2023 to 2033) |
|---|---|
| United States | 10.6% |
| United Kingdom | 10.4% |
| China | 10.6% |
| Japan | 10.6% |
| South Korea | 10.2% |
The United States ultra-thin glass market is anticipated to be valued at USD 5.4 billion from 2023 to 2033. It is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.6% through 2033.
Skyrocketing demand for electromobility and electric vehicles (EVs) in the United States is projected to augment the growth of the target market. Manufacturers prefer lightweight materials such as ultra-thin glass for the production of EV components.
Such materials are also anticipated to provide an extended battery life and enhanced fuel efficiency. Leading EV manufacturers are increasingly adopting ultra-thin glass for making windows, displays, and touchscreens to refine aesthetics and driving experience.
The United Kingdom ultra-thin glass market is expected to reach USD 1.2 billion by 2033. The ultra-thin glass market is expected to record a CAGR of 10.4% over the forecast period.
Real estate agencies in the United Kingdom are expected to invest in smart city innovations over the coming decade. Hence, ultra-thin glass demand is anticipated to increase with the development of urban information hubs, public transportation displays, and smart kiosks.
Since the pandemic, several renowned companies have implemented the work-from-home policy for their employees. As remote work culture expands, demand for unique collaboration and video conferencing software & tools might rise. This is set to create new opportunities for ultra-glass companies as they can launch new products to boost their market presence.
The emergence of digital classrooms, robust e-learning devices, and interactive whiteboards in the United Kingdom is another factor pushing the demand further. The rising need to improve the learning and teaching experience among students and teachers is expected to generate higher demand.
The ultra-thin glass market in China is expected to gain a complete financial prospect of USD 6.4 billion by 2033. The market is expected to witness a CAGR of 10.6% during the projected period.
Growth of agriculture has long been a top goal for the Government of China. Since 1978, the country has been executing a program of gradual change and opening up. This has hastened the development and reform of the agriculture sector. The government has adhered to the practice of giving work related to agriculture, rural areas, and farmers priority, especially in recent years.
The country’s initiatives to enhance crop yield and simplify agriculture with modern technology are expected to fuel ultra-thin glass sales. These might be used in cutting-edge agriculture solutions, surveillance tools, and unique sensors.
The ultra-thin glass market in Japan is expected to generate a total monetary potential of USD 5.7 billion by 2033. The ultra-thin glass market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 10.6% through 2033.
Japan’s ever-evolving entertainment and gaming sectors are projected to contribute to the market’s growth. The use of ultra-thin glass in augmented or virtual reality devices, immersive displays, and gaming equipment is expected to boost sales. At the same time, these glasses are set to be used in malls across the country.
The country is also renowned for precision manufacturing with rising sales of scientific devices, precision instruments, and optics. Key companies are set to use ultra-thin glasses for producing mirrors and lenses.
The consumer electronics sector in Japan is constantly expanding. The country houses diverse electronics manufacturers that strive to produce efficient and portable devices. High demand for wearable devices, laptops, cameras, and smartphones is projected to push sales of ultra-thin glass for making sensors and displays.
The South Korea ultra-thin glass market is expected to obtain a valuation of USD 1.5 billion by 2033. The ultra-thin glass market is estimated to progress at a CAGR of 10.2% during the forecast period.
Demand for ultra-thin glass is anticipated to surge in South Korea with increasing demand for e-learning services, digital classrooms, and online learning tools. The country is expected to focus on providing quality education, thereby boosting the ultra-thin glass market.
In terms of manufacturing process, the float segment is likely to witness a CAGR of 10.2% through 2033. It expanded at a considerable CAGR of 13.5% during the historical period.
| Top Manufacturing Process | Float |
|---|---|
| Value-based CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 10.2% |
The popularity of the float ultra-thin glass manufacturing process is set to surge with constant research & development activities worldwide. These have led to the optimization of this process, thereby driving demand. This type of glass is expected to have similar bending properties as that of paper.
Demand for modern infrastructure is projected to skyrocket among millennial consumers who are influenced by social media. They are set to look for glass-intensive structures that might require superior-quality glass sheets. It is further estimated to propel the segment’s growth in the market.
The float glass manufacturing process is also expected to gain momentum due to the rising environmental concerns. As this process uses less energy and generates less waste, its adoption rate is expected to expand. Key companies are likely to use this process to keep up with their sustainable production goals.
In terms of thickness, the less than 0.1 mm segment is expected to register a CAGR of 10% during the assessment period. It grew at a CAGR of 13.3% during the historical period.
| Top Thickness | Less than 0.1 mm |
|---|---|
| Value-based CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 10% |
Ultra-thin glasses with a thickness of less than 0.1 mm, are set to find extensive use in medical equipment such as microscopes and endoscopes. These are expected to provide high clarity and compactness, thereby proving to be convenient for doctors.
These also find applications in wearable devices such as smart eyewear, fitness trackers, and smartwatches. Consumers are now looking for comfortable and lightweight devices, which require the use of thin materials such as ultra-thin glass.
Virtual reality and augmented reality headsets are gaining prominence among gamers worldwide. These are often equipped with robust and lightweight displays that can be smoothly incorporated into headsets.
Glass with less than 0.1 mm thickness provides a novel solution for gaining mesmerizing experiences. These aspects are projected to accelerate growth in the ultra-thin glass market.
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The global ultra-thin glass market is highly fragmented with the presence of several small- and large-scale companies. They are mainly focusing on creating innovative products to cater to the changing ultra-thin glass demands.
Leading ultra-thin glass market players are coming up with novel technologies to upgrade their products in the smartphone manufacturing sector. The high demand for foldable smartphones is set to create new opportunities for them. A handful of ultra-thin glass market participants are also conducting research & development activities to pave the way to success.
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| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Market Size (2023) | USD 10.7 billion |
| Projected Market Valuation (2033) | USD 29.5 billion |
| Value-based CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 10.7% |
| Historical Data | 2018 to 2022 |
| Forecast Period | 2023 to 2033 |
| Quantitative Units | Value (USD billion) |
| Segments Covered | Manufacturing Process, Thickness, Application, End Use, Region |
| Regions Covered | North America; Latin America; East Asia; South Asia Pacific; Western Europe; Eastern Europe; Middle East & Africa |
| Key Countries Covered | United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Germany, Italy, France, United Kingdom, Spain, Russia, GCC Countries, India, China, Japan and Australia |
| Key Companies Profiled | Aeon Glass (Aeon Industries Corp., Ltd); Air-Craftglass Inc.; Asahi Glass Co., Ltd; AvanStrate Inc. |
The ultra-thin glass market is valued at USD 10.7 billion in 2023.
The ultra-thin glass market is set to expand at a 10.7% CAGR through 2033.
The ultra-thin glass market exhibited a CAGR of 13.7% during the historical period.
The ultra-thin glass market in Japan is estimated to record a CAGR of 10.6% by 2033.
The segment with less than 0.1 mm is expected to witness a CAGR of 10%.
China is expected to be a leading player in the global market, reaching USD 6.4 billion by 2033.
1. Executive Summary 2. Market Overview 3. Market Background 4. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033 5. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Manufacturing Process 5.1. Float 5.2. Fusion 5.3. Other Manufacturing Processes 6. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Thickness 6.1. Less Than 0.1 mm 6.2. 0.1 to 0.5 mm 6.3. 0.5 to 1.0 mm 6.4. 1.0 to 1.2 mm 7. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Application 7.1. Touch Panel Displays 7.2. Semiconductor Substrates 7.3. Fingerprint Sensors 7.4. Other Applications 8. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By End Use 8.1. Consumer Electronics 8.2. Automotive & Transportation 8.3. Medical & Healthcare 8.4. Other End Uses 9. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Region 9.1. North America 9.2. Latin America 9.3. Western Europe 9.4. Eastern Europe 9.5. South Asia and Pacific 9.6. East Asia 9.7. Middle East and Africa 10. North America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country 11. Latin America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country 12. Western Europe Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country 13. Eastern Europe Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country 14. South Asia and Pacific Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country 15. East Asia Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country 16. Middle East and Africa Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country 17. Key Countries Market Analysis 18. Market Structure Analysis 19. Competition Analysis 19.1. Aeon Glass - Aeon Industries Corp. 19.2. Air-Craftglass Inc. 19.3. Asahi Glass Co. 19.4. AvanStrate Inc. 19.5. AviationGlass & Technology BV 19.6. Central Glass Co. 19.7. Changzhou Almaden Co. 19.8. China National Building Material Co. 19.9. Corning 19.10. CSG Holding Co. Ltd. 19.11. Emerge Glass India Pvt. Ltd. 19.12. Hilgenberg GmbH 19.13. Hoya Corporation USA Optics Division 19.14. Huihua Glass Co. 19.15. Luoyang Glass Co. 19.16. Nippon Electric Glass Co. 19.17. Nippon Sheet Glass Co. 19.18. Nitto Boseki Co. 19.19. Noval Glass Group Ltd. 19.20. Runtai Industry Co. 20. Assumptions & Acronyms Used 21. Research Methodology
Chemicals & Materials
February 2023
REP-GB-167
325 pages
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Ultra-thin Glass Market
