Laser technology is reshaping manufacturing operations and data acquisition by harnessing the power of light. In this industry research, we delve into the cutting-edge trends that propel laser technology forward, revolutionizing industries across domains. From precision manufacturing to rapid data acquisition, we unveil the breakthroughs that actively shape the future of laser technology. Explore the top 10 laser industry trends from smart lasers to hybrid laser systems and augmented reality (AR)-based laser scanning that enhances efficiency and precision.
Innovation Map outlines the Top 10 Laser Technology Trends & 20 Promising Startups
For this in-depth research on the top recent trends in laser technology, we analyzed a sample of 1570 global startups & scaleups. This data-driven research provides innovation intelligence that helps you improve strategic decision-making by giving you an overview of emerging technologies in the laser industry. In the Laser Technology Innovation Map, you get a comprehensive overview of the laser innovations, trends, & startups that impact your company.
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These insights are derived by working with our Big Data & Artificial Intelligence-powered StartUs Insights Discovery Platform, covering 3 790 000+ startups & scaleups globally. As the world’s largest resource for data on emerging companies, the SaaS platform enables you to identify relevant technologies and industry trends quickly & exhaustively.
Tree Map reveals the Impact of the Top 10 Trends in Laser Technology
Based on the Laser Industry Innovation Map, the Tree Map below illustrates the impact of the Top 10 Innovative Laser Trends in 2024. Startups and innovative companies are developing new technologies and solutions to optimize laser performance with the use of high-power diodes. Other advanced processes such as hybrid lasers, microlasers, and quantum lasers pave the way for modern manufacturing with higher efficiency. Also, LiDAR enables remote sensing and uses laser light to measure distances and create high-resolution 3D maps for industries like automotive and additive manufacturing. Other major trends in the laser industry include 3D printing, smart laser systems, and AR laser scanning. Additionally, laser-guided machines and advances in materials science lead to improved efficiency across industries.
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Top 10 Trends in the Laser Industry (2024)
- Laser-enabled 3D Printing
- Laser Communication
- High-Power Diodes
- AR Laser Scanning
- LiDAR Technology
- Smart Lasers
- Quantum Laser Systems
- Microlasers
- Hybrid Lasers
- Laser-Guided Machining
Global Startup Heat Map covers Laser Technology Startups & Scaleups
The Global Startup Heat Map below highlights the global distribution of the 1570 exemplary startups & scaleups that we analyzed for this research. Created through the StartUs Insights Discovery Platform, the Heat Map reveals high startup activity in Western Europe, followed by India, China, and the USA. Below, you get to meet 20 out of these 1570 promising startups & scaleups as well as the solutions they develop. These laser technology startups are hand-picked based on criteria such as founding year, location, funding raised, & more. Depending on your specific needs, your top picks might look entirely different.
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Top 10 Trends in Laser Technologies
1. Laser-Enabled 3D Printing
Laser-enabled 3D printing, also known as laser sintering, uses a laser source to selectively fuse powdered materials together and create components and objects. Industries like aerospace, automotive, and medicine are major adopters of this technology as it offers high precision. Using laser-powered additive manufacturing, businesses also create complex geometries and are able to use a wide range of materials. It offers the ability to create complex and intricate designs and reduces waste and material usage in parts production. Laser-enabled 3D printing helps in achieving higher accuracy and stronger builds in the manufacturing process with improved efficiency and flexibility.
Nobula 3D enables 3D Glass Printing
Swedish startup Nobula 3D manufactures 3D glass printers to produce 3D glass structures. Its 3D printers utilize direct glass laser deposition (DGLD) technology. The printer also uses multi-component filaments to maximize printing flexibility and consistency in diverse applications. Nobula 3D caters to medical, solid-state batteries, art, and jewelry industries by providing a 3D glass printer that supports multi-component filaments.
Cyber POD offers Print-On-Demand Solutions
Cyber POD is a Lithuanian startup that provides print-on-demand solutions for electronics. The startup’s autonomous machine for rapid prototyping and cell-based fabrication makes printed circuit boards (PCB). For this, it leverages laser sintering and structuring on 3D-printed dielectric and conductive materials. This provides PCB manufacturers with flexibility, precision, and cost-effectiveness.
2. Laser Communication
Laser communication is a free-space optical communication technology that utilizes lasers to transmit data over long distances. The technology is gaining popularity over traditional radio waves-based communication methods. It utilizes efficient modulation techniques and multiple beams to increase data transmission reliability, finding applications in space exploration and military operations. Additionally, novel communication systems deploy high-powered lasers to transmit data at extremely high speeds, making it an ideal solution for applications that require high bandwidth. Higher data rates, improved security, and immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI) improve satellite-to-ground and ground-to-satellite communications.
SpaceRake advances Satellite Data Communications
US-based startup SpaceRake makes satellite data more accessible using laser-powered communication. It utilizes miniaturized laser systems for satellites to connect simultaneously to terminals through space and ground networks. This technology offers visible imagery as well as short and long-wave infrared images for tracking vegetation health. This allows SpaceRake to streamline access to earth observation data for both government and commercial providers.
Astrolight develops Space-To-Ground Laser Communication Solutions
Astrolight is a startup from Lithuania that makes space-to-ground laser communication solutions. It offers Atlas-1, space-to-Earth laser communication terminals that use a portable optical ground station for laser communication with LEO satellites. Also, the terminals offer resilience against jamming, hacking, and spoofing. Astrolight’s solutions connect Earth and space with high-speed laser links, enabling satellite connectivity for deep space exploration.
3. High-Power Diodes
High-power diodes enable lasers to produce high-intensity light beams and are hence a crucial component of numerous laser systems. They extend the range of applications of lasers from industrial cutting and welding to medical procedures and scientific research. High-power diodes also withstand high temperatures and stresses, making them a reliable and efficient source of laser power. Further, advances in semiconductor technology simplify the development of high-power diodes that are smaller, more efficient, and cost-effective.
AeroDIODE offers Precision Optoelectronics
French startup AeroDIODE manufactures precision optoelectronics solutions based on photonics components like laser diodes and other fiber-coupled devices. Its high-power pulsed laser diode generates nanosecond range optical pulses out of a multimode fiber. The solution also includes a synchronization tool to generate pulses and burst configuration for LiDAR, laser diode camera synchronization, and special lighting. AeroDIODE helps scientific and aerospace industries by providing reliable, flexible, and easy-to-integrate lasers for test beds and experimental progress.
Omega Photonics Systems provides Advanced Photonics Solutions
US-based startup Omega Photonics Systems offers photonics solutions using simulation technology. It makes multi-beam solutions and mode conversion modules for high-power solid-state and fiber lasers. The startup develops Laser Processing Module (LPM), a software-integrated scanner and sensor for cleaning in robotics systems. The startup’s other product, Surface Processing Module (SPM), is an integrated optics and software solution for surface patterning. Omega Photonics Systems provides greener photonics solutions with laser cleaning and surface patterning for defense, aerospace, automotive, and energy applications.
4. AR Laser Scanning
In recent years, laser technology has become increasingly popular in the field of augmented reality (AR). AR systems need a scanning tool to create precise and accurate 3D models of the environment. Lasers, along with LiDAR sensors, computer vision, and machine learning algorithms, enable AR devices to accurately map and track the surroundings and objects. The technology caters to the gaming, entertainment, industrial, and medical sectors, offering real-time guidance, interaction, and simulations. This further opens up point cloud processing, AR overlays, and visualization in displays, AR headsets, and more.
Harbour AR builds Underwater Lasers
Estonian startup Harbour AR builds underwater lasers to increase safety in harbors. It uses laser technology and augmented reality to project harbor lines and display clearly visible overlay of maritime navigation marks on the water. The startup develops proprietary laser projection units to install on existing harbor superstructures and stationary maritime navigation signs like lighthouses. Harbour AR allows harbors to prevent collisions and reduce the environmental impacts due to navigational errors.
POINTAR offers Laser-based Teleoperation Solutions
POINTAR is a startup from Israel that makes teleoperation solutions equipped with reliable smart-pointing systems projected directly onto the physical target. The startup leverages AR devices with remote expert support to provide necessary information to field technicians. Additionally, remote experts guide the technician with the help of a laser projected directly on a physical object or target with micro-level accuracy. POINT-AR delivers remote assistance for operations, training, and maintenance in complex environments to reduce downtime and enhance safety.
5. LiDAR Technology
Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) technology primarily finds use as a remote sensing solution. It leverages lasers to measure distances and create detailed 3D maps of objects and environments. The technology thus empowers the automobile industry, environmental monitoring, and surroundings mapping. Laser technology also allows LiDAR systems to operate at high speeds, making it an effective solution for applications requiring real-time data.
BestLidar advances Solid-State LiDAR Technology
US-based startup BestLidar offers solid-state LiDAR technologies and LiDAR sensors for industrial applications. It uses advanced image processing and machine learning algorithms to deliver high-accuracy point clouds for visualization. The startup offers EPIC 1, a solid-state electrically scanned LiDAR architecture with an effective range and reduced power consumption. BestLidar equips automotive, transportation, smart cities, marine, and military industries with enhanced situational awareness and long-range vision.
DeepLight builds Photonic Integrated Circuits (ICs)
DeepLight is a Swiss startup that develops photonic integrated circuits. The startup builds circuits on its proprietary integrated platform using low-loss silicon nitride photonic ICs and advanced piezoelectric actuators. This enables long-distance ranging and reduced power consumption in circuit manufacturing. DeepLight’s technology caters to LiDAR and optical metrology, spectroscopy, and environmental sensing.
6. Smart Lasers
Smart lasers are advanced laser systems that incorporate sensors, AI, machine learning, and more to create efficient and precise laser systems. They operate autonomously and increase efficiency. This helps the manufacturing, automobile, and smart city industries to integrate better connectivity and communication. Additionally, smart lasers adapt to their environment and optimize performance based on real-time data, further improving efficiency.
Guangdong Yimu Technology makes LiDAR-based Wireless Cleaners & Robots
Chinese startup Guangdong Yimu Technology manufactures wireless vacuum cleaners and sweeping robots. Its product, Lydsto, utilizes four-eye laser technology for accurate object recognition and collision avoidance. This enables improved scanning range, distance detection, and night vision for accurate operations. The technology also enables 3D structured light stereo detection and recognition for enhanced obstacle perception and fast panoramic imaging. Guangdong Yimu Technology wireless cleaning solutions and appliances find use in swimming pools, washing machine, and exhibition booths.
Garmo Instruments develops Seam-Tracking Sensors
Spanish startup Garmo Instruments provides seam-tracking sensors and welding solutions for automated and robotic welding. It offers GarLine C, a laser seam tracking sensor for cobot welding. The sensor features a robust and user-friendly design to increase portability and flexibility in workshops. It uses vision programming to avoid traditional health-related risks and offer safer working environments. Garmo Instruments caters to industrial welding applications.
7. Quantum Laser Systems
Quantum laser technology combines the principles of quantum mechanics, such as entanglement and superposition, with laser technology to create highly precise and efficient laser systems. This, in turn, enables industries to integrate secure communication channels, as well as the development of new materials and devices with unique properties. For example, quantum cascade lasers can be precisely engineered to emit specific wavelengths and exhibit stable performance over a range of temperatures. This makes them suitable for applications in laser machining, remote sensing, and long-range communications.
Quintessent makes Optical Connectivity Solutions
US-based startup Quintessent creates optical connectivity solutions for computing systems and AI. It offers a silicon photonics (SiPho) process with integrated quantum dot lasers to address optical connectivity in AI, machine learning, and disaggregated computing. The startup’s quantum dot lasers and optical amplifiers together improve power efficiency, eliminate on-chip loss, simplify packaging, and enable new product architectures and functionalities. As a result, Quintessent’s high-performance lasers find applications in commercial and defense applications.
AIO Core offers Optical Transceivers
Japanese startup AIO Core builds optical receivers to enhance optical connectivity. The startup integrates optical transmitter and receiver functions on a single chip for short-distance interconnections over multimode fiber. Its solution uses a Fabry-Ferro-type quantum dot laser as the light source to operate for longer periods over industrial temperature ranges. This way, AIO Core caters to high-performance computing, 5G+ base stations, medical equipment, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, automotive, and aerospace industries.
8. Microlasers
Microlasers are efficient and emit light with very specific wavelengths and polarizations for use in high-speed data transmission and sensing applications. It uses advanced microfabrication techniques, such as photolithography, and finds use in telecommunications and medical devices. Microlasers are highly customizable and are designed to emit light in specific patterns or directions, allowing for greater control and precision. Apart from miniaturization and fast switching, microlasers deliver high beam quality and can be made from a range of materials like organic and hybrid materials.
LASE Innovation develops Laser Particle Barcodes
US-based startup LASE Innovation provides laser particle barcodes for high-dimensional single-cell analysis. It utilizes light-emitting probes with nano-to-micron sizes and narrowband emission tuned over a wide wavelength range. The startup offers LASE Particles that provide more colors than conventional fluorescent probes. It allows researchers and companies to track individual cells and acquire and integrate data with the use of laser particle optical barcodes. By doing so, LASE Innovation simplifies sequencing, flow cytometry, microscopy, and drug screening.
Vector Photonics makes Photonic-Crystal Surface-Emitting Lasers
UK-based startup Vector Photonics builds photonic-crystal surface-emitting lasers (PCSEL) to provide advantages in data rate, wavelength, and power performance. It features a 2D grating structure that scatters light linearly and orthogonally. This enables Vector Photonics’ to deliver low-cost, high-volume, robust build, broad wavelength range, and high-power PCSELs to electronics and semiconductor industries. The lasers feature out-of-plane, orthogonal, and surface emission which makes them easy to pack and incorporate into PCBs and electronic assemblies.
9. Hybrid Lasers
Hybrid lasers combine two or more laser sources to create a single, high-powered beam. Such lasers offer a number of advantages over traditional lasers, including higher power output, greater flexibility, and improved efficiency. Hybrid lasers, such as diode-pumped lasers and fiber lasers, combine a solid-state laser with a fiber optic cable to produce a highly focused beam for precision cutting and welding. Additionally, it offers the ability to tailor the laser beam to specific applications, allowing for greater precision and control. Hybrid lasers cater to industries such as automotive, aerospace, and medical device manufacturing.
CompoundTek offers Hybrid Silicon Photonics Solutions
Singapore-based startup CompoundTek develops hybrid silicon photonics solutions. The startup’s technology enables data communications with high-density optical connectivity. The hybrid silicon wavelength-tunable lasers reduce the complexity of optical systems by replacing arrays of single-wavelength lasers. This simplifies the system architecture and lowers inventory costs. CompoundTek allows biomedical sensing, LiDAR, aerospace, and aeronautic industries to fabricate their silicon photonic integrated circuit (PICs) using highly advanced solutions.
STR designs High-Power Fiber Laser Technologies
Chinese startup STR provides high-power fiber laser technologies for special laser hybrid welding and precision cutting applications. The startup leverages a plasma arc with a laser beam to work co-axially and increase the welding speed and penetration. This enables higher welding efficiencies and small thermal deformations of the welded parts. Laser-plasma hybrid welding technology applies to wider industrial applications in welding particular metals, laser cutting, and surface treatment. This way, STR caters to additive manufacturing, automotive, and precision processing equipment industries.
10. Laser-Guided Machining
Laser-guided machining is the combination of lasers and machining to create accurate and efficient manufacturing processes. This technology uses lasers to guide the machining tool, allowing for greater control and accuracy in production. Laser-guided machining has a wide range of applications, from aerospace to medical devices, and the manufacturing industries. The technology provides an advantage over traditional machining by providing higher accuracy and reliability in production.
Matrix Laser Technology empowers Laser Edge Banding Machines
Chinese startup Matrix Laser Technology manufactures laser edge banding machines to ensure heat-resistant production performance. It applies the solution to furniture manufacturing processes to achieve quality edge finishes. The laser melts and bonds a thin edge tape to the furniture panel surface, providing a durable, aesthetically pleasing, and functional edge finish. Matrix Laser Technology caters to the furniture industry, including residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors, by providing laser output on the band with wood bonding.
Midel Photonics manufactures Laser Beam Shapers & Splitters
German startup Midel Photonics offers laser beam shapers and splitters for laser-based manufacturing. The beam shapers and splitters increase precision, reduce defects and speed up manufacturing processes using diffractive optics. It uses high-power laser mirrors with shorter wavelengths and tailor-made beam shapes to efficiently redistribute laser lights into desired shapes. This way, Midel Photonics creates structured surfaces on mirror blank with highly reflective coatings for industrial applications.
Discover all Laser Industry Trends, Technologies & Startups
The latest innovations and trends in laser technologies are revolutionizing various industries, from healthcare to manufacturing and beyond. High-powered lasers and advances in laser processing, like hybrid and smart lasers, make manufacturing more precise and fast. Further advances in terahertz lasers, attosecond lasers, and mid-infrared lasers enable precise wireless communications and quantum information processing. The laser technology trends and startups outlined in this report only scratch the surface of trends that we identified during our data-driven innovation & startup scouting process. Identifying new opportunities & emerging technologies to implement into your business goes a long way in gaining a competitive advantage.
