High Precision GNSS Market Set to Increase Almost 100% by 2016

Following a difficult 2009, the precision GNSS market is moving into a new period of sustained growth, resulting in a near doubling of shipments and revenues by 2016. Precision GNSS manufacturers have traditionally built their reputation in surveying. However, markets such as agriculture, construction, aviation, GIS mapping and military are all forecast to grow strongly. The market is also expanding rapidly into new regions. China was regarded as the second largest market for GNSS receivers in 2010, a market that essentially didn’t exist 10 years ago. 

Senior analyst, telematics and navigation, Patrick Connolly says, “A combination of small, low cost receivers are enabling new devices, services and markets to open up, such as laptops, handhelds, communications devices, etc. Flexible receiver design is also vital, as new GNSS constellations and increasing availability of augmentation technologies proliferate, e.g. RTK, CORS, GLONASS, Compass, Galileo, LocataTech, etc. GNSS receiver manufacturers are increasingly moving to firmware upgrades to support these technologies in a cost effective way for users.”

With the cost of hardware OEM equipment set to fall sharply, companies are looking to generate increasing revenues from software, firmware upgrades, applications, connectivity, distributor support, etc.  Connectivity and real-time data enable the industry to monitor and analyze information, streamlining processes and bring new levels of performance. Trimble’s 2010 financial results clearly illustrate how this shift is already underway.

Dominique Bonte, group director, telematics and navigation, adds a word of caution, “This new growth will also bring a threat from new entrants from emerging regions such as CHC in China, as well consumer GNSS IC companies supporting open L2C and L5 signals.”

ABI Research’s report “High Precision GNSS Markets and Systems,” looks at where, when, and how the high precision GNSS market will change over the next five years and how receiver design will transform to keep up with these changes. 

It is part of the Location Platforms and Enablers research service.

ABI Research provides in-depth analysis and quantitative forecasting of trends in global connectivity and other emerging technologies. From offices in North America, Europe and Asia, ABI Research’s worldwide team of experts advises thousands of decision makers through 40+ research and advisory services. Est. 1990. For more information visit www.abiresearch.com, or call +1.516.624.2500.