Product launch in the second half of next year
Internalization of core sensor and module technologies
Expanding application to home appliances, automobiles, drones, etc.
LG Innotek is launching a full-scale thermal imaging infrared (IR) camera module business. The company plans to quickly establish a business foundation by leveraging its technological prowess and successful expertise from its smartphone camera module business and through collaborative partnerships with venture companies.

Thermal imaging cameras detect and visualize far-infrared heat energy with a wavelength of 8 to 14 micrometers (㎛) emitted by objects. They are useful for identifying the shape and location of objects regardless of lighting or weather, but their high cost makes them primarily used in specialized fields such as military and industrial safety.

LG Innotek plans to target the market with a thermal imaging camera module that offers enhanced thermal detection and image processing performance and competitive pricing. It plans to unveil its first differentiated product in the second half of next year.

LG Innotek is confident in the design and production of thermal imaging camera modules. This is because the module's structure and production process are similar to those of smartphone camera modules. LG Innotek has been the global leader in the smartphone camera module market for seven consecutive years.

LG Innotek aims to grow the market for thermal imaging camera modules. By improving performance and lowering prices to meet their potential, the range of applications is expected to rapidly expand. The primary goal is to expand from special markets such as the military to civilian markets such as home appliances, automobiles, and drones.

Incorporating thermal imaging camera modules into home appliances allows for customized features that take into account user location, body temperature, and other factors. Air conditioners can adjust cooling intensity based on a person's body temperature to deliver optimal cooling. They can also automatically control the focus of cooling based on the location of people or pets.

Thermal imaging camera modules can also be applied to ADAS and autonomous driving systems in automobiles to enhance driving safety. Thermal imaging camera modules can quickly and accurately detect animals, people, and other objects even at night. When used in drones, they can aid in nighttime rescue operations.

According to market research firm Yole Development, the global thermal imaging camera market is expected to grow from $3.325 billion in 2018 to $4.385 billion in 2022.