TrendForce’s latest report, “2027 Infrared Sensing and Optical Communication Market Trend”, shows that rapidly growing demand for data transmission in expanding data center networks is increasing interest in VCSEL-based near-packaged optics (NPO). This technology is favored for its low power usage, easier maintenance, and a mature supply chain. Major companies like Lumentum, Furukawa Electric, Coherent, Broadcom, ams OSRAM, and HiSilicon are investing heavily in R&D.
TrendForce’s latest research into the Micro LED industry highlights how generative AI is driving rapid growth in demand for high-speed optical communications. Micro LED technology offers power consumption as low as 1–2 pJ/bit and ultra-low bit error rates (BER) of ≤10⁻¹⁰. It’s also emerging as one of the three major short-distance, high-speed intra-rack transmission solutions for scale-up data center networks, alongside active electrical cables (AEC) and VCSEL-based near-packaged optics (VCSEL NPO). As a result, TrendForce projects that the Micro LED CPO optical transceiver market will reach US$848 million by 2030.
The rapid rise of generative AI is driving continuous growth in demand for high-speed data transmission in data centers. Copper cable solutions, traditionally used for short-distance intra-rack interconnects, are increasingly facing challenges in both transmission density and energy efficiency.
TrendForce’s latest analysis of the UV LED market reveals that increasing precious metal prices, rising raw material costs, and growing labor expenses are providing price support for UV LEDs in the first quarter of 2026. In particular, customized products are expected to see quarter-on-quarter price gains of up to 5%.
TrendForce’s recent research on the near-eye display industry indicates that the growing convergence of AI and wearable devices has resulted in stronger-than-anticipated market response for Meta Ray-Ban Display Glasses. In the last six months, Meta has significantly increased orders for several key components. Driven by this strong backing from leading brands, TrendForce forecasts global AR glasses shipments will reach 950,000 units by 2026, a 53% YoY increase.
