New studies analyze growing use of sapphire glass in smartphones

Some new studies by RnR Market Research take a look at the global market for sapphire glass and how manufacturers are responding for demands for supply from smartphone manufacturers. According to one analyst, manufacturers are considering the use of sapphire glass for use in high-end smartphone displays and even Corning is considering adding sapphire glass properties to their Gorilla Glass line of screens.

The research indicates production capacities for sapphire glass are growing around the globe with China and the U.S. leading the way. Interestingly, it appears smaller organizations are finding the most success thus far in spinning up new production capabilities, although bigger manufacturers are coming on as well.

One dynamic identified by the researchers is the impact of the high cost of production of sapphire glass, partly due to limited supplies. This results in the glass really only being appropriate for use in high-end devices. The problem that is looming is the downward price pressure in the high-end smartphone market which works against inclusion of higher-end components like sapphire glass.

On a related issue, RnR Market Research also studied the market for non-glass capacitive sensors. This market is projected to grow by 14.3% from 2014 to 2020. The study notes costs for these non-glass touch screens tend to be five to seven times higher than glass. Despite those high costs, these materials will be incorporated into more devices and applications in the coming years as device manufacturers move into new form factors and add capabilities to traditional smartphones and tablets.

source: RnR Market Research (PR)

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