Headphones demand to be driven by developing markets

According to a new report from Grand View Research, the market for earphones and headphones is expected to grow significantly over the next few years. While the North American market is seen to remain the largest over the forecast period with Europe not far behind, growth is seen to be especially strong in emerging markets. Additionally, the increasing consumer demand for premium over-ear headphones are expected to drive the market.

The report noted that while all kinds of headphones and earphones are expected to see robust growth, in-ear headphones in particular are estimated to be in demand, at least in the US. Revenue from over-ear headphones in the US is seen to grow by about 50 percent between 2014 and 2019, while in-ear headphones are expected to grow by about 58 percent. The report notes, however, that over-ear headphones are predicted to outpace in-ear headphone growth through 2022.

Notably, revenue growth is estimated to be driven by products that have integrated wireless capabilities such as Bluetooth, SKAA, and/or Wi-Fi. Bluetooth especially has been pegged as a market winner as the protocol is compatible with virtually every smartphone and tablet as well as most home audio appliances being sold today.

According to the report, Beats Electronics has impacted trends in headphones. High-performance headphones with exaggerated bass, acoustic fidelity and a highly visible and distinctive brand on every set have increased the number of companies wanting to compete in the field.

See a comparison table of selected Bluetooth headphone suppliers on GlobalSources.com