Introduction: Navigating the Competitive Landscape of Air Quality Sensors
The air-quality-sensing market is undergoing a tremendous upsurge of competition, due to the rapid spread of technology, the stricter regulatory regimes, and the growing demand for transparency and accountability. In this burgeoning field, the leading players—including system-integrators, equipment suppliers, and some of the most ambitious AI start-ups—are deploying advanced capabilities such as AI-based data analysis, IoT integration, and automation. The manufacturers are focusing on improving the accuracy and reliability of sensors, while the IT specialists are concentrating on integrating data and offering real-time monitoring solutions. Biometrics and green technology are the most promising newcomers, aiming to distinguish themselves from the established players and to attract the attention of both consumers and businesses. The next strategic deployment trends for 2024–25 will be characterized by a growing emphasis on scalable solutions that can be tailored to evolving regulatory frameworks and societal goals, enabling agile companies to capture a significant share of the market.
Competitive Positioning
Full-Suite Integrators
These vendors offer comprehensive solutions integrating hardware, software, and analytics for air quality monitoring.
Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
Siemens |
Strong industrial automation expertise |
Integrated air quality management systems |
Global |
Honeywell |
Diverse product portfolio and innovation |
Smart building and environmental solutions |
Global |
3M |
Established brand with extensive R&D |
Air quality monitoring technologies |
Global |
Specialized Technology Vendors
These companies focus on niche technologies and innovative solutions for air quality sensing.
Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
Sensirion |
Leading sensor technology and miniaturization |
High-precision air quality sensors |
Global |
Agilent Technologies |
Advanced analytical instrumentation |
Laboratory and field air quality analysis |
Global |
Aeroqual |
Real-time air quality monitoring solutions |
Portable and fixed air quality sensors |
Global |
Breezometer |
High-resolution air quality data analytics |
Air quality data visualization and APIs |
Global |
Infrastructure & Equipment Providers
These vendors supply the necessary equipment and infrastructure for air quality monitoring.
Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
Nederman |
Expertise in industrial air filtration |
Air quality control systems |
Global |
Teledyne Technologies |
Robust environmental monitoring solutions |
Air quality and emissions monitoring |
Global |
Cairpol |
Specialized in industrial air quality solutions |
Air quality measurement and control |
Global |
Landau Industries |
Custom solutions for air quality needs |
Air quality monitoring equipment |
North America |
Envirosuite |
Comprehensive environmental management platform |
Air quality and environmental monitoring |
Global |
TruTag Technologies |
Innovative sensor technology for tracking |
Air quality and safety monitoring |
Global |
AirVisual |
User-friendly consumer air quality products |
Personal and community air quality monitoring |
Global |
Aerodyne Research |
Expertise in atmospheric research and monitoring |
Advanced air quality measurement solutions |
Global |
Emerging Players & Regional Champions
- Aeroqual (New Zealand) - specializes in air quality measurement with a focus on ozone and particulate matter sensors. Recently he has been collaborating with local governments in New Zealand on urban air projects. Aeroqual challenges the established players with its more affordable and flexible solutions.
- Clarity Movement Co., Inc. (U.S.A.): Provides low-cost air quality sensors and a cloud-based data platform, recently securing a contract with several U.S. cities for real-time air quality monitoring, complementing established vendors by making the data accessible for public engagement.
- IQAir (Switzerland): Known for high-precision air quality sensors and air purification systems, recently expanded its product line to include portable sensors, challenging established vendors by focusing on consumer health and wellness.
- Scentroid (Canada): Provides advanced air quality monitoring solutions, with a focus on odor detection. The company has recently installed systems in various industrial applications, complementing the offerings of established suppliers by addressing niche markets that require specialized monitoring.
- Airly (Poland) - Offers a network of inexpensive air quality sensors and a platform for real-time monitoring, has recently expanded its activities in Eastern Europe, competing with the established vendors by offering solutions tailored to the needs of the local market.
Regional Trends: In 2023, there is a marked increase in the use of air quality sensors in urban areas, as a result of growing awareness of the dangers of air pollution and the health effects. North America and Europe see a significant increase in government initiatives and budgets for air quality monitoring, while Asia-Pacific is embracing low-cost solutions to air quality challenges. In terms of technology, the main focus is on IoT-enabled sensors and data analytics platforms that enable real-time monitoring and community engagement.
Collaborations & M&A Movements
- Aeroqual and AeroVironment entered into a partnership to integrate advanced air quality sensors into drone technology for enhanced environmental monitoring, aiming to capture a larger share of the growing environmental compliance market.
- In the field of IoT, Honeywell has bought Senseware, a start-up that monitors air quality, to strengthen its IoT skills and its portfolio of smart buildings. This gives it a stronger position against competitors such as Siemens and Johnson Controls.
- IQAir and the World Health Organization (WHO) collaborated to develop a global air quality data platform, enhancing public access to real-time air quality information and positioning both organizations as leaders in public health advocacy.
Competitive Summary Table
Capability | Leading Players | Remarks |
Real-Time Monitoring |
Aeroqual, IQAir |
Aeroqual has developed a real-time monitoring solution, using a range of sensors that are widely used in urban areas. The IQAir technology is renowned for its accuracy and has been adopted by schools and hospitals to improve air quality management. |
Data Analytics and Reporting |
PurpleAir, Clarity Movement |
PurpleAir provides a data analysis platform that is easy to use and makes it easy for the users to visualize the air quality data. The sensors that Clarity Movement has, when combined with the data analysis platform, enable cities to take data-driven decisions for improving the air quality. |
Integration with IoT |
Bosch, Honeywell |
The Bosch sensors are perfectly suited to IoT systems and enable a smooth transition to smart city applications. Honeywell's solutions are known for their compatibility with existing building automation systems, which makes them easy to use in commercial buildings. |
Mobile Applications |
AirVisual, Breezometer |
AirVisual provides a comprehensive mobile application that delivers real-time air quality information and health recommendations to drive user engagement. Its app has been lauded for its easy-to-use interface and detailed air quality insights, which have made it popular among consumers. |
Sustainability Features |
Temtop, Atmotube |
Temtop focuses on eco-friendly materials in their sensor designs, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. Atmotube emphasizes portable air quality monitoring, promoting sustainability through personal awareness and action. |
Conclusion: Navigating the Air Quality Sensor Landscape
Despite the presence of a few major players, the market for air quality sensors in 2023 will be highly competitive and fragmented. Both established and new entrants will compete for market share. The regional trends will focus on compliance with regulations and on sustainability. These trends will lead to the development of new products and services. The established companies will rely on their reputation for quality and their wide distribution network, while the newcomers will focus on their advanced capabilities, such as artificial intelligence, automation and flexibility. In this rapidly evolving market, the ability to integrate these new capabilities will be crucial for market leaders. The integration of these new capabilities will enable companies to provide more accurate and timely data, and improve the customer experience. In this rapidly changing market, the development of new capabilities and the establishment of new alliances will be key to ensuring a strong competitive position.