Report Highlights
The global market for smart machines was valued at $5.3 billion in 2013. This market is expected to increase to over $6.2 billion in 2014 and nearly $15.3 billion in 2019, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.7% for the five-year period 2014 to 2019.
Report Includes
- An overview of the global market for smart machines.
- The details which define these machines including the ability to adapt to and learn from changing conditions in real time, the capacity to operate autonomously (without direct human supervision), and having the capability to communicate with other machines.
- Analyses of global market trends, with data from 2013, estimates for 2014 and 2019, and projections of CAGRs through 2024.
- Potential markets for various types of smart machines such as virtual reality assistants, intelligent agents, expert systems, embedded software, autonomous robots, and purpose-built smart machines.
- Key enabling technologies for the next generation of smart machines, including voice recognition technology, micro- and nanosensors, radio frequency technologies, and neurocomputing.
Report Scope
This report identifies and quantifies the potential market for various types of smart machines, including:
- Virtual reality assistants (e.g., Siri).
- Intelligent agents (e.g., automated online assistants).
- Expert systems (e.g., medical decision support systems, smart grid).
- Embedded software (machine monitoring and control systems).
- Autonomous robots (including self-driving vehicles).
- Purpose-built smart machines (such as neural computers).
These technologies are generally at an early stage of development, so it will be necessary to consider the market at least as far out as 2024 to obtain meaningful results. A separate section of the report discusses the development and future sales of key enabling technologies for the next generation of smart machines, such as:
- Voice recognition technology.
- Micro- and nanosensors.
- Radio frequency technologies.
- Neurocomputing.
The study format includes the following major elements:
- Executive summary.
- Definitions.
- Historical milestones.
- Technologies and applications that have the greatest commercial potential through 2024.
- Detailed market estimates and projections for each technology and application during the period 2013 to 2019.
- General assessment of expected market trends in the longer term (2019 to 2024).
- Companies, academic and government laboratories that are developing smart machines.
- Patent analysis.
Analyst Credentials
Andrew McWilliams spent more than 25 years as a consultant with Ernst & Young, McKinsey & Company and A.T. Kearny focused on manufacturing before segueing into research analysis. He has been covering myriad technology categories for BCC Research for more than 15 years. McWilliams has a BA from Princeton University and an MA from Harvard University. He has worked in more than 40 countries and he resides in the greater Boston area.
Related Reports
Global Markets for Machine Vision Technologies
The global market for machine vision (MV) system components was nearly $13.5 billion in 2012. This is expected to grow to $15.2 billion in 2014 and further increase to nearly $23.5 billion in 2019. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the five-year period from 2014 to 2019 is expected to be 9%.
Active, Controlled, and Intelligent Packaging for Foods and Beverages
The global market for advanced packaging solutions was at $31.4 billion in 2011 and $33.3 billion in 2012. The market growth looks promising and the overall market value for 2017 is projected to be nearly $44.3 billion, after increasing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8%.
Robotics: Technologies and Global Markets
The market for whole robots, robot parts, robot software, and related safety materials now approaches $22 billion. BCC Research forecasts it will rise at a five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.9% between 2013 and 2018, when it’s expected to surpass $29 billion.
Global Markets and Technologies for Voice Recognition
The global voice recognition market was valued at nearly $47 billion in 2011 and should reach $53 billion in 2012. Total market value should total $113 billion in 2017 after increasing at a five-year compound annual growth rate of 16.2%.
Track the Latest Global Tariff Developments
In today's fast-paced global economy, tariffs are no longer static—they are dynamic levers shaped by geopolitical realignments, supply chain vulnerabilities, inflationary pressures, and sustainability-driven trade reforms. As governments worldwide recalibrate their trade strategies, businesses are left to navigate a maze of shifting rules, rising costs, and regulatory uncertainty.
Our analysis empowers you with real-time updates and in-depth expert analysis on all facets of global tariff activity. From new trade agreements and sanctions to abrupt tariff hikes and retaliatory duties, we monitor developments across borders, sectors, and industries—so you don't have to.
Whether it's the ongoing U.S.–China trade dynamics, the evolving EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), or the emerging policies in India, ASEAN, and Latin America, we provide full-spectrum coverage. We also track multilateral trade negotiations, World Trade Organization (WTO) rulings, and sector-specific duty structures—ensuring you are always ahead of global trade shifts.
With our analysis, you can stay informed, identify risks, and confidently respond to tariff changes—no matter where you operate.
Ready to see what tariff means for your business?
Consult with our experts or request your custom Tariff Impact Brife today
Stay Informed, Stay Competitive
In today's interconnected and unpredictable global economy, staying ahead of tariff shifts is not just important—it's essential. BCC Research provides decision-makers with trusted, research-driven insights that turn uncertainty into opportunity.
Our in-depth market analysis and trade intelligence help you decode how tariff changes impact your specific sector—manufacturing, healthcare, technology, agriculture, or energy. We break down complex data into actionable knowledge through comprehensive reports, expert commentaries, and sector-focused forecasts.
Our analysis includes:
- Thorough breakdowns of current and proposed tariff policies and how they affect regional and global trade flows.
- Sector-specific implications, helping you understand the strategic impact on sourcing, pricing, and competitiveness.
- Forward-looking insights to support risk management, planning, and response strategies for evolving trade conditions.
With BCC Research, you gain more than just information—you gain clarity and confidence to make well-informed decisions in a volatile trade environment.
Don't let tariffs catch you off guard—let our insights guide your strategy.
Recent Reports
Automotive Battery Management System: Global Markets
The global market for automotive battery management system (BMS) is projected to grow from $6.4 billion in 2025 to reach $13.9 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.8% from 2025 to 2030.
Sensors: Technologies and Global Markets
The global market for sensors was valued at $195.1 billion in 2024 and is estimated to increase from $212.5 billion in 2025 to reach $323.3 billion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.7% from 2025 through 2030.
Autonomous Underwater Vehicles: Global Markets to 2030
The global market for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) was valued at $2.4 billion in 2024 and is estimated to increase from $2.7 billion in 2025 to reach $5.9 billion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.7% from 2025 through 2030.
2024 Robotics Technology Research Review
This 2024 Research Review of Robotics Technology Market provides a sampling of the type of quantitative market information, analysis, and guidance that BCC Research has been developing since its inception in 1971 to help its customers make informed business decisions.
2024 Instrumentation & Sensors Research Review
This 2024 Instrumentation and Sensors Research Review provides a sampling of the type of quantitative market information, analysis, and guidance that BCC Research has been developing since its inception in 1971 to help its customers make informed business decisions.
Become A Member
BCC Research offers a comprehensive library of reports, granting members unlimited access to data, insights, and market intelligence for informed business decisions, while actively supporting members in their evolving journeys and prioritizing high-quality, relevant topics based on continuous engagement with the research community.
Find Out MoreCustom Consulting
BCC Research emphasizes the importance of organizations leveraging highly customized market insights aligned with specific strategic business objectives through direct engagement with primary sources and proprietary forecasting models for profitable decision-making in maximizing growth opportunities and minimizing risks.
Customize NowScorecard
The Venture Scorecard provides commercialization offices and decision makers with expert analysis, offering strategic insights crucial for aligning objectives with market realities at various stages of commercializing new products or evaluating investment opportunities, from opportunity assessment to growth planning.
Find Out MoreInnovation Spotlight
Our industry experts offer strategic guidance to maximize the market potential of commercialized products, patents, and IP by providing insights into market trends, competitive dynamics, and effective positioning, using the Innovation Spotlight service for enhanced exposure to thought leaders and the wider community.
Find Out More