Handheld Smart Camera Market Surges: Growth Driven by Short-Form Video and New Technologies
Global shipments of handheld smart cameras experienced a significant surge in 2025, rising 83% to reach 16.65 million units and generating over RMB 46.1 billion in revenue, according to the latest report from International Data Corporation (IDC).1, 2 This growth is fueled by the increasing demand for short-form video content, vlogging, and social media creation, expanding the appeal of these devices beyond traditional photography enthusiasts.1
Defining the Handheld Smart Camera Category
IDC defines handheld smart cameras as portable, handheld devices equipped with onboard computing, stabilization technology, and at least 2K resolution.1 This category encompasses action cameras, panoramic cameras, and gimbal cameras, with action cameras further divided into detachable and non-detachable models.
Market Growth and Future Projections
The market is projected to continue its upward trajectory, with shipments potentially exceeding 40 million units by 2030, representing a compound annual growth rate of nearly 20% over the next five years.1
Shifting Consumer Landscape
This growth in handheld smart cameras comes as the market for conventional digital cameras, DSLRs, and mirrorless cameras faces challenges. While traditional cameras cater to a mature user base focused on image quality and complex post-production, handheld smart cameras appeal to a younger demographic, students, women, and sports enthusiasts who prioritize portability, durability, and ease of sharing.1
Key Players and Market Share
DJI led the global market in 2025, capturing 62% of shipment share.1 This success is attributed to strong sales of panoramic cameras and detachable action cameras, alongside strategic international expansion. DJI surpassed 10 million units shipped for the first time, with its Pocket 3 leading the gimbal camera segment. Action camera shipments increased by over 150%, accounting for nearly half of its overall mix.1 The Osmo Nano sold over 600,000 units in just four months, and the Osmo 360 captured over 35% of the market share in the fourth quarter.1
Insta360 remained a significant competitor, maintaining its leadership in panoramic cameras and detachable action cameras.3, 4 The company shipped over 3.4 million units globally in 2025.1 Its panoramic camera share exceeded 65%, supported by the X5 and X4 ranges, while the Air line targeted more affordable price points. Ace series shipments grew by more than 200%, and detachable camera share rose above 50%.3, 4
GoPro experienced a decline in shipments in both the action and panoramic segments, facing increased pressure from Chinese competitors.1 Weaker sales in China and a focus on Europe and the United States contributed to this downturn. New products, including the Max2 and Lite Hero, received a limited response. IDC noted that GoPro is facing challenges across hardware, channels, ecosystem, and regional performance.1
Segment Performance
The action camera segment shipped over 8 million units in 2025, a 61% increase year-over-year.1 Both DJI and Insta360 gained market share through new product launches, with detachable action camera shipments exceeding 1.3 million units.1 While Insta360 initially led in detachable action cameras, DJI quickly gained ground with the Osmo Nano.1
Gimbal cameras saw even faster growth, with global shipments rising by over 100% in 2025.1 DJI held a clear lead in this segment, with the Pocket series setting the benchmark for short-video and vlog recording.1
Panoramic camera shipments also expanded strongly, topping 2.5 million units, a more than 50% increase.1 Insta360 retained its leadership, while DJI gained significant share after launching the Osmo 360 in the second half of the year.1
Industry Challenges and Future Trends
Despite the strong growth, the market still has room for expansion, as penetration rates remain low compared to smartphones and PCs.1 Improving user experience and lowering prices are expected to drive wider adoption.1
Although, vendors face challenges from rising memory prices, which could squeeze margins due to the lower average selling prices of handheld smart cameras.1 Software is also becoming increasingly significant, with image stabilization, HDR, and noise reduction relying heavily on algorithms and data analysis.1 Manufacturers are investing in custom CMOS sensors, system-on-chip designs, and even dedicated AI chips to enhance performance.1
Key Takeaways
- The handheld smart camera market experienced 83% growth in 2025, driven by demand for short-form video.
- DJI leads the market with a 62% shipment share, followed by Insta360.
- GoPro is facing challenges due to increased competition.
- The gimbal and panoramic camera segments are experiencing particularly strong growth.
- Rising memory prices and the importance of software are key industry challenges.
1 Global shipments of handheld smart cameras will surge by 83% in 2025
2 IDC report: Global shipments of handheld smart cameras to surge 83% by 2025
3 Report: Insta360 Leads Global Market Share for Panoramic and Thumb …
4 Insta360 Leads 2025 Panoramic Camera Market Growth