Optoelectronics is at the crossroads of electronics and optics. Using optical and electronic means, it generates, manipulates and converts light. Photonic devices process, store, transmit and display information for applications such as communications, displays, imaging, memory, biophotonics, energy generation and lighting. Photonics is an essential part of a country’s information infrastructure, which, in turn, plays a key role in its domestic economy and national defense.

The purpose of this article is to explore applications of optoelectronics, with an emphasis on their commercial significance. This is not a technology review, but rather a look at the commercial impact of mature and emerging optoelectronics technologies...