Acer Invests in Japanese AIDC Firm Opticon
- Strategic Investment in Edge Computing
Acer Inc. and Esquarre Vision Limited have announced plans to acquire significant stakes in OPTOELECTRONICS CO., LTD., better known as Opticon. Acer will invest around 38% while Esquarre will take 20%, with the combined value exceeding JPY 2.4 billion. The deal is expected to close in early 2026, supporting Opticon’s expansion into global markets. Opticon, a Japanese provider of Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) solutions, has been a recognized name in barcode scanning technology since 1976.
Synergy with Acer Subsidiaries
The investment strengthens Acer’s AIoT Edge Computing portfolio by adding identification and machine vision capabilities. These technologies are expected to complement Acer’s subsidiaries AOPEN and Posiflex, which focus on industrial computing and commercial AIoT platforms. AOPEN specializes in display engines and edge computing solutions, while Posiflex delivers integrated online-to-offline systems worldwide. Together, the companies aim to create a broader ecosystem of embedded edge computing applications.
Acer’s Chairman and CEO Jason Chen highlighted Opticon’s addition as the sixteenth publicly listed subsidiary of the Acer Group. Esquarre CEO Jay Cheng emphasized that Opticon will evolve from a device manufacturer into a solution provider for AIoT applications. Current management will remain in place but will be supported by global leadership from Acer and Esquarre. Opticon’s founder Masami Tawara expressed confidence that the partnership will accelerate the company’s next phase of growth.
Opticon’s Role in AIDC Industry
Opticon manufactures a range of AIDC products including barcode scanners, handheld computers, electronic shelf labels, and imaging modules. Its portfolio covers both 2D CMOS imager-based and 1D laser/CCD-based technologies. The company has long been recognized as one of the pioneers in barcode scanner manufacturing. With Acer’s global reach and Esquarre’s embedded market expertise, Opticon is positioned to expand its solutions beyond Japan.
Opticon’s history is notable in the evolution of retail and logistics technology. It was among the first companies worldwide to specialize in barcode scanners, a technology that transformed supply chain management and point-of-sale systems. Today, AIDC solutions are increasingly integrated with AIoT platforms, enabling smarter retail environments and industrial automation. Acer’s investment reflects a broader trend of traditional PC makers diversifying into edge computing and connected device ecosystems.
