Shape memory polymers (SMPs) have garnered widespread attention as tailorable, made-for-purpose smart reactive materials with the capability to maintain a temporary shape, and ability to return to their original shape when subjected to external stimuli. This article presents an overview on the landscape of SMPs based on the analysis on market survey, benchmarking activity, and records of intellectual property (IP). Market analysis for global SMPs was conducted by Mordor Intelligence for conjecture time frame of 2022�2030. The records on IP for SMPs were obtained from Derwent Innovation, while the data for commercially available SMP products were obtained based on published information. Market analysis revealed that SMP has about USD 1.6 billion market size in 2030 at compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.4, with healthcare dominates the SMP-based market at 40�50 market share, followed by electronics and aerospace at 17, and textile at 6. This finding is coherent to the outcomes of IP analysis where medical/healthcare-related segment has the highest IP records (52 of total IPs). A selected overview on SMP properties such as mechanical performance, shape fixity, and recovery when subjected to thermal stimuli is also presented in this paper. Challenges and prospects for SMPs are also outlined. This review could provide insights on designing and fabrication of SMP products such that they are in line with market trend, demands, and requirements. © Institute of Technology PETRONAS Sdn Bhd (Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS) 2024.