This article is a highly personal assessment of the development, special features and current significance of NIR spectroscopy for quality and process control in the material and life sciences. The stunning evolution over the last five decades from hang-on to UV/VIS or MIR spectrometers via stand-alone laboratory instruments to their current use as light-fiber coupled process control tools, imaging spectrometers and miniaturized sensors in pocket-size finds few analogues in instrumental analytical chemistry. The initial organizational difficulties in implementing the NIR technique in industrial analytical laboratories are addressed as well as the gradual optimization of chemometric evaluation procedures and technical advancements that have contributed to its current importance as an analytical technique. From the perspective of a conservative spectroscopist, specific beneficial features of the NIR technique are highlighted and some myths that have unnecessarily delayed the rapid spread of the NIR technique are dispelled. The current potential of the technique for in-the-field and on-site measurements is emphasized in light of advances in miniaturization and special attention will be paid to possible applications that will allow a clientele that is not necessarily scientifically trained to solve quality control and authentication problems with this technology in everyday life. Finally, the danger is addressed not to fall into the exaggerated narrative of some direct-to-consumer companies, which has raised expectations with full-bodied promises, but has harmed the very valuable technology of NIR spectroscopy, rather than promoting its further development.