For a quarter-century, TIME’s editorial staff has consistently recognized the most influential new products and concepts in its annual issue. The inaugural edition, released in December 2000 with a cover highlighting the prolonged Bush v. Gore presidential vote count, showcased approximately 35 inventions. Some of these now seem quite dated, such as the (a digital camera capable of uploading photos to the internet), the pioneering 3D ultrasound imaging for expectant parents, and a that allowed adventurous cyclists to ride on a lake.
Conversely, some innovations from that era could easily still feature on the 2025 compilation. Medtronic’s Activa Tremor Control Therapy, for instance, appeared in the 2000 issue as a groundbreaking advancement in using deep brain stimulation to treat Parkinson’s disease. This year’s publication features the same company’s recently FDA-approved enhancement of this very technology, , which dynamically adapts to individuals’ unique tremor patterns.
Over the past 25 years, the speed of innovation has only intensified. To reflect this acceleration, this year’s list comprises 300 inventions—the largest selection we have ever presented. To assemble this extensive list, we gathered nominations from TIME’s editors and correspondents globally, alongside submissions through an online application portal, with a particular focus on rapidly developing sectors like health care and artificial intelligence. Each potential entry was then evaluated based on crucial criteria including its originality, effectiveness, ambition, and overall impact.
The outcome is (and )—a collection that includes an for educators, a for combating wildfires, the world’s largest , and a that automates dishwasher loading—all poised to transform how we live, work, recreate, and perceive what is achievable.
