2026 Applications Are Opening Soon. Stay In The Loop
TIME Best Inventions
300 innovations changing how we live

Genius ideas, recognized.

For over two decades, TIME Best Inventions has recognized the products, software, and services shaping our world—from breakthroughs in science and technology to innovations that make daily life smarter, easier, and more sustainable. Each year, TIME editors assemble a collection of the world’s most groundbreaking inventions, and yours could be among them.

2026 APPLICATIONS ARE OPENING SOON

Previous TIME Magazine cover being used as a decorative element
Previous TIME Magazine cover being used as a decorative element
Previous TIME Magazine cover being used as a decorative element
Previous TIME Magazine cover being used as a decorative element
Previous TIME Magazine cover being used as a decorative element
Previous TIME Magazine cover being used as a decorative element
Previous TIME Magazine cover being used as a decorative element
Previous TIME Magazine cover being used as a decorative element
Previous TIME Magazine cover being used as a decorative element
Previous TIME Magazine cover being used as a decorative element

THE BENEFITS OF ENTERING

Get guaranteed consideration

Every entry is carefully evaluated by TIME’s editorial team, ensuring your invention is seen by experts in your field.

Gain global recognition

The Best Inventions list is published and promoted across TIME’s print magazine, website, and social media platforms, reaching a global audience of 120 million.

Generate sales opportunities

Being named a TIME Best Invention boosts your visibility and credibility, driving new interest from customers and investors, and helping propel your business to the next level.

Grow your network

Winners become part of an exclusive group of industry leaders that TIME editors return to throughout the year for coverage, expertise, and events.

The Categories

TIME Best Inventions are evaluated across a wide range of sectors and features – from accessibility to sustainability, healthcare to fashion – and thoughtfully assessed on their impact, innovation, and success.

Aerospace & Aviation – Other

Aviation Infrastructure

Airport technology, air traffic control, ground support equipment, aviation safety systems

Commercial Aviation

Supersonic flight, advanced aircraft technology, aircraft efficiency innovations

Drones & Unmanned Aerial Systems

Delivery drones, commercial UAVs, surveying drones, autonomous aerial vehicles

Satellites

Satellite networks, communications satellites, Earth observation, satellite infrastructure

Space & Scientific Exploration

Spacecraft, lunar landers, launch vehicles space telescopes, space equipment

Agriculture – Other

Crop Protection & Pest Management

Pest control systems, disease detection, crop protection technology, integrated pest management

Farming Equipment

Tractors, weeders, harvesting equipment, farming machinery, agricultural drones

Growing Systems & Infrastructure

Vertical farms, indoor farms, greenhouse technology, hydroponic systems, aquaponics, growing infrastructure

Livestock Management

Animal health tracking, collars, feeding systems, livestock analytics

Precision Agriculture & Crop Monitoring

Soil sensors, crop health monitoring, yield prediction, GPS-guided farming, irrigation management

Seeds, Genetics & Crop Science

Crop breeding, biotech seeds, plant genetics, seed technology, agricultural biotechnology

Architecture & Built Environment – Other

Architecture & Design

Building design projects, smart building technology, prefabrication approaches, structural systems

Construction & Engineering

Advanced construction techniques, structural engineering breakthroughs, innovative materials for construction

Real Estate & Development

Residential and commercial development projects, innovative housing solutions, adaptive reuse projects

Urban Planning & Infrastructure

Public spaces and civic projects, transit infrastructure, streetscape and plaza design, public gathering spaces

AI Agents

Chatbots, conversational AI, AI assistants, AI agents, task automation

AI Development Tools

Development frameworks, AI APIs, machine learning platforms, AI builder tools

AI Infrastructure & Hardware

Training platforms, compute infrastructure, AI hardware, model training systems

Artificial Intelligence – Other

Computer Vision & Image Recognition

Vision systems, image recognition, object detection, visual AI, autonomous perception

Generative AI

Content generation, AI art tools, video generation, audio synthesis, creative AI

Language Models

Foundation models, language models, text generation models

Machine Learning

MLOps tools, training frameworks, data preparation tools, model optimization, feature engineering platforms

Beauty – Other

Beauty Tools & Devices

LED face masks, hair removal devices, facial cleansing tools, beauty devices, at-home beauty equipment

Cosmetic Treatments

Skincare products, facial treatments, anti-aging formulations, skin barrier repair, active ingredients

Makeup Innovation

Virtual makeup try-on, makeup formulations, color cosmetics, makeup application tools, AR beauty experiences

Skincare & Dermatological Products

Custom skincare, personalized cosmetics, DNA-based beauty, tailored formulations, beauty diagnostics

Communication Hardware & Devices

Meeting equipment, conferencing hardware, communication devices, headsets, collaboration tools

Connectivity & Communication – Other

Human Connection & Social Platforms

Social connection tools, community platforms, networking apps, relationship technology

Network & Telecommunications Infrastructure

Fiber optics, satellite systems, 5G equipment, wireless networks, internet infrastructure

Telecommunications Devices

Mobile hotspots, routers, network devices, connectivity hardware, communication equipment

Audio & Video Products

Headphones, earbuds, speakers, audio accessories

Cameras & Photography Equipment

Cameras, instant cameras, action cameras, dash cams, photography accessories

Computers & Tablets

Laptops, tablets, e-readers, computer accessories, storage devices

Consumer Electronics – Other

Phones & Mobile Devices

Smartphones, mobile phones, minimalist phones, mobile accessories

Smart Home Devices

Smart displays, thermostats, doorbells, home hubs, connected home devices

TVs & Home Theater

Televisions, projectors, streaming devices, home theater systems, soundbars, surround sound

Adaptive Learning

Adaptive learning systems, personalized curriculum, learning analytics, individualized education platforms

Assessment & Testing Technology

Testing platforms, evaluation software, grading systems, assessment technology, student evaluation tools

Classroom & Teaching Tools

Interactive whiteboards, classroom management systems, learning displays, educational hardware, teaching tools

Education – Other

Online Learning & Course Platforms

E-learning platforms, MOOCs, online courses, video learning, distance education

Backup Power & Portable Energy

Portable power stations, backup generators, portable solar chargers, emergency power systems, portable batteries

Energy & Utilities – Other

Energy Efficiency & Management

Smart home energy systems, energy monitoring, energy optimization, efficiency technology

Energy Generation Systems

Solar panels, wind turbines, power generation equipment, energy production technology

Energy Storage & Battery Technology

Battery systems, home batteries, grid-scale storage, energy storage solutions

Renewable Energy

Nuclear reactors, fusion energy, advanced energy generation, next-generation power systems

Utility Services & Grid Support

Utility management platforms, smart meters, service delivery systems, utility technology

Content Creation & Streaming Tools

Streaming equipment, creator tools, video production, broadcast technology

Entertainment & Gaming – Other

Entertainment Platforms

Ticketing platforms, event management, entertainment discovery, fan engagement, booking systems

E-Readers & Interactive Technology

E-readers, digital reading devices, media players, content viewing devices

Gaming Consoles, Software & Devices

Gaming consoles, handheld gaming, gaming hardware, game development tools, gaming services, cloud gaming, game engines

Live Entertainment Technology

Concert production, stage systems, lighting technology, performance venue tech, live event infrastructure

Apparel & Accessories

Clothing, garments, shapewear, undergarments, bags, footwear, accessories, fashion products

Fabrics Innovation

Novel textiles, innovative fabrics, alternative materials, fabric technology

Fashion – Other

Fashion Platforms & Software

Fashion analytics, trend forecasting, e-commerce platforms, resale marketplaces, fashion technology software

Blockchain & Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency platforms, blockchain applications, crypto wallets, digital assets, DeFi

Digital Banking

Digital banking apps, neobanks, mobile banking, account management platforms

Finance & Digital Assets – Other

Investment Tools

Investment apps, trading platforms, robo-advisors, wealth management, portfolio tools

Lending & Credit Services

Buy now pay later, lending platforms, credit products, loan services

Payment Systems & Technology

Payment processors, digital wallets, mobile payments, POS systems, payment platforms

Beverage Products & Storage

Beverages, functional drinks, brewing equipment, coffee/tea makers, beverage production, water filtration

Food & Drink – Other

Food Products & Innovation

Alternative proteins, plant-based foods, lab-grown meat, food preservation innovations, functional foods, food substitutes

Food Service & Restaurant Technology

Restaurant systems, kitchen automation, food delivery platforms, ghost kitchens, service technology

Kitchen Tools & Cookware

Smart cookware, kitchen gadgets, smart kitchen tools, automated cooking systems, precision cooking equipment

Meal Planning & Discovery

Meal kits, meal planning platforms, grocery technology, food discovery, shopping systems

Carbon Capture & Climate Mitigation

Carbon capture, carbon removal, climate monitoring, carbon tracking, climate tech

Environmental Monitoring & Data

Environmental sensors, monitoring systems, ecosystem tracking, environmental data platforms

Green Tech – Other

Nature Conservation

Wildlife protection tech, biodiversity monitoring, conservation platforms, ecosystem restoration technology, species tracking

Pollution Reduction

Air purification, water purification, emission reduction technology, waste reduction systems, contamination removal

Health & Wellness – Other

Home Health Monitoring

Health monitors, vitals tracking, blood pressure monitors, health measurement devices, health tracking apps

Mental Health & Meditation

Meditation apps, mental wellness platforms, therapy services, mindfulness tools, mental health support

Nutrition Tracking

Nutrition tracking, food logging apps, dietary monitoring, metabolic tracking, nutrition management

Personal Care & Wellness Devices

Massage tools, therapy devices, wellness equipment, self-care technology, personal wellness devices

Sleep Technology & Monitoring

Sleep trackers, sleep optimization, smart mattresses, sleep monitoring devices, sleep improvement

Appliances

Smart appliances, kitchen appliances, home appliances, connected home devices, smart refrigerators, robotic vacuums

Decor & Storage

Storage solutions, organizational systems, smart furniture, modular furniture, space-saving solutions

Garden & Outdoor Living

Gardening tools, lawn care, plant care, outdoor equipment, garden technology

Home Cleaning & Maintenance

Cleaning devices, home maintenance tools, cleaning technology, automated cleaning systems, cleaning equipment

Household – Other

Laundry & Garment Care

Washing machines, dryers, laundry systems, garment care, laundry accessories

Pet Care & Accessories

Pet feeders, pet toys, pet health products, pet care devices, pet technology

Fleet Management & Route Optimization

Fleet management systems, route planning, vehicle tracking, delivery optimization, fleet technology

Freight & Shipping Technology

Freight platforms, shipping systems, container tracking, freight matching, cargo technology

Inventory Management Systems

Inventory tracking, warehouse management, stock management, inventory software, supply tracking

Last-Mile Delivery

Delivery robots, autonomous delivery, final delivery solutions, local delivery technology

Logistics – Other

Supply Chain Platforms

Supply chain tracking, logistics platforms, visibility software, coordination systems

3D Printing

3D printers, additive manufacturing systems, rapid prototyping, printing technology

Manufacturing & Materials – Other

Manufacturing Processes & Equipment

Production equipment, manufacturing machinery, fabrication tools, processing systems, production technology

Materials Innovation

Novel materials, advanced materials, composite materials, material innovations, material science

Quality Control & Inspection

Inspection systems, quality assurance technology, defect detection, testing equipment

Diagnostics & Imaging

Diagnostic tools, imaging systems, medical imaging, diagnostic equipment, radiology technology

Healthcare Services

Telehealth platforms, patient care apps, healthcare delivery systems, home healthcare technology, health monitoring services

Healthcare Workforce Support

Staff scheduling, patient management systems, hospital administration tools, burnout prevention tools, staff wellness programs

Hospital & Clinical Equipment

Hospital equipment, clinical devices, monitoring systems, medical machinery, patient care equipment

Medical & Healthcare – Other

Medical Devices

Medical implants, pacemakers, prosthetics, insulin pumps, wearable medical devices, continuous monitoring systems

Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology

Vaccines, drugs, biologics, pharmaceutical innovations, biotech treatments, therapies

Surgical Innovations

Surgical systems, surgical tools, minimally invasive technology, surgical equipment

Adventure & Safety Equipment

Safety gear, emergency devices, avalanche equipment, rescue equipment

Camping & Hiking Gear

Tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, camp stoves, hiking equipment, climbing gear

Navigation & Outdoor Technology

GPS devices, navigation apps, trail planning tools, satellite messengers, weather technology

Outdoor Apparel & Footwear

Technical jackets, outdoor clothing, hiking boots, outdoor footwear, weather protection gear

Outdoor Recreation Equipment

Kayaks, paddleboards, mountain bikes, Fishing gear, trail cameras, snowshoes, recreational outdoor equipment

Outdoors – Other

Baby Gear

Cribs, changing tables, baby furniture, nursery equipment, baby essentials

Child Health & Safety

Baby monitors, smart cameras, GPS trackers, safety devices, child monitoring technology

Feeding Innovations

Bottles, breast pumps, formula makers, feeding systems, nursing products

Parenting – Other

Parenting Tools

Family organizers, parenting apps, tracking apps, child development tools, childcare services

Pregnancy & Fertility

Fertility trackers, pregnancy monitors, prenatal devices, fertility technology, pregnancy apps

Strollers & Transportation

Strollers, car seats, baby carriers, child transportation, travel systems

Content Authenticity & Verification

Deepfake detection, media verification, content authentication, digital forensics, content verification tools

Cybersecurity & Data Protection

Encryption tools, threat detection, security software, malware protection, intrusion detection, security platforms

Password Managers & Authenticators

Password managers, authentication devices, security keys, login protection, credential management

Personal Safety Devices

Personal alarms, emergency devices, safety wearables, self-defense tools, personal protection

Privacy & Security – Other

Privacy Tools & VPNs

VPN services, privacy software, encrypted communication, privacy protection, data security tools

Security Cameras & Systems

Smart locks, alarm systems, door locks, security hardware, surveillance systems, monitoring devices

Business Operations Software

CRM, sales tools, customer management, POS systems, business management software, operational platforms

HR & Workforce Management

HR platforms, recruiting software, workforce tools, employee management

Productivity – Other

Specialized & Technical Tools

Developer tools, accounting software, industry-specific platforms, technical business applications

Task & Project Management

Project management platforms, task management, workflow tools, note-taking systems, organizational tools

Workplace Collaboration

Team collaboration platforms, communication tools, meeting room equipment, collaboration hardware

Material Recovery & Sorting

Recycling technology, recycling programs, material recovery, upcycling

Refurbishment, Repair & Resale

Refurbished products, resale platforms, repair tools, secondhand marketplaces

Reusable Products & Resources

Reusable packaging, reusable containers, return systems, circular products

Reuse & Recycle – Other

Waste Management & Services

Waste systems, waste-to-energy, waste processing, waste reduction technology

Exploration & Remote Operation Robots

Space robots, underwater robots, disaster response, remote-operated systems, planetary rovers

Humanoid

Humanoid robots, bipedal systems, android robots, human-form robotics

Robotics – Other

Community Building & Engagement

Community programs, social connection tools, civic participation, collective benefit innovations

Developing Communities & Rural Areas

Products for remote areas, off-grid solutions, rural innovations, infrastructure-limited settings, appropriate technology

Disaster & Crisis Response

Emergency relief products, disaster response tools, crisis technology, rapid response innovations

Global Health & Humanitarian Aid

Affordable healthcare products, medical access tools, humanitarian health innovations, disease prevention

Inequality & Equity Solutions

Products for low-income communities, accessibility solutions, underserved populations, equity-focused innovations

Municipal & Civic Innovation

City programs, civic engagement tools, public benefit systems, policy implementation products, urban social initiatives

Social Impact – Other

Coaching & Analysis Platforms

Coaching apps, video analysis, performance analytics, training platforms, virtual coaching

Fitness Tracking

Performance trackers, sports watches, athletic monitoring, biometric tracking, heart rate monitoring

Recovery & Injury Prevention

Recovery devices, compression systems, massage tools, recovery equipment, rehabilitation devices

Sports & Fitness – Other

Sports Apparel & Gear

Performance apparel, athletic shoes, protective gear, sports equipment, temperature-regulating clothing

Training Equipment & Systems

Training machines, strength equipment, fitness equipment, workout systems

Active Play

Outdoor toys, active play equipment, sports toys, playground equipment, physical play

Board Games & Tabletop Games

Board games, card games, tabletop games, strategy games, family games

Creative & Arts Play

Art supplies, craft kits, creative play systems, maker toys, artistic toys

Dolls, Figures & Collectibles

Dolls, action figures, collectible toys, character toys, figurines

Interactive & Electronic Toys

Interactive toys, electronic games, tech toys, app-connected toys, smart toys

Toys & Play – Other

Automotive

Cars, trucks, buses, complete vehicle products

Maritime & Water Transportation

Boats, ferries, water taxis, maritime vehicles, water transportation innovations

Public Transit & Mass Transport Solutions

Trains, subways, buses, transit systems, mass transit innovations, high-speed rail, bus technology

Rideshare Services

Ride-hailing apps, carpooling platforms, autonomous rideshare, shuttle services, mobility-as-a-service, dynamic routing platforms

Scooters, E-Bikes & Micromobility

E-bikes, e-scooters, electric skateboards, personal mobility devices, shared mobility

Transportation – Other

Vehicle Technology & Infrastructure

Vehicle systems, charging stations, driver assistance, safety technology, transportation infrastructure

Experience & Tour Platforms

Tours, activities, destination experiences, travel experiences, guide services

Hotel & Hospitality Technology

Hotel systems, guest services tech, hospitality management, in-room technology

Luggage & Travel Gear

Luggage, travel accessories, travel products, gear innovations

Travel & Hospitality – Other

Travel Planning & Booking

Booking platforms, travel apps, trip planning, reservation systems, travel technology

Accessibility

Innovations improving life for the elderly and people with disabilities.

NEW

AI Integration

Leveraging artificial intelligence to personalize, optimize, and automate.

Apps & Software

Digital tools enhancing how we manage daily activities.

Experimental

Concept inventions and prototypes showing future potential.

Immersive Technology

Advancements in AR, VR, and immersive digital experiences.

NEW

Personalization & Customization

Innovations designed for individual adaptation and user configuration.

NEW

Product Design

Innovations elevating form, function, and user experience.

NEW

Subscriptions & Services

Non-tangible innovations transforming access, delivery, and experience.

Sustainability

Innovations integrating elements to reduce environmental impact.

Wearable Technology

Tech designed to be worn to enhance daily life.

Entry Deadlines & Fees

Early Deadline

March 6, 2026

($575 per entry)
Standard Deadline

April 10, 2026

($800 per entry)
Final Deadline

May 15, 2026

($925 per entry)
Honoree Announcement

October 2026

Questions? Check out our FAQs, Official Rules, and Privacy Policy.

You can also contact our Support team at any time.

FAQs

Any company, organization, agency, or individual involved in creating or marketing an invention that has – or will hit – a major milestone between October 2024 and October 2025 is eligible to submit an invention. More details about eligibility are available in our official rules.

If you have been honored in the past, we encourage you to apply again. Submit a new invention or the same invention again if it will reach – or you expect it to reach – a major milestone between October 2024 and October 2025.

This year, TIME Best Inventions 2025 is expanding the number of honorees to three hundred (300) to reflect the accelerating pace of global innovation. TIME is committed to recognizing a wide range of transformative ideas, technologies, and breakthroughs shaping our future.

The list is not ranked. All three hundred (300) inventions honored are considered TIME’s Best Inventions. There are also additional one hundred (100) Special Mention inventions named.

Yes, the application fee is $535 from March 26, 2025 through April 25, 2025 (Early Deadline); $745 from April 26, 2025 through May 23, 2025 (Standard Deadline); $895 from May 24, 2025 through June 27, 2025 (Final Deadline). The application fee applies to each category entered.

All applications must be received and fully completed by the relevant deadline: Early Deadline is April 25, 2025 at 11:59:59 p.m. PT; Standard Deadline is May 23, 2025 at 11:59:59 p.m. PT; Final Deadline is June 27, 2025 at 11:59:59 p.m. PT.

Yes, multiple inventions can be submitted by the same company, organization, agency or individual, but each invention requires its own application.

Yes, you can submit your invention in multiple categories, but a separate application fee will apply to each one. Your invention can only be recognized once. However, entering it in multiple categories ensures it will be evaluated against its peers. If your invention is a top contender in multiple categories, TIME's editors will choose the most suitable category.

Yes, even if your invention did not debut in 2025, you can apply if your invention has hit – or is expected to hit – a major milestone between October 2024 and October 2025. Examples of major milestones include: surpassing a sales goal, winning a major industry accolade, securing an important partnership, unveiling a working prototype, and/or announcing an expansion.

Yes, you can submit your invention if you can prove it has moved beyond the concept stage and is nearing completion. If your invention will stay in the prototype or concept stage for the foreseeable future, you can submit it in the Experimental category.

Yes, you can submit your invention provided it will be publicly announced on or before October 2025.

The Best Inventions list will be published in October 2025. The exact timing will be announced at a later date.

The list will appear and be promoted to TIME's global audience of 120 million across TIME's print magazine, website, and social media channels X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

All inventions chosen for the list receive a short write-up outlining its function and significance. Select inventions may also be featured on the cover of TIME.

While TIME cannot guarantee external promotion, the TIME Best Inventions list has historically garnered substantial global media attention. Additionally, you and/or your company can license TIME Best Inventions content and seal for use in your own marketing and promotional materials.

To compile the list of Best Inventions, TIME solicits nominations through an online application process, and conducts research via our global network of expert contributors and editors. The TIME editorial team then evaluates each contender on a number of key factors, including originality, efficacy, ambition, and impact.

We will notify applicants on a rolling basis in October 2025, prior to the list publication.

If you have additional questions, please reach out to help.timebestinventions@awards-support.com.