--- title: TIME Best Inventions of 2026 - TIME Best Inventions description: canonical: https://bestinventions.time.com/ og:locale: en_US og:type: website og:title: TIME Best Inventions of 2026 - TIME Best Inventions og:description: For more than 25 years, TIME Best Inventions has recognized the products, software, and services shaping our world—from breakthroughs in science and technology to innovations making the world better, smarter, and more fun. og:url: https://bestinventions.time.com/ og:site_name: TIME Best Inventions article:publisher: https://www.facebook.com/time article:modified_time: 2026-07-28T14:04:49+00:00 og:image: https://bestinventions.time.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2026/02/TIMEBI_2026_Header-1024x493.png og:image:width: 1024 og:image:height: 493 og:image:type: image/png twitter:card: summary_large_image twitter:site: @time ---  [Stay in the Loop](https://bestinventions.time.com/entries-closed/) ## About [Stay in the Loop](https://bestinventions.time.com/entries-closed/) [  ](https://time.com/collections/best-inventions-2025/) ### Genius Ideas, Recognized. For more than 25 years, TIME Best Inventions has recognized the products, software, and services shaping our world—from breakthroughs in science and technology to innovations making the world better, smarter, and more fun. Each year, TIME editors assemble a collection of the world’s most groundbreaking innovations, and yours could be among them. #### 2026 applications are now closed. [  ](https://time.com/collections/best-inventions-2025/) ### Genius Ideas, Recognized. For more than 25 years, TIME Best Inventions has recognized the products, software, and services shaping our world—from breakthroughs in science and technology to innovations making the world better, smarter, and more fun. Each year, TIME editors assemble a collection of the world’s most groundbreaking innovations, and yours could be among them. #### 2026 applications are now closed. [  ](https://time.com/collections/best-inventions-2024/) ### Genius Ideas, Recognized. For more than 25 years, TIME Best Inventions has recognized the products, software, and services shaping our world—from breakthroughs in science and technology to innovations making the world better, smarter, and more fun. Each year, TIME editors assemble a collection of the world’s most groundbreaking innovations, and yours could be among them. #### 2026 applications are now closed. [  ](https://time.com/collection/best-inventions-2023/) ### Genius Ideas, Recognized. For more than 25 years, TIME Best Inventions has recognized the products, software, and services shaping our world—from breakthroughs in science and technology to innovations making the world better, smarter, and more fun. Each year, TIME editors assemble a collection of the world’s most groundbreaking innovations, and yours could be among them. #### 2026 applications are now closed. [  ](https://time.com/collections/best-inventions-2022/) ### Genius Ideas, Recognized. For more than 25 years, TIME Best Inventions has recognized the products, software, and services shaping our world—from breakthroughs in science and technology to innovations making the world better, smarter, and more fun. Each year, TIME editors assemble a collection of the world’s most groundbreaking innovations, and yours could be among them. #### 2026 applications are now closed. [  ](https://time.com/collection/best-inventions-2021/) ### Genius Ideas, Recognized. For more than 25 years, TIME Best Inventions has recognized the products, software, and services shaping our world—from breakthroughs in science and technology to innovations making the world better, smarter, and more fun. Each year, TIME editors assemble a collection of the world’s most groundbreaking innovations, and yours could be among them. #### 2026 applications are now closed. * 2025 * 2024 * 2023 * 2022 * 2021 ## 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 Honorees become part of an exclusive group of industry leaders TIME editors return to throughout the year for coverage, expertise, and events. ## Testimonials > The recognition **helped us build credibility** and sparked interest from top bike tech reviewers and other publications—momentum that continues to drive global awareness and sales. Bimotal Elevate > Being named a TIME Best Invention created energy and excitement within the company, with our investors and our existing customers as well as **distinguished us with prospects**. Arkose Bot Manager > Our inclusion in the TIME Best Invention list **continues to generate pride in our team** and \[is\] one of the first milestones we mention on factory tours. KAV Portola Helmet > Being named a TIME Best Invention has **skyrocketed our global visibility** and played a part in increasing inbound distribution requests from potential partners worldwide. TernX Carry-On  ## TIME Best Inventions of 2025 The 300 inventions making the world better, smarter, and more fun. [See More ](https://time.com/collections/best-inventions-2025/) ## Categories Entries are evaluated across a wide range of sectors and features—from accessibility to sustainability, healthcare to fashion—and thoughtfully assessed on their originality, efficacy, impact, innovation. ### Invention Features These categories recognize standout qualities that define innovations regardless of industry. #### 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. ### Industry & Sector These categories recognize innovations by field, allowing your work to be measured against direct peers. #### Aerospace & Aviation * Aerospace & Aviation – Other * Aviation Infrastructure * Commercial Aviation * Drones & Unmanned Aerial Systems * Satellites * Space & Scientific Exploration #### Agriculture * Agriculture – Other * Crop Protection & Pest Management * Farming Equipment * Growing Systems & Infrastructure * Livestock Management * Precision Agriculture & Crop Monitoring * Seeds, Genetics & Crop Science #### Architecture & Built Environment * Architecture & Built Environment – Other * Architecture & Design * Construction & Engineering * Real Estate & Development * Urban Planning & Infrastructure #### Artificial Intelligence * AI Agents * AI Development Tools * AI Infrastructure & Hardware * Artificial Intelligence – Other * Computer Vision & Image Recognition * Generative AI * Language Models * Machine Learning #### Beauty * Beauty – Other * Beauty Tools & Devices * Cosmetic Treatments * Makeup Innovation * Skincare & Dermatological Products #### Connectivity & Communication * Communication Hardware & Devices * Connectivity & Communication – Other * Human Connection & Social Platforms * Network & Telecommunications Infrastructure * Telecommunications Devices #### Consumer Electronics * Audio & Video Products * Cameras & Photography Equipment * Computers & Tablets * Consumer Electronics – Other * Phones & Mobile Devices * Smart Home Devices * TVs & Home Theater #### Education * Adaptive Learning * Assessment & Testing Technology * Classroom & Teaching Tools * Education – Other * Online Learning & Course Platforms #### Energy & Utilities * Backup Power & Portable Energy * Energy & Utilities – Other * Energy Efficiency & Management * Energy Generation Systems * Energy Storage & Battery Technology * Renewable Energy * Utility Services & Grid Support #### Entertainment & Gaming * Content Creation & Streaming Tools * Entertainment & Gaming – Other * Entertainment Platforms * E-Readers & Interactive Technology * Gaming Consoles, Software & Devices * Live Entertainment Technology #### Fashion * Apparel & Accessories * Fabrics Innovation * Fashion – Other * Fashion Platforms & Software #### Finance & Digital Assets * Blockchain & Cryptocurrency * Digital Banking * Finance & Digital Assets – Other * Investment Tools * Lending & Credit Services * Payment Systems & Technology #### Food & Drink * Beverage Products & Storage * Food & Drink – Other * Food Products & Innovation * Food Service & Restaurant Technology * Kitchen Tools & Cookware * Meal Planning & Discovery #### Green Tech * Carbon Capture & Climate Mitigation * Environmental Monitoring & Data * Green Tech – Other * Nature Conservation * Pollution Reduction #### Health & Wellness * Health & Wellness – Other * Home Health Monitoring * Mental Health & Meditation * Nutrition Tracking * Personal Care & Wellness Devices * Sleep Technology & Monitoring #### Household * Appliances * Decor & Storage * Garden & Outdoor Living * Home Cleaning & Maintenance * Household – Other * Laundry & Garment Care * Pet Care & Accessories #### Logistics * Fleet Management & Route Optimization * Freight & Shipping Technology * Inventory Management Systems * Last-Mile Delivery * Logistics – Other * Supply Chain Platforms #### Manufacturing & Materials * 3D Printing * Manufacturing & Materials – Other * Manufacturing Processes & Equipment * Materials Innovation * Quality Control & Inspection #### Medical & Healthcare * Diagnostics & Imaging * Healthcare Services * Healthcare Workforce Support * Hospital & Clinical Equipment * Medical & Healthcare – Other * Medical Devices * Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology * Surgical Innovations #### Outdoors * Adventure & Safety Equipment * Camping & Hiking Gear * Navigation & Outdoor Technology * Outdoor Apparel & Footwear * Outdoor Recreation Equipment * Outdoors – Other #### Parenting * Baby Gear * Child Health & Safety * Feeding Innovations * Parenting – Other * Parenting Tools * Pregnancy & Fertility * Strollers & Transportation #### Privacy & Security * Content Authenticity & Verification * Cybersecurity & Data Protection * Password Managers & Authenticators * Personal Safety Devices * Privacy & Security – Other * Privacy Tools & VPNs * Security Cameras & Systems #### Productivity * Business Operations Software * HR & Workforce Management * Productivity – Other * Specialized & Technical Tools * Task & Project Management * Workplace Collaboration #### Reuse & Recycle * Material Recovery & Sorting * Refurbishment, Repair & Resale * Reusable Products & Resources * Reuse & Recycle – Other * Waste Management & Services #### Robotics * Exploration & Remote Operation Robots * Humanoid * Robotics – Other #### Social Impact * Community Building & Engagement * Developing Communities & Rural Areas * Disaster & Crisis Response * Global Health & Humanitarian Aid * Inequality & Equity Solutions * Municipal & Civic Innovation * Social Impact – Other #### Sports & Fitness * Coaching & Analysis Platforms * Fitness Tracking * Recovery & Injury Prevention * Sports & Fitness – Other * Sports Apparel & Gear * Training Equipment & Systems #### Toys & Play * Active Play * Board Games & Tabletop Games * Creative & Arts Play * Dolls, Figures & Collectibles * Interactive & Electronic Toys * Toys & Play – Other #### Transportation * Automotive * Maritime & Water Transportation * Public Transit & Mass Transport Solutions * Rideshare Services * Scooters, E-Bikes & Micromobility * Transportation – Other * Vehicle Technology & Infrastructure #### Travel & Hospitality * Experience & Tour Platforms * Hotel & Hospitality Technology * Luggage & Travel Gear * Travel & Hospitality – Other * Travel Planning & Booking [Stay in the Loop](https://bestinventions.time.com/entries-closed/) ## Deadlines & Fees Early Deadline ### [March 6, 2026](https://bestinventions.time.com/entries-closed/) $575 per category Standard Deadline ### [April 10, 2026](https://bestinventions.time.com/entries-closed/) $800 per category Final Deadline ### [May 15, 2026](https://bestinventions.time.com/entries-closed/) $925 per category Honoree Announcement ### [October 2026](https://bestinventions.time.com/entries-closed/) ## Past Honorees  L'Oréal Professionnel AirLight ProPhoto: Peter Garritano for TIME ### [2025](https://time.com/collections/best-inventions-2025/)  Agility Robotics Digit—Photo: Jo Whaley for TIME ### [2024](https://time.com/collections/best-inventions-2024/)  Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5—Photo: Elizabeth Renstrom for TIME ### [2023](https://time.com/collection/best-inventions-2023/)  Graphene Kitchen Styler—Photo: Sergiy Barchuk for TIME ### [2022](https://time.com/collections/best-inventions-2022/)  TimeChi—Photo: Margeaux Walter for TIME ### [2021](https://time.com/collection/best-inventions-2021/) ## FAQs Program Details * What is TIME Best Inventions? TIME Best Inventions is TIME’s annual list of the year’s most exceptional products, services, and breakthroughs reshaping industries and improving lives. * How many innovations are featured on the list? The list honors three hundred (300) innovations across industries and invention features, reflecting key global innovation trends. An additional one hundred (100) innovations are named as Special Mentions. * Is the list ranked? The list is not ranked. All 300 innovations are considered TIME’s Best Inventions of the year and are presented by their industry or invention feature category. * Is there a fee to enter? Yes, the entry fee is based on submission timing and is applied to each category entered: early deadline is $575, standard deadline is $800, and final deadline is $925. * Is there a deadline to enter? There are three entry deadlines: early deadline on March 6, 2026; standard deadline on April 10, 2026; and final deadline on May 15, 2026\. All deadlines close at 11:59:59PM Pacific Time Zone. * When will the list be published? The list will be published in October 2026\. The exact timing will be announced at a later date. * Where will the list be published? The list will appear and be promoted across TIME’s print magazine, website, and social media channels including X/Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Eligibility * What is the eligibility period? Any product, software, or service that has hit a major milestone between October 2025–October 2026 is eligible to enter. * Who is eligible to submit an entry? Any company, organization, agency, or individual involved in the creation or marketing of an innovation that has, or will, hit a major milestone within the eligibility period is able to submit an entry. * What qualifies as a major milestone? Major milestones include but are not limited to: releasing a new product, surpassing a sales goal, acquiring a major regulatory approval, securing an important partnership, unveiling a working prototype, or announcing an expansion. * Are past winners eligible to submit? Yes, you are eligible to enter again even if you have been featured on the list previously. You can submit a new innovation or the same one if it has, or will, hit a major new milestone within the eligibility period. * Am I eligible if my innovation did not debut in 2026? Yes, your innovation is eligible regardless of when it debuted, as long as it has, or will, hit a major milestone within the eligibility period. * Am I eligible if my innovation is in the prototype or conceptual phase? Yes, if your innovation will remain in the prototype or conceptual phase during the eligibility period but still shows significant originality, efficacy, ambition, and impact, you can submit it to the Experimental Invention Feature category. * Am I eligible if my innovation has not been publicly announced? Yes, you can submit your innovation provided it will be publicly announced by October 2026\. If you are submitting embargoed or confidential information, please note that in your entry form. Category Selection * What has changed about the categories? TIME Best Inventions has restructured its Industry & Sector categories to better reflect today’s innovation landscape. Categories are now organized under their corresponding sectors, allowing clearer navigation when applying and more precise peer comparison during judging. * How do the categories work? The categories are divided into sections: Invention Features—innovations with standout qualities—and Industry & Sector—advancements that shape their fields. Selecting the most suitable categories ensure you are evaluated among your true peers, and all categories are given equal attention by TIME editors. * What category should I submit in? Choose the Industry & Sector categories that best represent the field your innovation is impacting and/or any relevant Invention Features categories that highlight your innovation’s specific qualities. * What do the 'Other' categories mean? The ‘Other’ Industry & Sector categories are for innovations that don't fit clearly into the categories listed but still belong within that main sector. * Can I submit in more than one category? Yes, you can submit in more than one category with a separate fee applied to each category entered. While you can only be recognized once, entering across categories ensures your innovation is evaluated from various perspectives. * Can I submit more than one invention? Yes, multiple inventions can be submitted by the same company, organization, agency or individual, but each invention requires its own application. Entry Process & Management * Can I get a preview of the entry form questions? While we cannot provide a complete preview of the entry form, you can start the entry process, review all the questions and save your progress without submitting or paying. Payment is only required when you’re ready to submit your completed entry. * Can I save my entry as a draft and return to it later? Yes, you can save your entry as a draft, but you will need to create an account to save your progress. * Can I pay early to secure the lower fee and continue editing my entry after? To secure a specific pricing tier, your entry must be completed and submitted by that deadline at 11:59PM PT. You can continue editing until the deadline, but once it passes, your entry is considered final and ready for review. This ensures all entries are evaluated fairly and consistently. * Do you offer discounts for startups or non-profits? At this time, we do not offer discounted rates for TIME Best Inventions. The entry fees are the same for all applicants regardless of company size or organization type. * Can I edit my entry after submitting? Once your entry is submitted and the deadline has passed, the entry form cannot be edited. * Can sensitive information be kept confidential? Yes, if you are submitting confidential or embargoed information, please note that in the entry form and it will be honored. Judging & Selection * Who has access to my entry form details? Your entry materials are reviewed only by TIME’s editorial team and trusted expert contributors. Access is limited to this select group of judges to protect the confidentiality of all entries. * How do you choose the list? TIME solicits nominations through an online entry process and conducts research via their 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. * How many innovations are selected per category? There is no set number of innovations per category. The competitive landscape varies each year based on the quality and quantity of the entries. * What are the chances of making the list? While the entry fee guarantees your innovation is reviewed by TIME editors and puts your work on their radar, it does not guarantee selection for the final list. We cannot provide specific odds or acceptance rates for any category as the competitive landscape varies each year based on the quality and quantity of submissions. * Do you provide feedback on non-selected entries? Due to the high volume of entries, TIME editors are unable to provide individual feedback on non-selected entries. However, we do share key insights and business trends in our newsletter following the publication of the final list. Results & Recognition * When will I know if my innovation was chosen for the final list? TIME will notify honorees on a rolling basis a few weeks prior to the list publication in October 2026. * How will my innovation be featured by TIME? All innovations chosen for the list receive a short write-up in print and on [TIME.com](https://time.com/) outlining its function and significance. The list will also be promoted across TIME’s print magazine, website, and social media channels, plus select innovations may be featured on the cover of TIME. * How could my innovation be promoted in connection with the list? While TIME cannot guarantee external promotion, the list has historically garnered substantial global media attention. Honorees also become part of an exclusive network TIME editors turn to throughout the year for coverage and thought leadership opportunities. * Can I license promotional and marketing materials? Yes, if your innovation is selected for the list, you will have the option to license TIME Best Inventions content and seals for use in marketing and promotional materials. TIME will reach out directly to all honorees with details about licensing options. Additional Support * Do you offer office hours or support sessions? Yes, we host office hours sessions every season to answer questions and provide guidance on the entry process. To be notified when registration opens, please sign up for our newsletter. * Where can I find the terms and conditions? The official terms and conditions are available on [TIME.com](https://time.com/terms-and-conditions-time-2026-best-inventions-search/). Please review them before submitting your entry. * If I have more questions, who should I contact? If you have additional questions, please reach out to [help.timebestinventions@awards-support.com](mailto:help.timebestinventions@awards-support.com). ## Don't miss an update. ### #### By checking the box I agree and consent to the [Terms of Service](https://legal.time.com/terms-of-service) and [Privacy Policy](https://legal.time.com/us-privacy-policy/). sign up ### Stay in the loop. ##### ##### By checking the box I agree and consent to the [Terms of Service](https://legal.time.com/terms-of-service) and [Privacy Policy](https://legal.time.com/us-privacy-policy/). sign up ### Stay in the loop. ##### ##### By checking the box I agree and consent to the terms and conditions of the [Terms of Service](https://legal.time.com/terms-of-service?anonymousId=23fa9e73-0a02-4d69-81a8-cbf7c4ea0677)and [Privacy Policy](https://legal.time.com/us-privacy-policy/?anonymousId=23fa9e73-0a02-4d69-81a8-cbf7c4ea0677). sign up ```json {"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://bestinventions.time.com/","url":"https://bestinventions.time.com/","name":"TIME Best Inventions of 2026 - TIME Best Inventions","isPartOf":{"@id":"https://bestinventions.time.com/#website"},"about":{"@id":"https://bestinventions.time.com/#organization"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https://bestinventions.time.com/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https://bestinventions.time.com/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https://bestinventions.time.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2026/02/TIMEBI_2026_Header.png","datePublished":"2026-01-30T23:01:26+00:00","dateModified":"2026-07-28T14:04:49+00:00","description":"For more than 25 years, TIME Best Inventions has recognized the products, software, and services shaping our world—from breakthroughs in science and technology to innovations making the world better, smarter, and more fun.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https://bestinventions.time.com/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https://bestinventions.time.com/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https://bestinventions.time.com/#primaryimage","url":"https://bestinventions.time.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2026/02/TIMEBI_2026_Header.png","contentUrl":"https://bestinventions.time.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2026/02/TIMEBI_2026_Header.png","width":1920,"height":924},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://bestinventions.time.com/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https://bestinventions.time.com/#website","url":"https://bestinventions.time.com/","name":"TIME Best Inventions","description":"For over two decades, TIME Best Inventions has recognized the products, software, and services shaping our world.","publisher":{"@id":"https://bestinventions.time.com/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https://bestinventions.time.com/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://bestinventions.time.com/#organization","name":"TIME Best Inventions","alternateName":"TIME","url":"https://bestinventions.time.com/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https://bestinventions.time.com/#/schema/logo/image/","url":"https://timeinventions.intellam.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2025/03/intro-title-e1742586087437.png","contentUrl":"https://timeinventions.intellam.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2025/03/intro-title-e1742586087437.png","width":310,"height":107,"caption":"TIME Best Inventions"},"image":{"@id":"https://bestinventions.time.com/#/schema/logo/image/"},"sameAs":["https://www.facebook.com/time","https://x.com/time","https://www.instagram.com/time/?hl=en"]}]} ```