How TIME Chose the Best Inventions of 2026

Every year, TIME magazine puts together a list of the best new inventions. This year's list includes 300 groundbreaking ideas — and 100 special mentions. The inventions range from a brand-new foldable iPhone to a treatment that could help fight pancreatic cancer. TIME editors searched the world to find the most exciting and important new creations of 2026.

One of the biggest stories on the list is about Apple and its new CEO, John Ternus. Apple is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, and the company is making some big changes. In October, Apple plans to release its first-ever foldable iPhone, called the iPhone Duo. Ternus, who used to be Apple's head of hardware, became CEO just one month before this announcement. He even helped invent the folding technology — his name is on the original patent, which was filed about 15 years ago.

Ternus sat down with TIME for an exclusive interview on the magazine's cover. He talked about the iPhone Duo and what he hopes to do as the leader of one of the world's most famous companies. He said he wants to guide Apple through its next 50 years. It is a big responsibility, but Ternus seems ready for the challenge.

TIME has been publishing its Best Inventions issue for more than 25 years. Each year, the magazine shines a spotlight on the most important new products and ideas from around the globe. Editors and writers from all over the world send in their nominations. People can also apply online to have their invention considered for the list.

This year, TIME paid close attention to fast-growing areas like health care, artificial intelligence, and green energy. Every invention on the list was judged on several key factors. Those factors include how original the idea is, how well it works, how ambitious it is, and what kind of impact it could have on people's lives. Only the very best made the final cut.

The finished list shows just how creative people are right now. Some inventions use AI to help people who don't know how to code build their own websites. Others could save lives by treating serious diseases in new ways. These are creations changing how we live, work, play, and think about what's possible.