13 Dec 2025

Time honours leading AI architects worldwide

The magazine highlights economic, political and social shifts driven by rapid AI expansion.

Time magazine has named the so-called architects of AI as its Person of the Year, recognising leading technologists reshaping global industries. Figures highlighted include Sam Altman, Jensen Huang, Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Lisa Su, Demis Hassabis, Dario Amodei and Fei-Fei Li.

Time emphasises that major AI developers have placed enormous bets on infrastructure and capability. Their competition and collaboration have accelerated rapid adoption across businesses and households.

2025 was the year when artificial intelligence’s full potential roared into view, and when it became clear that there will be no turning back.

For delivering the age of thinking machines, for wowing and worrying humanity, for transforming the present and transcending the… pic.twitter.com/mEIKRiZfLo
— TIME (@TIME) December 11, 2025

The magazine also examined negative consequences linked to rapid deployment, including mental health concerns and reported chatbot-related lawsuits. Economists warn of significant labour disruption as companies adopt automated systems widely.

The editorial team framed 2025 as a tipping point when AI moved into everyday life. The publication resisted using AI-generated imagery for its cover, choosing traditional artists instead. Industry observers say the selection reflects AI’s central role in shaping economic and social priorities throughout the year.

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