Every year, Time Magazine honors individuals or groups who have significantly impacted global events. The tradition dates back to 1927 when Charles Lindbergh became the first recipient for achieving a historic solo transatlantic flight. Since then, the title has recognized a diverse array of figures, from Mahatma Gandhi to contemporary icons like Barack Obama and Taylor Swift. Most recently, Donald Trump earned this title for the second time.
This year, however, Time broke the mold by selecting “The Architects of AI,” a choice that left some scratching their heads and prediction market enthusiasts disappointed. Featured on the cover are influential personalities in the AI sector, including Mark Zuckerberg from Meta, Sam Altman of OpenAI, Jensen Huang from Nvidia, and Lisa Su from AMD—famously posed atop a steel beam in a nod to the iconic “Lunch Atop a Skyscraper” photo.
In the magazine’s accompanying feature, the authors Charlie Campbell, Andrew R. Chow, and Billy Perrigo state, “This is the story of how AI changed our world in 2025, in new and exciting and sometimes frightening ways…” Their narrative delves into how these tech visionaries are shaping our future, impacting various fields such as information distribution and environmental stewardship.
Time Magazine has honored groups before; notable instances include the Apollo astronauts in 1968 and the Me Too movement in 2017. Interestingly, the publication hasn’t always chosen human entities—1982 saw “The Computer” claim the title, and in 1988, “The Endangered Earth” was named “Person of the Year.”
Given AI’s prominence, many expected it could be named on its own this year. Cities across the world were abuzz with speculation, and it even became a hot topic in prediction markets. Other contenders included Donald Trump and Elon Musk, but the choice of a group left some feeling a little shortchanged.
Frustrated bettors on Polymarket expressed their grievances, with one user stating, “AI could mean the AI industry… if no other people were listed…” while another called it a “big scam.” The sentiment reflects a broader expectation that AI could assume a leadership role in the near future.
Who knows? If AI continues on its trajectory of promise and innovation, perhaps it will earn that recognition soon. Imagine a world where AI holds the title of the last “Person of the Year,” marking a pivotal shift in our relationship with technology.
What factors led to AI’s recent prominence in discussions? The rapid advancements in machine learning and automation have captured global attention and transformed industries.
How does Time Magazine select its Person of the Year? The decision is based on the impact of the individual or group on the year’s events, as determined by the editors of the publication.
What historical significance does the title “Person of the Year” hold? It highlights individuals or groups that have significantly influenced societal events and conversations, often reflecting changing public opinions and concerns.
Is there a possibility for AI to become an independent honoree in the future? As AI continues to grow and evolve, many believe it could very well be recognized as a standalone entity, influencing global affairs.
The discourse around AI is heating up, and Time’s choice serves as a reflection of its impact on society. Feel inspired to dive deeper into the dialogue surrounding technology and its implications? Explore more at Moyens I/O.