Our technology team has been keeping an eye on the top innovations from 2025. Here are their top picks:
3D-Printed SoftFoot Pro prosthetic
SoftFoot Pro is a motorless, flexible bionic foot designed by the Italian Institute of Technology (IIT) in collaboration with the Research Centre, E. Piaggio at the University of Pisa. Drawing inspiration from the human foot’s structure, this waterproof design delivers natural motion, stability, and adaptability. It represents a major advancement for prosthetic users and opens new possibilities for future humanoid robotics.
Osmotic power systems in Japan
Japan has launched an osmotic power plant in Fukuoka, using brine and treated water to deliver continuous, weather-independent renewable energy. The technology could also enable desalination (removing salt and minerals from saline water) and lithium recovery, creating multi-functional infrastructure for energy and water management.
3D‑printed bioplastic water corridor
Arthur Mamou-Mani unveiled Harmonic Tides – two rippling-effect walls 3D printed from sugar-based PLA bioplastic and assembled from modular panels. The installation created a sensory ‘water corridor’ for passersby, using LED lighting and ambient sound to simulate underwater currents. The creation was selected as the winning entry of the Shaping Water Competition.
3D‑printed heart valves that support tissue regeneration
Researchers at Technical University of Munich have 3D-printed heart valves using melt electrowriting (an additive manufacturing technique), creating biodegradable scaffolds that let patients’ cells grow into new tissue. This approach could provide lifelong implants for children and includes MRI-visible materials for monitoring.
3D‑printed denim drives circular fashion innovation
Designer Danit Peleg and her team prototyped a hybrid, 100% recycled TPU‑denim pellet for large‑format 3D printing. They produced a 70 x 70 cm textile sample in under 30 minutes, showcasing potential for circular, on-demand fashion with zero excess material.
Microneedle patch and antibody drug to regrow teeth
Seoul National University have developed a microneedle patch capable of stimulating dormant tooth stem cells to regenerate enamel and even grow new teeth in adults. This discovery not only redefines oral health but also paves the way for advances in bone regeneration and regenerative medicine.
First 3D‑printed Starbucks opens in Texas
Starbucks 3D printed its first store! The 1,400 sq ft, drive‑thru store in Brownsville, Texas, was built with PERI/COBOD concrete printing and completed on‑site in days – signalling mainstream adoption of construction additive manufacturing.
Fungi‑powered, 3D‑printed biodegradable biobatteries
EMPA researchers 3D printed microbial, biodegradable fuel cells that combine yeast and white rot fungi and feed on simple sugars to power small sensors for days. This could be a game changer for powering devices in the future, potentially replacing graphene batteries and Lithium-ion that are hazardous to dispose.
World’s first 3D‑printed mobile home
Lemki Robotix 3D printed a lightweight campervan from recycled polypropylene reinforced with fibreglass using a process called Fused Granulate Fabrication (FGF). The van is off‑grid capable, smart‑sensor enabled, and 80% recyclable, allowing for more cost-effective production at scale.
Biodegradable TreeSoil for saplings
Technion researchers have developed TreeSoil, a 3D-printed biodegradable structure that supports sapling growth by mimicking soil properties and providing stability. Its interlocking brick design enables modular construction, quick on-site assembly and structural strength. This innovation aims to improve reforestation with sustainable on-demand solutions.
