Hard Fork’s 50 Most Iconic Technologies of 2025

In this episode of Hard Fork, Kevin Roos and Casey Newton present their list of the 50 most iconic technologies of 2025. The countdown includes both serious and humorous selections, ranging from AI innovations like the Friend AI pendant, Cybertruck, and NanoBanana to more fundamental technologies such as the Constitution, air conditioning, paper, and glass. They also discuss cultural phenomena like plastic straws, zero-proof beverages, and the impact of TrumpCoin. The hosts analyze the significance of each technology, discussing their impact on society, culture, and the economy, while also sharing personal anecdotes and humorous commentary. They conclude with data centers as their number one pick, emphasizing their critical role in powering AI advancements and modern life, while also acknowledging the growing political and environmental controversies surrounding them.