The declaration was anticipated by those familiar with Musk’s ventures, which encompass Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, xAI, and The Boring Company. However, TIME’s editorial team contextualized the choice not solely in terms of Musk’s technological prowess, but also regarding his role as a cultural maverick, a disruptor whose influence resonates well beyond corporate offices and spaceports.
Musk’s anticipated Tesla Phone, featuring Neuralink integration and Starlink connectivity, is already being regarded as a potential competitor to the iPhone. Although it is still in the prototype phase, technology experts have identified it as one of the most significant threats to Apple and Google in the past decade.
This boldness in confronting established leaders across various industries is characteristic of Musk’s approach. In sectors such as electric vehicles, aerospace, telecommunications, and artificial intelligence, he aims for success—and frequently achieves it. Despite the undeniable impact of Musk’s innovations, his public persona is divisive.
He is both revered and criticized, often within the same discussion. His frequent and at times unpredictable activity on X (formerly Twitter) has attracted scrutiny, particularly regarding his political remarks and contentious business choices.
Nevertheless, even his detractors concede that no one has greater sway over the trajectory of contemporary technology. Whether influencing cryptocurrency markets through social media or launching satellites that transform global internet access, Musk shapes markets, opinions, and objectives.
One of Musk’s most ambitious projects, Neuralink, reached a significant milestone in 2025 by successfully conducting human trials with brain-machine interfaces. The potential consequences are extraordinary—ranging from enabling the paralyzed to walk again to facilitating direct communication between the brain and devices.
The triumph of Starship is evident, as it has become an essential component of NASA’s lunar objectives and private endeavors for Martian exploration. Its automated culinary system, viral marketing initiatives, and sustainable design have rendered it a phenomenon in both media and scientific circles.
With a wealth that has varied between $200 billion and $300 billion, and a reputation that swings between visionary innovator and chaotic disruptor, Elon Musk has positioned himself as the emblem of innovation in the 21st century. TIME’s acknowledgment confirms what many have long believed: this is indeed Musk’s time.
He has been labeled in numerous ways—a disruptor, a provocateur, a genius, and even a villain—but above all, his influence is irrefutable. His vision permeates every aspect of contemporary existence, from our modes of transportation and communication to the potential for human habitation on other planets.
Now, with TIME’s prestigious endorsement, Elon Musk is not merely shaping the future; he has been officially recognized as its architect.
