Core Insights - The article emphasizes the transformative impact of AI on design and its integration into various applications, reshaping daily life and work experiences [1][2] - It highlights the evolving role of designers from mere creators to value anchors, focusing on human emotions and needs in their designs [2][4] Group 1: AI Integration in Design - AI has emerged as a "super brain" for designers, enhancing their creative processes while emphasizing the importance of human judgment [2] - Numerous projects on this year's list incorporate AI technology, aiming to resonate with human emotions and fulfill real needs, such as the AI Eva intelligent cockpit assistant [2][85] - The rise of humanoid robots like the Expedition A2 marks a significant step in AI's physical integration into various service roles [7] Group 2: Social Impact of Design - The most compelling designs leverage technology to address societal vulnerabilities, such as artificial hearts for heart failure patients and bionic knee joints for the disabled [3] - Projects like the humanized customer service approach by Neusoft demonstrate a commitment to personal interaction over automation, particularly for elderly patients [3][21] - Designs that utilize "low-tech" solutions to meet emotional needs, such as aesthetic improvements in public restrooms, showcase a focus on human dignity [3][22] Group 3: Sustainability in Design - Sustainable practices have evolved from material innovation to systemic thinking, with projects like Elix Water's 100% recyclable paper bottles replacing plastic [4][102] - The production line by Shenghong captures CO2 from industrial gases to create fashionable fabrics, illustrating a shift towards sustainable design as a core requirement [4][62] Group 4: Notable Projects - The list of 50 projects showcases a deep dialogue between technology and humanity, highlighting the core value of designers in the AI era: empathy and insight [4] - Examples include the HEATTECH series by Uniqlo, which combines comfort and warmth through innovative fabric technology [14] - The eVTOL cargo aircraft by Shanghai Fengfei Aviation Technology represents a significant advancement in low-altitude logistics and emergency response applications [10][11]