The “strangest camera that I’ve ever used” has a wonderfully weird decade dial – and now it’s a 2026 Invention of the Year

The Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Cinema is a rather unusual camera, featuring a time-traveling dial reminiscent of fashion from different eras. This instant film camera is capable of "printing" video content, resulting in a truly distinctive device. Upon trying out the Evo Cinema earlier this year, I described it as the "strangest camera I've ever used" due to the captivating decade dial that allows users to select a specific video aesthetic from the past.

The camera's design exudes an air of vintage charm, drawing comparisons to an old Super 8 video camera with its trigger-style recording mechanism. The editorial team at Time magazine recognized the Evo Cinema's unique qualities, awarding it a spot on their prestigious list of Best Inventions for 2026. The selection process for these awards is based on four criteria: originality, efficacy, ambition, and impact.

The Evo Cinema's uniqueness is evident in its unconventional design, and merging the Instax still photo system with video recording undoubtedly demonstrates ambition. The camera's appeal lies in its blend of analog charm and digital functionality, boasting a 5MP 1/5-inch sensor and an integrated printer that utilizes Instax Mini film.

This retro-inspired camera shares some features with other Instax digital hybrids, such as similar sensor sizes and built-in printing capabilities. The Instax Mini Evo Cinema joins an impressive list of award-winning inventions, which also includes the Nikon ZR for its compact design combined with a full-frame sensor and RED color science, and GoPro's first mirrorless camera, the Mission 1 Pro ILS.

Additionally, TIME's list of Best Inventions for 2026 features a range of innovative gadgets, such as the HooverAir Aqua waterproof drone, Aura's e-Ink digital picture frame, Honor's gimbal-clad Robot Phone, and even a light meter named the Lit Duo 1. It's quite fitting that the time-traveling Instax Mini Evo Cinema is now celebrated as one of the most groundbreaking inventions of 2026.