LEDs Are Creating a New Shape for the Light Bulb

The iconic shape of the light bulb has become the universal symbol for bright ideas ever since Thomas Edison patented the first one 135 years ago. But nothing lasts forever. “Legislation phased out the incandescent light bulb last year, and its replacement, the compact fluorescent lamp, or CFL, has its days numbered,” says Tom Boyle, chief innovation manager for consumer light at GE Lighting. “Efficient LEDs are the next big thing and there’s no reason for them to be shaped like the lamps they replaced.”