Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, has evolved into a mainstream manufacturing process over the past three decades. It builds parts by adding materials layer by layer based on a computerized 3D model, eliminating the need for traditional manufacturing tools and resources. AM allows for design optimization and on-demand production of customized parts, offering significant advantages over conventional methods. It is often referred to as the "third industrial revolution" due to its potential to transform society. This paper reviews the societal impact of AM from a technical perspective, highlighting its benefits in healthcare, environmental sustainability, and supply chain efficiency. It also identifies the need for further research in areas such as life-cycle energy consumption and occupational hazards. AM enables the production of customized healthcare products, improving population health and quality of life. It reduces environmental impact by minimizing waste and energy consumption, contributing to sustainability. Additionally, AM simplifies supply chains, enabling faster, more efficient production. However, challenges remain, including the need for better evaluation of energy consumption and potential occupational risks. AM technology involves three basic steps: creating a 3D model, converting it into a standard file format, and using an AM machine to build the part layer by layer. Different AM processes use various methods to build and consolidate layers, such as thermal energy from lasers or inkjet printing heads. Major AM processes include fused deposition modeling (FDM), inkjet printing (IJP), and laminated object manufacturing (LOM). Each has its advantages and disadvantages, such as FDM's layer seam lines and IJP's fragile print heads. The development of AM has led to significant progress, with expectations of revolutionizing the manufacturing industry and providing various societal benefits. These include customized healthcare products, reduced environmental impact, and more efficient supply chains. Despite these benefits, further research is needed to fully understand and optimize the societal impact of AM.Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, has evolved into a mainstream manufacturing process over the past three decades. It builds parts by adding materials layer by layer based on a computerized 3D model, eliminating the need for traditional manufacturing tools and resources. AM allows for design optimization and on-demand production of customized parts, offering significant advantages over conventional methods. It is often referred to as the "third industrial revolution" due to its potential to transform society. This paper reviews the societal impact of AM from a technical perspective, highlighting its benefits in healthcare, environmental sustainability, and supply chain efficiency. It also identifies the need for further research in areas such as life-cycle energy consumption and occupational hazards. AM enables the production of customized healthcare products, improving population health and quality of life. It reduces environmental impact by minimizing waste and energy consumption, contributing to sustainability. Additionally, AM simplifies supply chains, enabling faster, more efficient production. However, challenges remain, including the need for better evaluation of energy consumption and potential occupational risks. AM technology involves three basic steps: creating a 3D model, converting it into a standard file format, and using an AM machine to build the part layer by layer. Different AM processes use various methods to build and consolidate layers, such as thermal energy from lasers or inkjet printing heads. Major AM processes include fused deposition modeling (FDM), inkjet printing (IJP), and laminated object manufacturing (LOM). Each has its advantages and disadvantages, such as FDM's layer seam lines and IJP's fragile print heads. The development of AM has led to significant progress, with expectations of revolutionizing the manufacturing industry and providing various societal benefits. These include customized healthcare products, reduced environmental impact, and more efficient supply chains. Despite these benefits, further research is needed to fully understand and optimize the societal impact of AM.