Some of the hottest tech trends of 2012, like mobile apps and solar energy, are changing the world for the better. This year, we saw a variety of inspiring innovations tackle some of the world's greatest challenges.
We've seen iPods help dementia patients, Android phones monitor carbon offsets and mobile apps prevent texting while driving.
From homelessness to electricity access, government accountability to deforestation, there are few problems tech can't address.
SEE ALSO:
The Top 5 Gadget Innovations of 2012
Take a look at these 12 tech solutions to major global challenges. What innovations were you most impressed with this year? Let us know in the comments.