The fabrication of conducting polymers is briefly described. Advances in stability and processing characteristics, which have been the main barriers to the commercialization of these materials, are examined. The first commercial use of a conducting polymer in a 3 V, coin-sized primary battery is discussed. These batteries are compared with those produced using other technologies, and their possible applications are considered. Potential uses in electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, coatings, semiconductor devices, solar cells, and aircraft are discussed.