Digitalization changes the entire value creation of manufacturing and the application of additive manufacturing technologies fits perfectly in the world of digital manufacturing. It drives a disruptive change in the product realization process, comparable to the advent of electric vehicles or alternative energy technologies. New materials, novel business models, complex product design with the integration of new functions, new applications and job profiles as well as legal and social aspects characterize this evolution. Besides these direct implications of additive manufacturing, superordinate connections play an increasingly important role in the future of manufacturing. Together with robotics, artificial intelligence, nanomaterials and other exponential technologies, additive manufacturing will significantly shape the future.