Synergistic triboelectric-electromagnetic hybrid nanogenerator for broadband energy harvesting towards next-generation internet of things

Triboelectric-electromagnetic hybrid nanogenerators (TENG-EMGs) have emerged as an effective strategy for harvesting low-frequency and irregular mechanical energy from our ambient environment. By integrating the inherently high-voltage output of triboelectric nanogenerators with the high-current capability of electromagnetic generators, hybrid harvesting systems can overcome the limitations of individual energy-harvesting mechanisms and thereby achieve enhanced power density, a wider operating bandwidth, and improved output stability. This review examines the fundamental working principles, structural configurations, and output characteristics of TENG–EMG hybrid nanogenerators. Recent progress in both device design and system integration is comprehensively discussed, with a particular focus on applications related to wireless sensing, wearables, medical health monitoring, wind and water wave energy harvesting. Applications in the area of, environmental and ecosystem monitoring, food quality inspection, search-and-rescue systems, and intelligent human-machine interfaces are also explored. Furthermore, the key challenges limiting large-scale deployment including durability, power management complexity, system miniaturization, and long-term operational stability are critically analysed. Finally, future research directions towards high-efficiency hybrid architectures, intelligent energy management, multifunctional integration, and practical commercialization are proposed. This review provides a comprehensive reference for advancing TENG-EMG hybrid nanogenerators for next-generation self-powered systems.