Colloidal quantum dot (CQD) optoelectronics offers a compelling combination of low-cost, large-area solution processing, and spectral tunability through the quantum size effect. Since early reports of size-tunable light emission from solution-synthesized CQDs over 25 years ago, tremendous progress has been made in synthesis and assembly, optical and electrical properties, materials processing, and optoelectronic applications of these materials. Here some of the major developments in this field are reviewed, touching on key milestones as well as future opportunities. Colloidal quantum dots offer a compelling combination of low-cost and large-area solution processing and spectral tunability via the quantum size effect. These materials are promising in a wide range of optoelectronic applications. The quarter-century-long history of the colloidal quantum dot field is reviewed, beginning with early discoveries in synthesis and physical chemistry, through foundational advances in materials processing, chemistry, and understanding, and concluding with an account of recent breakthroughs that have produced record-setting solar cells. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.