Abstract: The emergence of digital prototype has replaced the traditional physical prototypes in terms of geometric properties and functional characteristics, which effectively reduces the unnecessary repeated tests in the trial production process. Therefore, the production cost is reduced, the time investment is significantly reduced, and the product quality is improved. This paper briefly introduces the concept of digital prototype, the research status of digital prototype at home and abroad, as well as the 1.0 and 2.0 characteristics of digital prototype development. The application of digital prototypes in each stage is analyzed from the perspective of the entire product lifecycle, with a focus on the key role of digital prototypes in the design and maintenance stages of products. Finally, the challenges faced by the development of digital prototype technology and the future development prospects are described. The discussion of the paper provides a reference for the researchers of digital prototypes.