"I wanted to create a project that would speed up computers and things. I worked on it a little bit and it sort of came to me after a couple of weeks."
The result was a computer operating system, similar to Microsoft Windows, that would be easy and fast to use.
"You install it on your computer and basically it's an alternative to Windows ... it allows you to do everything that Windows does - but it's more efficient and faster. It's simple and it runs faster on computers."
The most important aspect of his system, however, was that the software could be used on older computers - to help reduce the huge number of computer machines and e-waste that end up in landfills all around the world each year.
"[The software] was made for people who are using older operating systems on their computers that were not being supported any more."
He also wanted to make something that would be affordable and easily accessed by people living in developing countries.
Isaac is one of just two New Zealand youngsters who have been named as finalists in the competition.
The other finalist is 14-year-old Ayla Hutchinson, of Taranaki.
Ayla's creation, the Kindling Cracker, was developed after her mother hurt herself with an axe while chopping kindling.
She came up with the idea of creating a cradle-like base to hold a stationary blade.
A person could then place a piece of wood into the cradle and on top of the blade and, using a mallet, strike the piece of wood - cutting it safely.
A total of 15 entries will be announced as the winners in early August.
The winners will get to travel to search giant Google's headquarters, in the US, where they will showcase their creations.
