Abstract: This paper presents a comprehensive overview of bismuth oxyhalide (BiOX, X = Cl/Br/I) materials and their multifunctional photocatalytic properties. The discussion focuses on three distinctive structural characteristics derived from their unique layered crystal architecture: the intrinsic electric field, tunable anionic layers, and morphological diversity. The review systematically examines the exceptional performance of BiOX materials in environmental remediation, clean energy production, and organic synthesis. Additionally, it explores their potential applications in emerging interdisciplinary fields such as self-cleaning coatings, flexible electronics, and biomedical diagnostics and therapy. The concluding section highlights the promising prospects of this material family as a “multi-talented” photocatalyst for future technological advancements.

Key words: Bismuth oxyhalide, Layered structure, Photocatalysis, Environmental remediation, Application