In this review, research on the preparation and characterization of TiO 2 -containing nanocomposites is considered. The preparations of nanocomposites by solgel and anodization methods are mainly explored. Nanocomposites are highly desired for some applications, and the means of controlling their functions to optimize performance is reviewed. The typical applications of TiO 2 -containing nanocomposites in photocatalysis and micropatterning are discussed.