Used in organic photovoltaics as a near-infrared light absorber to enhance solar cell efficiency. Commonly applied in dye-sensitized solar cells due to its strong absorption in the 700–900 nm range. Also utilized in bioimaging for in vivo fluorescence imaging because of its deep tissue penetration. Employed in photothermal therapy as a photosensitizer to generate heat under NIR laser irradiation. Serves as a spectral sensitizer in photographic films and infrared detectors.