Trans-1-bromo-2-(trimethylsilyl)ethene is primarily used in organic synthesis as a versatile building block for the preparation of more complex molecules. Its unique structure, featuring both a bromine atom and a trimethylsilyl group attached to an ethene backbone, makes it valuable in cross-coupling reactions, such as Suzuki or Heck reactions, where it can act as an electrophile or a precursor to organometallic intermediates.

The trimethylsilyl group can also serve as a protecting group or be utilized in further functionalization, enabling the synthesis of substituted alkenes or other organosilicon compounds. Additionally, this compound is employed in the development of advanced materials, including polymers and liquid crystals, due to its ability to introduce specific functional groups into molecular frameworks.

Its reactivity and stability make it a useful reagent in medicinal chemistry for the synthesis of biologically active compounds.