Titanium(IV) oxide in the anatase form is renowned for its photocatalytic activity under UV light, making it ideal for applications in self-cleaning surfaces, air purification, and antibacterial coatings. It is commonly applied in photocatalytic coatings on materials such as glass, ceramics, and cement, where it decomposes organic pollutants and inhibits bacterial growth.

In cosmetics, particularly sunscreens, anatase serves as a safe physical UV blocker, reflecting and scattering UV radiation without being absorbed by the skin, thus avoiding irritation.

While the rutile form is preferred for its superior light stability, anatase is used as a white pigment in select paints, coatings, plastics, printing inks, and paper products, providing high opacity, brightness, and coverage. Its photocatalytic properties can be advantageous in formulations requiring chemical reactivity, though it may degrade organic binders over prolonged UV exposure.

It is also approved as a colorant (E171) in certain food products to achieve a bright white appearance.

Due to its semiconductor properties, anatase finds use in dye-sensitized solar cells, gas sensors, and other optoelectronic devices.