Used as a versatile intermediate in platinum-based catalysis and coordination chemistry. It serves as a starting material for synthesizing various platinum(II) complexes due to the labile nature of the benzonitrile ligands, which can be easily replaced by other donor ligands such as phosphines, amines, or N-heterocyclic carbenes. Commonly employed in the development of catalysts for hydrogenation, hydrosilylation, and C–H activation reactions. Also utilized in research focused on anticancer agent design, where it acts as a precursor to novel platinum complexes with potential cytotoxic activity. Its well-defined square planar geometry and stability make it valuable in structural and mechanistic studies.