The high prevalence of blindness associated with cataract is an urgent public health issue. Femtosecond (FS) laser offers several advantages over conventional laser, such as high penetration, short pulse-duration and micro-precision. Since 2009, several types of FS laser systems have been applied to cataract surgery, offering novel approaches to the three steps of clear corneal incision (CCI) construction, anterior capsulotomy and lens fragmentation. Superior accuracy, predictability, reproducibility and safety have been achieved with use of this innovative technology. However, certain problems remain unresolved. More studies are needed to clarify the optimal utilization of FS in cataract surgery. The purpose of this review is to outline the features, applications, benefits and risks of FS in cataract surgery, and to discuss current scientific evidence and relevant commercial issues.