Accurately controlling magnetic and spin states presents a significant challenge in spintronics, especially as demands for higher data storage density and increased processing speeds grow. Approaches such as light control are gradually supplanting traditional magnetic field methods. Traditionally, the modulation of magnetism was predominantly achieved through polarized light with the help of ultrafast light technologies. With the growing demand for energy efficiency and multifunctionality in spintronic devices, integrating photovoltaic materials into magnetoelectric systems has introduced more physical effects. This development suggests that sunlight will play an increasingly pivotal role in manipulating spin orientation in the future. This review introduces and concludes the influence of various light types on magnetism, exploring mechanisms such as magneto-optical (MO) effects, light-induced magnetic phase transitions, and spin photovoltaic effects. This review briefly summarizes recent advancements in the light control of magnetism, especially sunlight, and their potential applications, providing an optimistic perspective on future research directions in this area.
Keywords: antiferromagnetic; ferromagnetism; light and magnetism; light control of magnetism; light-induced phase transformation; magneto-optical effect; polarized light; spintronic; sunlight control of magnetism; unpolarized light.