This paper summarizes the development and the latest research progress on inorganic additives for lithium ion battery electrolytes. Combined with their working mechanisms, the inorganic additives are divided into three main categories: inorganic film-forming additives, transition metal salts and others. The important role of inorganic additives for lithium-ion battery electrolytes was described by analyzing their effects and working mechanisms. The future prospects of inorganic additives for lithium-ion bat...