In this paper, the perspective of lithium bis(oxalato)borate (LiBOB) as a possible candidate for the lithium ion batteries was evaluated on the basis of the knowledge accumulated thus far. Emphasis was placed on the electrochemistry of the BOB-anion on both graphitic anode and metal-oxide-based cathode surfaces. Certain issues associated with the impurity and safety of the salt in lithium ion systems were also discussed. Published by Elsevier B.V.