• This review comprehensively examines recent advancements in passive wireless systems applied to industrial environments and biomedical sensing, with a particular focus on the design strategies of passive wireless systems.
• The design principles and operational mechanisms of passive wireless system components (sensing modules and readout modules) are systematically categorized.
• Based on the latest research, the review highlights the innovative applications of passive wireless concepts in industrial environments, equipment safety, as well as in vivo and surface signal detection.
• The paper outlines a research trajectory for passive wireless sensing, establishing a foundation for more advanced, user-friendly applications in harsh environments and healthcare.