In this paper we elaborate on recently developed molecular switch architectures and how these new systems can help with the realization of new functions and advancement of artificial molecular machines. Progress in chemically and photoinduced switches and motors is summarized and contextualized such that the reader may gain an appreciation for the novel tools that have come about in the past decade. Many of these systems offer distinct advantages over commonly employed switches, including

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... ed fidelity, addressability, and robustness. Thus, this paper serves as a jumping-off point for researchers seeking new switching motifs for specific applications, or ones that address the limitations of presently available systems.