AbstractSome new photochromic bisthienylethene (BTE) derivatives containing carbazole were synthesized by Suzuki coupling method. All compounds were characterized by 1H NMR spectra, 13C NMR, mass spectra, etc. Their optical, photochromic, and electrochemical properties were described. Moreover, their two‐photon absorption (TPA) properties were investigated both in open and closed forms, finding observable distinction in the TPA of the ring‐open and ring‐closed forms. These compounds could be used as two‐photon switches and for the potential applications in three‐dimensional optical storage. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.