By using the antenna index to transmit information invisibly, spatial modulation (SM) technique can obtain high data transmission rate, and overcome the inter channel interference and synchronization problems effectively, as well as reduce the implementation complexity. Multiple input multiple output (MIMO) technique can significantly improve the capacity and spectrum ef ficiency of wireless communication system. To satisfy the high quality and data rate requirements of communication system, SM-MIMO technique emerges by combining SM and MIMO techniques and thus becomes the main research hotspot in the field of wireless communication. The paper summarizes the current research advancement of SM-MIMO from the basic principles and performance analysis. The prospect of SM-MIMO in application is also addressed. Finally, both the current achievement and the further research prospect in this field are discussed and summarized.