Background A myriad of new intubation devices has been introduced commercially since the appearance of Macintosh/Miller blades in the 1940s. Objective We review the new intubation devices that are relevant to current clinical practice. Contents: We mainly describe the comparative performance of new vs traditional direct laryngoscopes, their complications, their uses in awake intubation techniques and prediction of unsuccessful intubation with new devices. Trends In both predicted and unpredicted difficult or failed intubation, use of new intubation devices can obtain a high success rate of tracheal intubation. Most importantly, however, experience and competence of operators with any of the new intubation devices are critical for ensuring successful use in any clinical setting.