The synthetic utilities of acylgermanes are surprisingly rarely explored compared with their analogues. In this communication, the survey of aroyltrimethylgermane as potent synthetic origins has been studied. A variety of novel chemical transformations have been realized, including using the acylgermane group as a directing group in Rh-catalyzed aromatic C-H alkenylation reaction and Ir-catalyzed aromatic C-H amidation reactions. Additionally, a general approach for acylgermanes preparation has been established as well. The catalytic system proceeds effectively in the presence of Pd(OAc)2/BINOL-based monophosphite (L11) and allows for the straightforward access to a wide range of functionalized acylgermanes in high yields. Display omitted •The first carbonylation procedure for acylgermanes synthesis has been established•Synthetic transformations of acylgermanes have been developed•New BINOL-based monophosphite ligand is designed and applied Catalysis; Organic Synthesis; Organic Reaction; Chemical Synthesis