Feature requests refer to suggestions to perfect existing features or requests for new features proposed by software users on open platforms, and they can reflect users’ wishes and needs. In addition, efficient and accurate analysis and processing of feature requests play a vital role in improving user satisfaction and product competitiveness. With users’ active participation, feature requests have become an important source of software requirements. However, feature requests are different from traditional requirements in terms of source, content, and form. Therefore, methods of applying feature requests to software development must differ from that of traditional requirements. At present, massive research focuses on applying feature requests to software development, e.g., feature requests’ acquisition, classification, prioritization, quality management, developer recommendation, and location of relevant codes. As related research emerges constantly, it is increasingly necessary to review user feature request analysis and processing. This study analyzes 121 global academic research papers on how to analyze and process feature requests in the software development process and systematically sorts existing research results from the perspective of applying feature requests to software development. In addition, the study summarizes research topics on feature requests, suggests that feature requests be applied to software development, and makes a comparison with traditional requirements engineering processes. Furthermore, it analyzes existing research methods of different requirement engineering and points out the difference. Finally, the research direction of feature requests is discussed to provide guidance for future researchers.