Opentrons
Opentrons is a desktop app for controlling Opentrons lab robots, managing protocols, and updating robot software from a Mac, Windows, or Linux computer.
What is Opentrons?
Opentrons is a laboratory automation desktop app that helps scientists and lab staff control Opentrons robots from a computer. It is used with Opentrons Flex and OT-2 systems to connect to a robot over USB, Ethernet, or Wi‑Fi, import and run protocols, and manage setup tasks during automated workflows. The app supports common lab work such as preparing runs, transferring protocols to a robot, and monitoring compatibility between the app and robot software. It also provides prompts for software updates so the connected robot stays on a matching supported version. On macOS, the app is distributed as a native desktop download rather than through the Mac App Store. OpenTrons Labworks Inc publishes the software as part of its broader lab automation platform.
Key features
- Connect to Opentrons Flex and OT-2 robots from your computer
- Import protocols and transfer them to a robot for execution
- Run and manage automated lab workflows through a desktop interface
- Update robot software when app and robot versions do not match
- Use USB, Ethernet, or Wi‑Fi to communicate with supported robots
- Work across macOS, Windows, and Linux in mixed lab environments
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Safety overview
Status: Safe
This is legitimate lab automation software used to operate compatible Opentrons robots. Network and local device access are normal for its purpose because the app needs to communicate with lab hardware and transfer protocols. If you use it in a regulated or shared lab environment, keep the app updated and make sure only trusted protocols are imported and run. Removing it will prevent that Mac from controlling supported Opentrons robots until the app is installed again.
Recommendation: Keep Opentrons if this Mac is used with an Opentrons Flex or OT-2 system, or if anyone in your lab manages robot runs from this computer. If the robot is no longer used on this Mac, you can remove the app without affecting macOS, but that computer will lose its robot control and protocol management functions.
Common paths
/Applications/Opentrons.app
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