biostudies-literatureSalazar-Villacis PRCUK | Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)EC | Horizon 2020 Framework Programme (EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation H2020)99https://www.ebi.ac.uk/biostudies/studies/S-EPMC12923569biostudies-literatureUnknown9(1)Laboratory robotics is advancing from routine automation toward autonomous systems capable of intelligent decision-making and flexible execution. This perspective outlines key milestones and introduces the ADePT framework, which defines four core dimensions of robotic capability proficiency: adaptability and learning, dexterity, perception, and task complexity. We discuss future directions for self-driving laboratories, including robot-centric, end-to-end robotic integration, and collaborative human-robot environments. These scenarios highlight the importance of technological enablers and evolving regulatory paradigms. By connecting present technologies to emerging system configurations, this work offers a foundation for designing autonomous laboratory ecosystems that support scientific diCommunications chemistryThe ADePT framework for assessing autonomous laboratory robotics.PMC12923569101057430EP/V062077/1Salazar-Villacis PBenyahia BfalseThe ADePT framework for assessing autonomous laboratory robotics.Laboratory robotics is advancing from routine automation toward autonomous systems capable of intelligent decision-making and flexible execution. This perspective outlines key milestones and introduces the ADePT framework, which defines four core dimensions of robotic capability proficiency: adaptability and learning, dexterity, perception, and task complexity. We discuss future directions for self-driving laboratories, including robot-centric, end-to-end robotic integration, and collaborative human-robot environments. These scenarios highlight the importance of technological enablers and evolving regulatory paradigms. By connecting present technologies to emerging system configurations, this work offers a foundation for designing autonomous laboratory ecosystems that support scientific di2026-01-01T00:00:00Z2026 Feb2026-07-16T14:50:01.081Z2026-07-09T11:02:57.485ZS-EPMC129235694172092110.1038/s42004-026-01932-9