Everything you need to know about the deprecation of Opentrons Python Protocol API version 1

With the release of software version 4.0.0, Opentrons will no longer support Python protocol API version 1. Here's what you need to know.

In our upcoming 4.0.0 software release and future releases, Opentrons will no longer support Python Protocol API version 1 (APIv1).

Last year, we launched Opentrons Python Protocol API (APIv2) version 2, a major update to the OT-2 core operating software and protocol programming interface that improves reliability and ease-of-use for Python API users, including:

— Significant updates to the software that defines the geometry of robots, modules, and labware ensure accurate and consistent execution of protocol commands.

— Simplified OT-2 troubleshooting, allowing support teams to more accurately diagnose and resolve issues.

— Updated protocol programming interface makes the API easier to learn and use.

Since the release of APIv2, we have continued development and added features and bug fixes, including 7 new API minor versions, support for new pipettes and modules, changes to motion parameters and pipette speeds.

However, we are no longer able to support both API versions and are migrating our systems to support APIv2. While retiring a product is always difficult, doing so will allow us to focus our efforts on a single strong, reliable product experience.

If you have not updated from APIv1 to APIv2:

Starting with 4.0.0, OT-2 software will no longer support protocols built with APIv1. You will continue to be able to run the APIv1 protocol using the current software version of the OT-2.

How to update the protocol from APIv1 to APIv2:

To ensure the best experience using OT-2 with this update, we recommend updating your APIv1 protocol as soon as possible. That's it:

• If you have an agreement and are willing to edit it yourself, read this short guide
• If you want to write a new protocol from scratch, read this document
• If you need help writing a new protocol or updating an existing protocol, please email our applications engineering team at protocols@opentrons.com

If you don't plan to update yet:

While Opentrons always recommends using the latest software version available, you can suppress notifications for new OT-2 software and Opentrons application versions if you are not ready to update. However, using an older software version means it will no longer receive bug fixes, and you may experience issues using the OT-2. When you're ready to update, navigate to the "More" tab in the Opentrons app and it will guide you through updating the app and robot software.

Need extra help? Please contact us at support@opentrons.com.