In this paper, I will describe how exciting advances in fundamental materials chemistry is providing the basis of new concepts in chemical sensing that will underpin the next generation of reliable devices capable of long-term operation in remote locations. Among the examples I will present will be opto-fluidics based on photoresponsive actuators to control liquid flow in microfluidic platforms, which,when coupled with photo-detection of sample analytes, opens the way to physically sealed units that are completely controlled using light. In addition to flow control, I will demonstrate how advanced functions such as selective uptake and release of molecular guests, and even movement of micro-vehicles like functional droplets and beads can be controlled using light. Harnessing the potential of these exciting materials with highly innovative engineering design and fabrication technologies is the key to the disruptive breakthroughs that are sure to emerge over a timescale that may be much shorter than we currently imagine.