DOI: 10.1002/cptc.70243 ISSN: 2367-0932

Cobalt in the Spotlight: Advances in Photocatalytic Cross‐Coupling Reactions

Tapas Ghosh, Sk Shamim Ahamed, Sena Tastekin, Burkhard König

Cobalt‐mediated photocatalysis has emerged as a compelling strategy for promoting cross‐coupling reactions under visible‐light irradiation, offering an earth‐abundant and redox‐flexible alternative to precious metal catalysts. This review surveys recent advances in cobalt‐photocatalyzed bond‐forming transformations, with a particular focus on four key coupling types: CC, CS, CN, and CO. We critically examine developments across these categories, highlighting mechanistic insights, dual catalytic strategies, substrate scope, and limitations. Special emphasis is placed on the unique advantages cobalt offers over other transition metals (like Ni, Cu, etc.) in terms of redox versatility, photochemical responsiveness, and sustainability. Additionally, we explore emerging directions in the field, including acceptor‐less couplings, photocatalyst‐free systems, flow applications, and enantioselective catalysis. By outlining both current achievements and unresolved challenges, this review aims to position cobalt‐mediated photocatalysis as a versatile and sustainable platform for next‐generation cross‐coupling chemistry under visible light.

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