New optical oxygen-sensing materials make use of highly luminescent NIR platinum(II) and palladium(II) complexes with benzoporphyrins. Bulk optodes based on polystyrene and sensing nanobeads based on poly(styrene-block-vinylpyrrolidone) and polysulfone are prepared and characterized. The versatility of the new materials is demonstrated. The features include excellent compatibility with most common excitation sources, high brightness, and suitability for subcutaneous oxygen monitoring.