We report two ESIPT active novel fluorescent probes, 1 and 2, based on benzoxazole benzimidazole units, respectively. Their sensing aptitude towards metal ions in aqueous media is reported. A specific response of to Al3+ and, a lesser extent, Zn2+, was found, while the emission 2 highly impacted by Al3+, Cu2+, Fe2+ Fe3+ either blue shift or quenching emission. Emission also shows relative sensi...