Today sees the next chapter in the micro:bit story unfold with the announcement of micro:bit V2. It's been talked about for a while and now it's finally here! This isn't just a new firmware update either, it's a new board with new tech and new features! If you are familiar with the original microbit, then you'll feel immediately at home with version 2 as it is the same size and shape and looks very similar.
The good news is that all of the original micro:bit features are also present in version 2. Additionally, the blocks in the MakeCode editor for the old features are exactly the same. If you have experience of micro:bit V1, the learning curve for V2 is very shallow, get to grips with the new features and you are all set!
Announcing micro:bit V2:
The latest version of micro:bit brings its new features and enhancements without requiring that you rebuild your projects, anywhere V1 fit --V2 will fit also. Let's see what the new board can do!
- USB, Radio, serial, and Bluetooth connectivity.
- A Compass and Accelerometer.
- 2 x user-assignable buttons.
- A fully programmable 25 LED display.
- 25 pin notched edge connector.
- Onboard speaker.
- MEMs Microphone with LED indicator.
- Touch-sensitive logo.
- Light level sensing.
- Temperature sensing.
- Built-in sleep/off mode allowing the board to be powered-down with batteries connected.
- A discrete regulator that can supply up to 200mA of current to external accessories.
What's New/Enhanced In microbit V2:
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The new features are;
- Onboard speaker.
- MEMs Microphone with LED indicator.
- Touch-sensitive logo.
- Built-in sleep/off mode allowing the board to be powered-down with batteries connected.
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The enhancements are;
- Notched edge connector. To make it easier to connect things like crocodile clips and also conductive thread.
- Power LED indicator. In addition to the USB activity indicator.
- Gold plated antenna. To easily identify the radio and Bluetooth component.
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The technology improvements are;
- A new processor.
- Increased memory.
- Dedicated I2C bus for peripherals.
- Bluetooth upgrade from 4.0 to 5.0.
- 200mA is available for accessories (previously 90mA).
Video:
Find out more:
If you want to learn more about micro:bit v2 and micro:bit in general, then check out the links below.
- micro:bit V2 product page.
- micro:bit V1 and V2 features comparison.
- How to convert V1 hex files to V2 Universal hex files.
- The micro:bit Foundation website.
- Kitronik University micro:bit resources and guides.
- MakeCode - For blocks, javascript, and python editors.
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