Following
the immense popularity of the Raspberry Pi in the UK, BBC on Tuesday
announced a similar microcomputer called Micro:bit - a spiritual
successor to the original BBC Micro launched back in 1981. BBC intends
to distribute one million Micro:bit (also called Micro Bit) computers to
kids (11 to 12-year-olds) in the UK in October.
The Micro:bit
measures 4x5cm and will be available in a range of colours (not
specified). Some of the key features of this tiny computer are 25 red
LED lights, two programmable buttons, an accelerometer, compass,
Bluetooth Low Energy module, Micro-USB port, and five input and output
(I/O) rings to connect the Micro:bit to devices or sensors using
crocodile clips or 4mm banana plugs. An optional power pack powered by
AA batteries is required to use it as a standalone computer. The
Micro:bit's processor is based on an ARM Cortex-M0, and has been made by
Nordic Semiconductor.
BBC has constructed the Micro:bit in
partnership with 29
companies including ARM, Barclays, element14, Freescale, Lancaster
University, Microsoft, Nordic Semiconductor, and Samsung. BBC intends to
'inspire young people to get creative with digital; develop core skills
in science, technology and engineering; and unleash a new generation of
digital makers, inventors and pioneers.'
(Also see: Meet Chip, the 'World's First $9 Microcomputer')
The firm states that it
is doing this because UK is currently facing a critical skills shortage
in the technology sector. It is a part of BBC's Make it Digital
initiative to inspire kids to get creative with coding, programming and
digital technology. Notably, BBC also points out the Micro:bit programmable
computer is meant to be used in conjunction with other more complex
microcomputers like the Raspberry Pi and Arduino.
On the occasion
of the launch Tony Hall, Director-General of the BBC said, "Just as the
BBC Micro introduced millions to personal computers 30 years ago, the
BBC Micro:bit can help equip a new generation with the digital skills
they need to find jobs and help grow the UK economy. It's the unique
role of the BBC that allows us to bring together an unprecedented
partnership to deliver such an ambitious project."
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