Raspberry Pi Pico 2 W: A New Chapter for IoT Innovation

• Chinmay
• November 26, 2024
• New Product Release, News
• Bluetooth 5.2, IoT development, maker projects, MicroPython, Pico 2 W, Raspberry Pi, RP2350 microcontroller, wireless IoT
• 0 Comments

Raspberry Pi has unveiled the Pico 2 W, an enhanced wireless variant of the summer-released Pico 2, setting the stage for the next wave of Internet of Things (IoT) projects. Priced at an affordable $7, the Pico 2 W is built on the advanced RP2350 microcontroller and incorporates the wireless capabilities of the original Pico W, including 2.4GHz 802.11n wireless LAN and Bluetooth 5.2.

This new launch cements Raspberry Pi’s commitment to making IoT development accessible for both enthusiasts and professional engineers.

Powered by the RP2350 Microcontroller

The RP2350 microcontroller, introduced in August, elevates the capabilities of its predecessor with:

• Faster cores for enhanced processing.
• Expanded memory to support larger, more complex applications.
• Optimized power consumption for energy-efficient IoT projects.
• On-chip OTP and Arm’s TrustZone for robust security.

The microcontroller’s enhanced floating-point support and programmable I/O (PIO) subsystem make it ideal for projects requiring high-performance interfacing at a low cost.

Designed for Wireless IoT Projects

The Pico 2 W’s CYW43439 modem, developed with Infineon, ensures seamless wireless connectivity with:

• 802.11n wireless LAN for stable network integration.
• Bluetooth 5.2 for flexible device pairing and control.

Support for C and MicroPython libraries simplifies development, making it an excellent choice for prototyping and scaling IoT projects. Its breadboard-friendly form factor ensures ease of use, while the forthcoming RM2 radio module provides scalability for professional applications.

A Legacy of Innovation

Reflecting on the launch, Eben Upton, CEO of Raspberry Pi, highlighted the incredible adoption of the RP2040 microcontroller since 2021. From enthusiasts to professional engineers, the platform has inspired a vast range of innovative projects. The RP2350 builds on this success, bringing more power, flexibility, and security to the Raspberry Pi ecosystem.

The Road Ahead

As Upton noted, the Pico 2 W is just the beginning of the Pico 2 series. With more announcements anticipated in early 2025, this release marks an exciting milestone for the IoT and maker communities.

Whether you’re a hobbyist or an engineer building the next big IoT solution, the Pico 2 W delivers unmatched value and performance, solidifying Raspberry Pi’s position as a leader in accessible innovation.