Raspberry Pi Pico 2 Unveiled at $5 with RISC-V Integration

The Raspberry Pi Foundation has launched the Raspberry Pi Pico 2, a significant upgrade to its predecessor, now incorporating RISC-V cores alongside the existing ARM architecture. Priced at just $5, the Pico 2 targets hobbyists and professionals alike, offering improved processing power with dual Cortex-M33 cores and enhanced security features, including Arm TrustZone for Cortex-M. While the device maintains its budget-friendly appeal, the introduction of RISC-V and the enhanced architecture open new possibilities for more complex applications, from music synthesis to industrial use.

The Pico 2's design also includes expanded memory, with 264KB of SRAM and 2MB of onboard flash storage, catering to more demanding projects. Despite these upgrades, the device lacks built-in Wi-Fi, although a variant with this feature is expected later in the year. The initial supply of Pico 2 units is limited, but increased production is anticipated in the coming weeks. This launch marks Raspberry Pi’s continued commitment to providing affordable, versatile microcontrollers that cater to both DIY enthusiasts and professional developers, reinforcing its position as a leader in the maker community.