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On October 7, 2025, Qualcomm announced an agreement to acquire Arduino and introduced the Arduino UNO Q, a single-board computer that pairs a Linux-capable Arm Cortex-A53 processor with a separate Arm Cortex-M33 microcontroller. The two compute domains let the board run Linux applications while the microcontroller handles real-time control. Arduino initially said the acquisition remained subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions; its announcement page later described Arduino as part of the Qualcomm family.
What Qualcomm announced about Arduino
Qualcomm’s October 7, 2025 announcement paired two developments: an agreement to acquire Arduino and the launch of the Arduino UNO Q, alongside Arduino App Lab. The original announcement described an agreement, not a completed transaction. Arduino said closing was subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions. Arduino’s announcement page subsequently described the company as part of the Qualcomm family.
Qualcomm’s release reported that Arduino had more than 33 million active users. That is Qualcomm’s company-reported figure, not an independently verified adoption count. The release headline described the UNO Q and App Lab as enabling developers with Qualcomm Dragonwing processors.
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The UNO Q is a compact single-board computer built around two distinct processors rather than one chip expected to handle every task. A Qualcomm Dragonwing QRB2210 microprocessor (MPU) runs Debian-based Linux. A separate STMicroelectronics STM32U585 microcontroller (MCU) runs Arduino Core on Zephyr OS.
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![Arduino® UNO™ Q 4GB [ABX00173]- Hybrid Board, Qualcomm Dragonwing QRB2210 microprocessor (MPU) & STM32U585 Microcontroller(MCU), AI Vision, Voice, IoT, Robotics, Linux Debian OS, Wi-Fi 5, USB-C](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51cl4xygwGL._SL160_.jpg)
- Dual-Brain Hybrid Power: Combines the Qualcomm Dragonwing QRB2210 MPU (Quad-core Arm Cortex-A53 @ 2.0 GHz CPU, Adreno GPU, AI acceleration) and the real-time, low-power STM32U585 MCU for advanced applications like object recognition, voice commands, and motion detection.
- AI & Linux Capabilities: Unlocks AI-powered vision and sound solutions; runs Linux Debian OS for coding in Python and supports the Arduino ecosystem with libraries and Sketches; quick start with Arduino App Lab.
- Advanced Features: Equipped with 4 GB LPDDR4 RAM, 32 GB eMMC built-in storage, ideal for single-board computer (SBC) mode, running multiple simultaneous high-level processes, more complex AI or ML models, extensive logs. Dual-band Wi-Fi 5 (2.4/5 GHz), Bluetooth 5.1, and high-speed headers for vision, audio, and display peripherals.
- Seamless Expansion & Connectivity: Features the classic UNO form factor for shields compatibility, an 8x13 LED matrix, and a Qwiic connector for easy expansion with Modulino nodes; power and connect via the USB-C connector.
- Intended Use & Development: The perfect platform for prototyping robotics or IoT projects, empowering innovators with a unified development experience to mix Arduino Sketches, Python scripts, and containerized AI models in a single interface.
| Compute domain | Processor | Operating environment | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Linux-capable MPU | Qualcomm Dragonwing QRB2210, quad-core Arm Cortex-A53, up to 2.0 GHz per official documentation | Debian-based Linux | Linux applications and higher-level workloads |
| Real-time MCU | STMicroelectronics STM32U585, Arm Cortex-M33, up to 160 MHz per official documentation | Arduino Core on Zephyr OS | Arduino sketches and low-latency control tasks |
The distinction matters: Linux handles work suited to a full operating system and application environment, while the MCU is designed for direct, predictable hardware control. Qualcomm describes the arrangement as combining Linux computing with an MCU for precise, low-latency control. The launch material does not provide third-party benchmarks or hands-on test results, so the specifications explain the design but do not establish comparative performance.
Can UNO Q run Linux and control hardware in real time?
Yes, the architecture is intended to support both. The QRB2210 runs Debian-based Linux for applications, while the STM32U585 runs Arduino Core on Zephyr OS for sketches and time-sensitive control. Keeping those environments on separate processors lets a Linux workload coexist with MCU-based control rather than treating the MCU as a generic Linux coprocessor.
Rank #2
- HIGH‑PERFORMANCE AI BOARD: 4GB RAM enables advanced AI models, multitasking, and high‑performance computing for edge AI applications.
- HYBRID PROCESSING POWER: Combines Qualcomm MPU and STM32 MCU for real‑time control and AI acceleration in robotics and automation.
- 45W USB‑C POWER INCLUDED: Stable and regulated power supply ensures reliable operation during heavy workloads and peripheral usage.
- BUILT‑IN CONNECTIVITY: Wi‑Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1 enable wireless communication for smart devices and IoT ecosystems.
- IDEAL FOR ADVANCED PROJECTS: Designed for engineers and developers building scalable AI, robotics, and industrial IoT systems.
Arduino positions App Lab as a unified development environment for work spanning real-time operating systems, Linux, Python, and AI workflows. This describes the intended development workflow; it does not mean all code runs on one processor or that every AI workload has a specified performance level.
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UNO Q uses a compact UNO form factor and retains traditional UNO headers for official or custom shields. That offers existing Arduino users a familiar expansion route, but header fit alone does not establish that every shield is electrically or software compatible. Check the specific shield’s requirements and support before connecting it.
Rank #3
- Dual-Brain Hybrid Power: Combines the Qualcomm Dragonwing QRB2210 MPU (Quad-core Arm Cortex-A53 @ 2.0 GHz CPU, Adreno GPU, AI acceleration) and the real-time, low-power STM32U585 MCU for advanced applications like object recognition, voice commands, and motion detection.
- AI & Linux Capabilities: Unlocks AI-powered vision and sound solutions; runs Linux Debian OS for coding in Python and supports the Arduino ecosystem with libraries and Sketches; quick start with Arduino App Lab.
- Advanced Features: Equipped with 2 GB LPDDR4 RAM, 16 GB eMMC built-in storage, ideal to develop in PC-connected mode, running the OS, Python scripts, and basic network services (SSH) without a demanding GUI or heavy multitasking; great for lightweight AI and memory-optimized TinyML applications, needing local storage for basic OS and core libraries. Dual-band Wi-Fi 5 (2.4/5 GHz), Bluetooth 5.1, and high-speed headers for vision, audio, and display peripherals.
- Seamless Expansion & Connectivity: Features the classic UNO form factor for shields compatibility, an 8x13 LED matrix, and a Qwiic connector for easy expansion with Modulino nodes; power and connect via the USB-C connector.
- Intended Use & Development: The perfect platform for prototyping robotics or IoT projects, empowering innovators with a unified development experience to mix Arduino Sketches, Python scripts, and containerized AI models in a single interface.
Arduino’s launch post named the Arduino Store, RS Components, DigiKey, Mouser, and Macfos as order channels. That launch-time list does not establish current inventory, pricing, or availability through other marketplaces. Check the relevant seller’s current listing for present details.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
![Arduino UNO R4 WiFi [ABX00087] - Renesas RA4M1 + ESP32-S3, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C, CAN, 12-bit DAC, OP AMP, Qwiic Connector, 12x8 LED Matrix for Advanced IoT & Embedded Projects](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/416S910MpBL._SL160_.jpg)
- Dual-Core Processing with Renesas RA4M1 and ESP32-S3: The Arduino UNO R4 WiFi combines the Renesas RA4M1 microcontroller (ARM Cortex-M4) and the ESP32-S3 Wi-Fi/Bluetooth chip, delivering powerful dual-core processing capabilities. This combination offers flexibility for a wide range of projects, from high-speed communications and wireless control to real-time data processing and edge AI applications.
- Comprehensive Wireless Connectivity: Equipped with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0, the UNO R4 WiFi ensures robust wireless communication for IoT projects, remote sensors, smart devices, and wireless control applications. Whether connecting to the cloud, other devices, or local networks, the board offers stable and high-speed wireless connectivity for seamless operation.
- Modern USB-C, CAN, & Qwiic Connector: The USB-C port enables efficient power delivery and fast programming, improving ease of use compared to traditional USB connections. The Controller Area Network (CAN) support allows for reliable, real-time communication in industrial, automotive, or robotic systems. Additionally, the Qwiic Connector makes it easy to add I2C sensors and peripherals, simplifying the connection process and reducing the need for complex wiring.
- High-Precision 12-bit DAC & OP-AMP: For projects that require high-quality analog output, the 12-bit DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) and integrated operational amplifier (OP-AMP) provide precise analog signal generation and amplification. This feature is ideal for audio projects, sensor interfacing, or applications where analog signal control and processing are necessary.
- Integrated 12x8 LED Matrix: The UNO R4 WiFi includes a built-in 12x8 LED Matrix, enabling users to display dynamic visuals, messages, or real-time data on the board itself. This makes it perfect for projects that require immediate visual feedback, such as status indicators, event displays, or interactive user interfaces.
What to consider before choosing UNO Q
- Workload: The split architecture is relevant if a project needs both a Linux application environment and separate MCU-based control.
- Development workflow: Consider whether App Lab’s integrated approach across sketches, Linux, Python, and AI matches how you intend to build and maintain a project.
- Expansion: UNO headers provide a familiar physical interface, but verify the electrical and software requirements of each shield.
- Purchase details: Confirm current price and stock directly with a listed seller; the launch announcement is not a current availability guarantee.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
