- The micro:bit can be used with any computer running macOS, Windows, Linux (inc. Raspberry Pi) or ChromeOS, and mobile devices running Android or iOS.
- You only need a web browser on your computer. The MakeCode and Python Editor are browser-based, so you do not need to install any additional software to use the micro:bit.
- The MakeCode editor also has a micro:bit simulator, so you don't even need a micro:bit to get started.
Hardware
There are few hardware requirements for using the micro:bit as there is no software installation required. Please contact the Foundation, if you have any concerns about your hardware setup.
- BBC micro:bit
- USB Cable (capable of both power and data transfer)
- Battery pack (for untethered/mobile use)
- Desktop/laptop computer with a USB port or
- Mobile device with Bluetooth connectivity
Operating System
- Windows 7+
- macOS 10.13+
- ChromeOS
- Linux (inc. Raspberry Pi)
Browser
Most modern browsers will work with the micro:bit. Chrome and Edge also support flashing directly from the browser using WebUSB, which means you do not need to drag and drop a .hex file onto the MICROBIT drive. As well as being a quick way to update your program on the micro:bit, using WebUSB can be used as a workaround in schools where general access to USB devices is restricted.
MakeCode (makecode.microbit.org)
The MakeCode support pages, hold up to date information regarding browser support
Python Editor (python.microbit.org)
- Edge 14+
- Internet Explorer 10+
- Chrome 22+
- Firefox 16+
- Safari 6+ Mac
Scratch (scratch.mit.edu)
Scratch requires the installation of ScratchLink to communicate with the micro:bit via Bluetooth. Mac and Windows computers need to be online and running Bluetooth 4.0+. See further information in our article on using the micro:bit with scratch