The latest release of MicroPythonOS 0.18.0 is now available, offering a project focused on developing an operating system for microcontrollers like the ESP32. This project is written using the MicroPython framework and comes equipped with a graphical interface inspired by Android and iOS. MicroPythonOS supports controls through touch screens or navigation buttons, catering to applications in the Internet of Things (IoT) sector, home automation control systems, interactive panels, robots, and smart wearable devices with screen gesture control. It also serves as a tool to quickly prototype new devices, written in a mix of C and Python code, and distributed under the MIT license.
The core functionalities of MicroPythonOS include initializing and interacting with hardware, mounting drives, multitasking, and managing user interfaces. Additionally, functions such as WiFi setup and application updates are included as separate applications. The system provides essential features like an application menu, a configurator, a WiFi setup widget, and an application installation and update program.
MicroPythonOS suggests using the MicroPython language and a subset of Python libraries for developing applications. External applications can be installed from the centralized App Store catalog, enabling access to programs like an image viewer and a camera application. Updates are delivered over-the-air (OTA) and the system supports WiFi, Bluetooth, audio codecs, IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) sensors, touch screens, and cameras.
Within the latest version, some notable changes include added support for the Waveshare ESP32-S3-Touch-LCD-3.5 with a built-in 3.5-inch screen and ES8311 audio codec. The AppStore now includes a “Scan QR” button for scanning program identifiers and displaying detailed information. The camera program can now recognize links to applications through QR codes. Additional features in the update include the ability to bind URL handlers to applications in AppManager, improved support for sound systems connected via I2S bus in the music player, and the implementation of emoji code caching in the font manager.