Qualcomm Acquires Arduino and Introduces Linux-Powered UNO Q Computer
The American semiconductor giant has officially acquired Arduino, promising to merge open-source creativity with cutting-edge chip technology.
A Strategic Move in IoT Innovation
At a press conference in Turin, Qualcomm announced the completion of its acquisition of Arduino — the company behind the world’s most popular open-source microcontroller boards. The deal marks one of the largest hardware mergers of 2025, signaling Qualcomm’s ambition to expand deeper into the Internet of Things (IoT) and embedded AI computing.
Executives from both companies also unveiled the UNO Q — a new compact computer powered by Qualcomm’s Dragonwing chip and running Debian GNU/Linux. The board combines traditional Arduino simplicity with the performance of a full Linux environment, enabling advanced robotics, automation, and AI-driven projects.
Open-Source Roots Meet Corporate Scale
Arduino co-founder Massimo Banzi said the company will “retain its open-source philosophy” while gaining access to Qualcomm’s massive engineering and fabrication resources. Qualcomm executives emphasized that Arduino will continue to operate independently, maintaining its brand, community, and educational programs.
Industry analysts view this move as an effort to capture the booming market for intelligent edge devices. By integrating AI-ready microcontrollers with Qualcomm’s chipsets, developers can create new generations of connected sensors, drones, and wearables capable of real-time learning and interaction.
Community Reaction and Future Outlook
Among the Arduino community, reactions were mixed. Some enthusiasts expressed concern that the acquisition might compromise the open-source nature of the platform. Others welcomed the potential for stronger hardware, improved documentation, and long-term corporate support.
Experts predict that the collaboration will accelerate the evolution of hybrid microcomputers that blend the accessibility of Arduino with the computational power of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon-class systems. If successful, the partnership could redefine the landscape of DIY electronics, education, and prototyping.
Editorial Team — CoinBotLab