CircuitPython 6.0.0 Beta Launches with ESP32-S2 Support, New Networking API, and More
First "relatively stable" beta release comes after three months of alpha testing.
The first beta for CircuitPython's 6.0.0 release, described as "relatively stable," is now available — bringing support for additional development boards, new features, and bug fixes.
The first CircuitPython 6.0.0 alpha was released earlier this year, bringing new lower-power sleep support and initial compatibility with Espressif's latest ESP32-S2 microcontrollers. Since then, the MicroPython port has been working through several alphas to reach its first beta release — described by its developers as "relatively stable," though the precise level of stability and feature-completeness will depend on which device port you're using.
"The most notable additions since 5.3.x are basic lower power support when in time.sleep(), initial ESP32-S2 support, including Wi-Fi, and and _bleio HCI support for ESP32 co-processors," maintainer Dan Halbert writes in the project's release notes. "The lower power work changed time keeping and may have introduced bugs. Please use 5.3.x if you need a stable version of CircuitPython."
"As of this release, atmel-samd, nrf, and stm for the F4 family are stable. cxd56, esp32s2, and stm for other chip families are being actively improved but may be missing functionality and have bugs. litex and mimxrt10xx are in an alpha state and will have bugs and missing functionality."
As with all CircuitPython releases, downloads are available from the official website upon selection of the development board you're looking to use. The stable download, CircuitPython 5.3.1 at the time of writing, can be found at the top-right of each board's page; the latest available beta, CircuitPython 6.0.0 Beta 0, is located just below.
More details on the changes since CircuitPython 6.0.0's last alpha, including native Wi-Fi connectivity on the ESP32-S2 and a revamped network API, can be found on the GitHub release page.