With regulatory approval pending, Qualcomm plans to integrate Arduino’s open-source ecosystem into its edge computing strategy.
Qualcomm Technologies announces to acquire Arduino, expanding its reach into the global developer community built around open-source hardware. Qualcomm says it plans to make its edge computing and AI technologies more accessible.
The first outcome of the partnership is the Arduino UNO Q board. It runs on Qualcomm’s Dragonwing QRB2210 processor and uses a dual-core setup combining Linux-based computing with real-time microcontroller control. This structure is built for edge use cases such as smart devices, automation, and robotics, where quick local processing is essential.
The deal is waiting for regulatory approval, following its recent additions of Edge Impulse and Foundries.io, showing a steady shift toward a unified edge platform that links hardware, software, and cloud tools.
The acquisition connects two different but complementary worlds. Qualcomm brings high-performance chips and AI processing, while Arduino brings a large base of developers who build and test systems for education, research, and industry.
“Joining forces with Qualcomm Technologies allows us to supercharge our commitment to accessibility and innovation,” said Fabio Violante, CEO, Arduino.
Arduino will continue supporting multiple chip makers. This acquisition will give Arduino access to Qualcomm’s technology stack and global distribution. It also gives access to 33 million active users of Arduino to Qualcomm.
“Arduino has built a vibrant global community of developers and creators. By combining their open-source ethos with Qualcomm Technologies’ portfolio of leading edge products and technologies, we’re helping enable millions of developers to create intelligent solutions faster and more efficiently” said Nakul Duggal, Group General Manager, Automotive, Industrial and Embedded IoT, Qualcomm Technologies.
UNO Q introduces support for Arduino App Lab, a new software environment that connects development across Linux, real-time operating systems, Python, and AI. It also links directly with Edge Impulse, allowing developers to train and test models for object detection, sound recognition, or anomaly monitoring without switching tools.
The acquisition marks a shift in how Qualcomm approaches developer ecosystems from chip supply to full-stack enablement. By joining with Arduino, it gains access to more than 33 million active users who work on hardware that reaches classrooms, startups, and labs worldwide.
