Best of IoT — December 2025

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   Article

   Michael Lynch·25w

   My First Impressions of MeshCore Off-Grid Messaging

   MeshCore enables encrypted text messaging over long-range (LoRa) radios without cellular infrastructure, forming mesh networks where devices relay messages through each other. Testing three devices (Heltec v3, SenseCAP T-1000e, and Lilygo T-Deck+) revealed significant usability challenges: confusing onboarding, poor UI/UX design, limited range (only 5 blocks in suburban areas), and critical components being closed-source despite appearing open. While the concept appeals for emergency communication, the technology isn't yet practical for non-technical users or reliable disaster scenarios.

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   Article

   The Register·21w

   New York’s incoming mayor bans Raspberry Pi at inauguration

   New York's mayor-elect banned Raspberry Pi devices from his inauguration block party, listing them alongside explosives, weapons, and Flipper Zero devices. While the Flipper Zero has known capabilities for cloning RFID cards and manipulating wireless communications, the Raspberry Pi ban appears less justified since the single-board computers are less portable and conspicuous. Critics note the ban is futile since smartphones could perform similar malicious functions, and it unfairly tarnishes a device widely used in education and creative projects.

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   Article

   Jeff Geerling·23w

   CM0 - a new Raspberry Pi you can't buy

   The CM0 is a new Raspberry Pi Compute Module based on the Pi Zero 2 architecture, featuring castellated edges for direct PCB soldering, eMMC storage, and WiFi. Currently only available in China through EDAtec's CM0NANO development board, global distribution is unlikely due to LPDDR2 RAM shortages and supply prioritization for the Pi Zero 2 W. The module targets low-end commercial integration in products like kiosks and signage, offering a complete Linux environment in a postage stamp-sized System on Module.

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