BBC Micro bit computer now available commercially for £13

The BBC Micro Bit, which is a tiny computing device invented to get children coding, is going to go on sale to the public. Already, the Micro Bit is being delivered free of charge to one million Year 7 children in schools across the country.

It will now also be available to buy from various project partners for £12.99; commercial availability of the Micro Bit results from the signing of a licensing deal with the device's manufacturer, element 14.

Retailers including Technology Will Save Us, Microsoft and Sciencescope will offer singular devices.

The BBC began delivering Micro Bit computers to Year 7 students across the UK in March after some unforeseen delays. Around 80 percent of schools have received theirs to date and pre-orders opened on May 31st 2016 at element 14, with the first deliveries expected in July.

Although a standard Micro Bit costs £12.00, a starter bundle with battery pack, USB cable and some introductory activities costs £15; 10 pack orders are available for a reduced price of £140.

What is the Micro Bit?

The Micro Bit is small microcomputer with an LED array, sensors, programmable buttons, some I/O rings and Bluetooth connectivity.

The Micro Bit was developed by the BBC and partners including Samsung, ARM and Microsoft. It was originally intended to introduce children to the basics of coding and computing. The popularity of the Raspberry Pi boards demonstrates that there is a definite market for cheap hardware for the home and the plan was to make Micro Bits more widely available.

What do you think about the Micro Bit? Is it a good thing to get our children coding from early ages? Or should it be something that is taught in schools when they are a little older? Would you be interested in ordering a Micro Bit for your home environment to encourage your kids to code?

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Image Source: Courtesy BBC