SparkFun and Digi International Announce Collaboration with the Release of XBee Development Tools to Support Cellular IoT from Sensor to Cloud
- None.
- None.
Insights
The strategic partnership between SparkFun and Digi International is indicative of the growing intersection between IoT (Internet of Things) development and rapid prototyping tools. By aligning SparkFun's Qwiic Connect Ecosystem with Digi's XBee modules, the collaboration aims to streamline the process for OEMs and developers in embedding cellular IoT capabilities into their projects. This is particularly relevant as the IoT market is expected to reach $1.1 trillion by 2026, according to Fortune Business Insights.
The introduction of new development boards and MicroPython libraries suggests a focus on reducing the time-to-market for IoT solutions, which is a critical factor for businesses in maintaining competitive advantage. The ability to gather data at the edge with smart sensors is a significant development, as edge computing reduces latency and allows for real-time data processing, which is crucial in applications such as autonomous vehicles, smart cities and industrial automation.
For stakeholders, the short-term benefits include access to a more integrated and user-friendly suite of tools for IoT development. In the long-term, this partnership could establish SparkFun and Digi International as thought leaders in the embedded developer space, potentially increasing their market share and influencing future IoT standards.
The announcement of SparkFun becoming a Value-Added Reseller (VAR) for Digi International carries potential financial implications for both companies. For SparkFun, the ability to sell pre-certified, programmable XBee modules as standalone products could open up new revenue streams. Pre-certification reduces regulatory hurdles, which can be a significant barrier to entry for many developers and OEMs, thus potentially increasing the customer base.
Digi International may benefit from expanded market penetration through SparkFun's established distribution network within the hobbyist and professional R&D sectors. The focus on cellular IoT applications, a subset of the IoT market that is rapidly growing due to the expansion of 5G networks, could position both companies favorably in a high-growth industry.
Investors should monitor the adoption rates of the new development boards and the XBee Sensor Lab demonstrations. Successful integration of these products into mainstream IoT projects could lead to upward trends in stock performance for both SparkFun and Digi International.
This collaboration highlights the importance of modular design and interoperability in the tech industry, particularly within IoT development. By leveraging SparkFun's Qwiic ecosystem, which simplifies hardware connections with a plug-and-play interface and Digi's XBee modules known for their ease of use and reliability, the partnership is poised to reduce technical barriers for developers.
Furthermore, the commitment to future content collaborations, such as projects and tutorials, underscores the educational aspect of the partnership. This approach not only assists developers in creating IoT solutions but also fosters a community around the technology, which can lead to innovation and the development of industry best practices.
The emphasis on MicroPython libraries is noteworthy as Python is one of the most popular programming languages for IoT due to its simplicity and versatility. Providing these libraries can empower developers to create more sophisticated IoT applications with less effort, potentially accelerating the growth of the IoT ecosystem.
As a Digi International Value-Added Reseller (VAR) for OEMs, SparkFun brings the next generation of Digi XBee® modules to market with a line of developer boards.
- SparkFun XBee Development Board
- SparkFun XBee Explorer USB-C
- SparkFun XBee Explorer Regulated
- SparkFun XBee Development Board Arduino Shield
To support multiple applications and extensibility, SparkFun has also announced the release of MicroPython libraries for SparkFun's line of Qwiic Sensors. This enables the sensors to interact with the Digi XBee Sensor Lab to create a system of smart sensors that gather data at the edge. Those attending CES will be treated to a live demo of the XBee Sensor Lab, which will use a combination of Qwiic sensors, XBee modules, and SparkFun development boards to demonstrate edge technology.
In addition to its line of development boards, SparkFun will sell XBee modules as standalone products that are pre-certified, programmable, and provide over-the-air updates. And, with both companies dedicated to top-notch thought leadership around emerging technologies in the embedded developer space, this collaboration also signifies the promise of future content collaborations between the two companies — including projects and tutorials that will inspire new cellular IoT applications.
"We're thrilled to collaborate with SparkFun," said Bob Blumenscheid, Senior Product Marketing Manager at Digi International. "We're so well aligned in our visions when it comes to supporting developers with excellent building blocks that simplify the complexity of IoT projects and support rapid time-to-market. By combining pre-certified modules with code libraries and tools for configuration, testing, deployment and remote management, we can give developers the leg up they need to succeed."
"We are honored to be a key VAR for Digi International's OEM team. Together we are supporting the development of cellular IoT solutions from prototype to production," said Glenn Samala, SparkFun CEO. "Between SparkFun's development tools and Digi XBee modules, we believe we can significantly impact users from enthusiasts to professionals and inspire creative new applications."
About SparkFun Electronics
Since 2003, SparkFun has been helping turn ideas into reality. We believe new technology makes great ideas happen. No matter your vision, our open-source tools, documentation, and online tutorials make emerging technology easy to use, and the road to a finished project shorter.
About Digi International
Digi International (NASDAQ: DGII) is a leading global provider of IoT connectivity products, services, and solutions. It helps companies create next-generation connected products and deploy and manage critical communications infrastructures in demanding environments with high levels of security and reliability. Founded in 1985, Digi has helped customers connect more than 100 million things and counting. For more information, visit www.digi.com.
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sparkfun-and-digi-international-announce-collaboration-with-the-release-of-xbee-development-tools-to-support-cellular-iot-from-sensor-to-cloud-302029231.html
SOURCE SparkFun Electronics
FAQ
What is the collaboration between SparkFun and Digi International about?
What new products has SparkFun released as part of the collaboration?
What does the collaboration signify for the future?
