We fully support the micro:bit V1 that was launched in 2016. If you’ve got a device that came from the BBC Make it Digital Campaign, or a micro:bit you bought in 2016 or 2017, there are 3 things you can do to get the most out of the board and use it safely with your students.

The easiest way to tell if a micro:bit is a V1 or V2 is the edge connector along the bottom of the micro:bit; a V1 is flat and a V2 is bumpy (or notched), as seen in the illustrations below.

V1 micro:bit

Bottom edge is flat

V2 micro:bit

Bottom edge is bumpy

The new V2 features included an onboard speaker and microphone, the original micro:bit V1 required you to attach an additional device, such as a speaker to produce sounds.

1. Update your firmware

To work with the latest features of our editors (Microsoft MakeCode and the new micro:bit Python Editor), like direct flashing, we’ve made an updated firmware for the micro:bit V1.

2. Check your micro:bits are in good health

Damaged micro:bits that are connected to the latest high-current USB ports on laptops can overheat. While you’re updating the firmware on your devices we suggest you hold the micro:bit by its sides, and touch the front of the micro:bit (the side with two buttons, 25 LEDs and the logo) to check it is not getting warm. If it is warm, this micro:bit has been damaged and should be discarded. Read our safety information for how to handle, use and store micro:bits.

3. Familiarise yourself with the latest resources

We have a whole host of fantastic resources for teachers on our Teach section. All our resources should work on both the micro:bit V1 and V2, unless they use the following hardware features only present on a V2:

• microphone
• touchable logo
• data logging
• integrated speaker

Any queries please do get in touch on support@microbit.org