Experiential Robotics Platform (XRP) Gets Major Upgrade: Moves Out of Beta Phase

BOULDER, Colo., March 14th, 2025 – The XRP Consortium releases the Experiential Robotics Platform, a comprehensive robotics ecosystem changing the way technical concepts are taught to a variety of ages and skill levels. Built on the pillars of a robust hardware kit, programming environment, online modules and projects, and a technical forum, XRP builds the foundation for innovative thinking, science, engineering, and problem solving for the next generation of tech leaders, engineers, and entrepreneurs. 

"We are immensely grateful to be a part of the XRP community, which embodies innovation, collaboration, and a shared vision for a brighter future," said Glenn Samala, CEO of SparkFun. "At SparkFun, we are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs, engineers, and leaders. Our commitment to education and STEM aligns perfectly with the principles of the XRP Consortium, and we are excited to continue to manufacture, further innovate, and scale XRP." 

The beta version of XRP has been adopted worldwide by thousands of users, the upgraded platform has integrated user feedback and includes everything needed to build and program a robot to perform beginning through advanced tasks progressing from fundamental robotics to driving, line following, using sensors, using a robotic arm, and integrating robotic autonomy, with the promise of future expansion kits, sensors, and projects forthcoming. Improvements and upgrades to the platform include:

• Streamlined User Experience: The integration of the hardware kit, online modules, programming environment, and technical forum has been streamlined for improved overall user experience.
• Enhanced Processing & Memory: The new XRP Control Board features the RP2350B dual-core processor from Raspberry Pi, providing significantly faster performance and expanded memory.
• Expanded Connectivity & Expansion: Increased GPIO pins, expansion headers compatible with Pico add-on boards, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, and additional Qwiic connectors significantly enhance versatility.
• Advanced Motor and Servo Control: New motor drivers with current measurement enable precise torque control, and the number of servo connectors has been doubled to four.
• Improved Controller User Interface: The control board features a more accessible power switch and button cluster, a modern USB-C connector, a low-voltage indicator, and an RGB LED for user feedback. The design is fully open-source (KiCad).
• Optimized and Enhanced Plastics: The plastic components are optimized for 3D printing, reducing the need for support material and improving durability. The battery holder has been redesigned for secure retention and ease of use. The designs are open-source (Onshape). 3D Printing for the full XRP kit is done by 3D Printing Nerd.

The XRP platform can be used in schools, after-school programs, summer camps, and corporate community initiatives. Additionally, FIRSTⓇ has recognized XRP as a foundational robotics experience, providing a solid Bridge to FIRST.

Information about the kit, including documentation and pricing, can be found on the product page at https://www.sparkfun.com/experiential-robotics-platform-xrp-kit.html.

About Contributing Partners: 

DEKA Research and Development
Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) 
Worcester Polytechnic Institute Robotics Library (WPILib)
SparkFun Electronics 
Raspberry Pi Ltd.  
STMicroelectronics  
DigiKey  
Dagu Robotics 
3D Printing Nerd
Cornell Systems Engineering