Raspberry Pi Radio Module 2 Launches: A $4 WiFi & Bluetooth Solution for Embedded Systems

 

The Raspberry Pi Radio Module 2 is now available for $4, offering standalone WiFi & Bluetooth connectivity for RP2040/RP2050 microcontrollers. Discover specs, use cases, and where to buy this low-cost wireless solution for IoT and embedded projects.

Introducing the Raspberry Pi Radio Module 2

Raspberry Pi has unveiled its first standalone wireless module, the Radio Module 2, designed for developers needing reliable WiFi and Bluetooth without integrated solutions. 

At just $4, this module leverages the Infineon CYW43439 chip—the same hardware used in the Raspberry Pi Pico W and Pico 2 W—ensuring seamless compatibility with existing RP2040/RP2050-based projects.

Why does this matter?

• Cost-effective wireless expansion for custom PCB designs

• Optimized for IoT and embedded systems requiring Bluetooth/WiFi

• Simplified integration with Raspberry Pi’s microcontroller ecosystem

Key Features & Technical Specifications

The Raspberry Pi Radio Module 2 is engineered for low-power, high-performance wireless communication:

✅ Chipset: Infineon CYW43439 (Dual-band 2.4GHz WiFi 4 & Bluetooth 5.2)

✅ Compatibility: Works with RP2040 & RP2050 microcontrollers

✅ Price: $4 USD (competitive vs. alternatives like ESP32 modules)

✅ Use Cases: IoT sensors, robotics, smart home devices, industrial automation

Who Should Consider This Module?

• Embedded engineers needing a drop-in wireless solution

• Hobbyists building custom WiFi/Bluetooth-enabled devices

• Startups prototyping low-cost connected hardware

Market Impact & Competitive Edge

Compared to ESP8266/ESP32 modules (typically $5–$10), the Raspberry Pi Radio Module 2 offers:

✔ Better software support (Raspberry Pi’s SDK & community)

✔ Lower power consumption for battery-operated devices

✔ Direct compatibility with Pi Pico projects

Industry Insight:

“This module fills a gap for developers who want Raspberry Pi’s reliability without designing custom RF circuits.” — Embedded Computing Magazine

 For technical documentation, visit:

📄 Raspberry Pi Documentation Hub

FAQs 

Q: What’s the range of the Raspberry Pi Radio Module 2?

A: Expect ~100m (WiFi) and ~50m (Bluetooth) in open spaces—typical for 2.4GHz modules.

Q: Does it support Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)?

A: Yes! The CYW43439 supports Bluetooth 5.2 with BLE for energy-efficient applications.

Q: Can I use this with non-Raspberry Pi boards?

A: Technically yes, but full driver support is optimized for RP2040/RP2050.