We are very proud to release Arduino IDE 1.6.6 and updated cores for all supported platforms (AVR 1.6.9, SAM 1.6.5, SAMD 1.6.2)
This update brings an impressive 723 closed issues and 147 pull requests merged.
Most intriguing features are:
- Long-awaited new arduino-builder: this is a pure command-line tool which takes care of mangling the code, resolving library dependencies and setting up the compilation units. It can also be used as a standalone program in a continuous-integration environment
- Pluggable USB core: your Arduino can finally act as a lot of different USB devices without any need to change the core, thanks to the new modular architecture. Libraries based on the new subsystem are already being developed!
- Serial plotter: you can now plot your data in realtime, as easy as writing Serial.println(analogRead(A0)) inside your loop
A Serial Plotter function has been added, allowing you to natively graph serial data from your Arduino to your computer in real time. If you’re tired of seeing your Arduino’s analog sensor input data pour onto your screen like The Matrix, this looks like a prettier way to visualize what’s going on.
A Pluggable USB core (and Pluggable HID core) allows users to create low level libraries that allow your board to take advantage of the MIDI, HID, or Mass Storage behaviors associated with computer USB peripherals. In short, your Arduino’s USB connection can more easily mimic the behavior of a USB-connected MIDI instrument, mouse, computer keyboard, or storage device.
Additionaly:
- New goodies for library developers, like unlocked examples while developing and optional linkage into an archive
- ArduinoISP example has been improved a lot and now you can flash your AVR chip using ANY other board (including third-party ones )
- Both Libraries and Boards managers notify if a library/core can be updated with a simple popup – no more outdated code floating around!
- A LOT of bug fixes, adjustments, documentation refinement thanks to our tireless users and contributors. The complete list of fixes and credits is available here.
You can read more about the IDE 1.6.6 update on the Arduino.cc blog, as well as a full list of revisions on GitHub.
