Raspberry Pi 3 B+ features improves processor and networking

The Raspberry Pi Foundation has released an updated version of the Raspberry Pi 3, the Raspberry Pi 3 B+, featuring a faster processor and updated networking capabilities.

The new device, which was launched today, is a mid-generation upgrade to the foundation's previous board. It is intended to act as refinement of the Pi 3 B, rather than a full-blown successor, according to the foundation.

"Like the original Raspberry Pi 1 Model B+, this is an attention-to-detail spin of the preceding product, driven by looking at what people have been doing in the wild," said creator Eben Upton.

"We've improved the wired and wireless connectivity, squeezed a bit more clock frequency out (largely through better power integrity), tweaked the thermal performance, and added a Power over Ethernet option. Individually these are all nice features to have, but I've been surprised at how well they complement each other: the whole feels like more than the sum of the parts."

The launch may come as a surprise to many; the Raspberry Pi 3 first debuted just over two years ago, and Upton told IT Pro last year that the product had a three-year lifecycle, indicating that we wouldn't see a new Pi until around 2019. The new model, however, will remain in production until at least 2023, according to the foundation.

One update that may prove to be the most significant for many Raspberry Pi customers is that the device now includes an RF shield, which allows the new board to claim FCC modular conformance. "This means that people building products around Pi can go through a much-abbreviated conformance testing process," Upton said.

The new board is available now, and will retail at the same $35 price point as all previous iterations of the Raspberry Pi B.