Free Wili 2: an open-source multitool with dual RP2350 chips, FPGA and wide radio support

# What the Free Wili 2 is

The Free Wili 2 is a compact, open‑source handheld described as an electronics multitool for hardware hackers, pentesters and embedded developers. It pairs two RP2350 microcontrollers with FPGA capability and a collection of radios and sensors in a pocketable device with a 3.5‑inch capacitive touchscreen and physical controls.

# Core hardware and radios

The device uses dual RP2350 processors and includes FPGA support to handle timing‑sensitive or custom logic tasks. Radio and proximity capabilities cover a broad set of protocols: Wi‑Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), Bluetooth Low Energy, Zigbee and Thread, Sub‑GHz radios and LoRa with dynamic antenna switching. For short‑range interactions it includes NFC and 125 kHz RFID with internal antennas, and infrared (IR) for remote controls.

# Inputs, outputs and expandability

# Sensors, audio and physical UI

Onboard sensors include a 9‑DOF IMU with magnetometer for motion and orientation, ambient light, temperature and humidity sensors, and a 4‑microphone phased array for beamforming and sound localization. A 3.5 mm audio jack is available for external input or output.

The front panel pairs the touchscreen with a D‑pad, backlit buttons and a small keyboard for navigation and control.

# Power management and battery

A 3,000 mAh battery is managed by an ultra‑low‑power microcontroller distributed across 17 power zones. The design supports dynamic power switching and USB‑aware charging to help extend runtime during field work.

# Software and development options

Firmware ships preloaded and the platform supports several development paths. Users can write code in Rust and C++, and use scripting frameworks described as rThon (Python‑like) and WiliBlocks. The system also exposes a GUI option for configuration and PC monitoring and offers USB host support for keyboards, mice and joysticks.

# Use cases and practical scope

The Free Wili 2 targets a mix of tasks: wireless experimentation and protocol testing, RFID and NFC work, LoRa mesh networking, robotics or automation projects using the IMU and environmental sensors, and hardware prototyping through its I/O and Orca modules. The programmable power supply and analog handling expand its role as a portable bench tool for embedded development and security testing.

# Availability and positioning

Units are available to pre‑order at a listed price of $400 for a Founder Edition, with shipping expected in Q4 2026. The device is presented as an open‑hardware alternative for people who want more radio and development flexibility than single‑purpose tools.

# Practical limitations to check before buying

The overview lists extensive capabilities but buyers should confirm which radios and add‑ons ship with their unit, exact FPGA features and toolchain maturity, community support for libraries and examples, and certification or regulatory details for radios in target markets.