Open Roberta Lab vs ROBO Pro Coding

Open Roberta Lab is a free online programming environment for learning with robots and microcontrollers. Its NEPO language uses graphical blocks assembled by drag and drop. The Lab supports hardware including Arduino boards, Calliope mini, LEGO Mindstorms EV3, micro:bit, NAO, LEGO SPIKE Prime and many other listed systems. Open Roberta Sim provides virtual robots for users without physical equipment. An integration also lets NEPO programs create and use artificial neural networks. The service runs in a standard browser on a PC, Mac or tablet without installation, and iOS and Android apps are listed. Programming works without an account; an account saves programs and settings, while sharing or gallery publication requires a verified email account. The site is hosted on Fraunhofer IAIS servers in Germany, with personal data kept within the EU. Visitor IP addresses are deleted from server logs after 30 days. The initiative targets children, young people, trainees and employees exploring STEM.

ROBO Pro Coding is a free programming environment for fischertechnik toys and schools. Learners can program graphically or with Python, and choose beginner, advanced or expert learning levels. The app provides example programs and supports the TXT 4.0 controller, as well as RX and BT Smart controllers according to its release notes. Programs can be kept locally or in the cloud, where they can be versioned and shared. An interface test helps users check actuators and sensors. The TXT 4.0 connects to computers and mobile devices through Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and USB. Published documentation includes blocks for voice control and Cloud/MQTT communication. The manufacturer describes Python 3 support with TXT 4.0 and links to app documentation and downloads for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS and Android. The older TXT controller is not supported by this app and uses ROBO Pro for Windows instead. The manufacturer also offers customer support for questions and problems.