The field of embedded systems is constantly evolving, with new microprocessors and microcontrollers being released regularly. Here are some of the latest and popular microprocessors and microcontrollers used in various projects as of 2024:

Microcontrollers

1. ESP32-S3 (Espressif Systems)
   • Features: Dual-core LX7, Wi-Fi 4, Bluetooth 5.0, AI acceleration, USB OTG, ample GPIOs.
   • Applications: IoT devices, wearables, smart home applications, AIoT projects.
2. STM32H7 (STMicroelectronics)
   • Features: ARM Cortex-M7 at 480 MHz, high-performance, rich peripheral set, advanced analog features.
   • Applications: Industrial automation, motor control, consumer electronics, medical devices.
3. nRF5340 (Nordic Semiconductor)
   • Features: Dual ARM Cortex-M33, Bluetooth 5.2, advanced security features, multiple interfaces.
   • Applications: Advanced IoT applications, wearables, healthcare devices, smart home products.
4. PIC32MZ (Microchip Technology)
   • Features: 32-bit MIPS core, high-performance, rich set of peripherals, good power efficiency.
   • Applications: Industrial control, automotive, consumer electronics, audio processing.
5. RP2040 (Raspberry Pi Foundation)
   • Features: Dual ARM Cortex-M0+ at 133 MHz, rich I/O options, cost-effective, programmable I/O.
   • Applications: Educational projects, hobbyist electronics, prototyping, small-scale industrial applications.

Microprocessors

1. NXP i.MX 8M Plus
   • Features: Quad-core ARM Cortex-A53, integrated AI/ML accelerator, 1080p video encoding/decoding, rich I/O.
   • Applications: Multimedia applications, AI/ML edge processing, smart home and industrial automation.
2. Texas Instruments AM62x
   • Features: ARM Cortex-A53 cores, PowerVR GPU, extensive connectivity options, industrial-grade features.
   • Applications: Human-machine interfaces (HMIs), industrial control, automotive infotainment.
3. Intel Atom x6000E Series
   • Features: Low power, high-performance, extensive I/O, support for real-time computing.
   • Applications: Industrial IoT, edge computing, smart retail, robotics.
4. Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+
   • Features: Octa-core ARM Cortex-A77, powerful Adreno GPU, 5G support, advanced AI capabilities.
   • Applications: High-end smartphones, tablets, augmented/virtual reality (AR/VR), advanced AI applications.
5. Renesas RZ/G2
   • Features: Multiple ARM Cortex-A53/A57 cores, integrated GPU, high-bandwidth interfaces.
   • Applications: Industrial automation, embedded vision, smart city infrastructure, advanced HMI systems.

Trends and Considerations

• AI and Machine Learning: Many new microcontrollers and microprocessors now include dedicated AI/ML accelerators to handle edge processing for AI applications.
• Connectivity: Enhanced connectivity options like Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and 5G are becoming more common, facilitating advanced IoT applications.
• Low Power Consumption: There is a strong focus on reducing power consumption to extend battery life for portable and IoT devices.
• Security: Enhanced security features, including hardware encryption and secure boot, are critical in modern embedded systems to protect data and ensure device integrity.

These components are used across various industries, including consumer electronics, automotive, industrial automation, healthcare, and more, reflecting the diverse applications and rapid advancement in embedded systems technology.