Raspberry Pi 2 incorporates the Broadcom BCM2836 application processor, containing a powerful ARM Cortex-A7 quad-core CPU running at 800MHz. This new processor makes the Raspberry Pi 2 more than six times more powerful than the first generation Raspberry Pi Model B+. The board layout, multimedia subsystem and peripherals remain fully compatible with the Raspberry Pi Model B+, including the use of the extensive 40-pin GPIO (General Purpose Input Output) connector, four USB ports and an efficient switching power supply.
The increased computing power and memory capacity of the Raspberry Pi 2 will bring benefits to hobbyists, hackers and home developers enabling them to develop more powerful applications that will run faster. In addition, OEMs will also be able to benefit from the new board's greater processing capacity as well as the Raspberry Pi platform's record of reliability and robustness. Those involved in educating the next generation of young programmers will also take notice of this highly capable new board.