Linux Embedded Systems Are Running the Internet of Things

Lucas and Luna dive into the quiet takeover of Linux in embedded systems — from smart thermostats to industrial controllers. They focus on the case of the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 powering a million-plus digital signage units at a major European retailer, and why Yocto Project is the build system behind it. They break down the economics: how a $35 Linux module replaces a $200 proprietary RTOS board, and why real-time patches are becoming standard. They also discuss the challenge of long-term support — how do you patch a vending machine that ships with kernel 5.10 and can't be easily updated? The conversation touches on Zephyr and the tension between full Linux and microkernel alternatives. Specific numbers, real hardware, and a concrete deployment make this a grounded look at the embedded Linux landscape as of mid-2026. #Linux #EmbeddedLinux #InternetOfThings #RaspberryPi #YoctoProject #ComputeModule #DigitalSignage #RealTimeLinux #ZephyrRTOS #IndustrialIoT #LongTermSupport #KernelPatches #OpenSource #Technology #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #LucasAndLuna #TheLinuxPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo