MakeCode for micro:bit 2025 Updates

A Big Win for Accessibility, AI Education, and Forward Education Tools

The 2025 update to MakeCode for micro:bit brings powerful new features that will shape how coding, physical computing, and AI are taught and used in classrooms around the world. With major improvements in accessibility, built-in AI support, and enhanced simulation tools, block-based coding is now more inclusive and interactive than ever.

Whether you're working with students in elementary school, high school, or after-school programs, here are some new and exciting features of Makecode for micro:bit.

👉 Read the full MakeCode 2025 update

🔑 Keyboard-Only Coding = Full Accessibility

The MakeCode editor is now fully navigable using only a keyboard—breaking down barriers for students with motor challenges or those who prefer keyboard-first workflows.

What’s new:

Use Tab, Ctrl+B, and arrow keys to build and navigate blocks
Select, move, and delete blocks—all without a mouse
A new Help Panel guides students through each step

This is a huge leap forward for inclusive computer science education.

📊 Evaluation Tool: A Game-Changer for Formative Assessment

MakeCode’s new Evaluation Tool allows educators to quickly assess student code—without needing to run every project individually. This is especially useful in busy classrooms, where time is limited but understanding student progress is essential.

What’s new:

Run quick code checks to evaluate logic and structure
Spot common errors or missing blocks instantly
Give formative feedback with less manual review

This streamlines grading and supports real-time insights into student thinking. Whether you're teaching a large group or running a small club, this tool helps you focus on what students are learning, not just what they’ve built.

🎨 Themes: More Control for Students and Classrooms

The updated MakeCode editor now supports themes, allowing users to switch between light, dark, and high-contrast modes. While this may seem like a small change, it has a big impact on accessibility and usability—especially for younger learners or those with visual sensitivities.

Key features:

Choose between Light, Dark, and High-Contrast modes
Improved readability in various lighting environments
Supports more personalized, comfortable learning

This visual flexibility means that every student can find a setup that works best for them, whether they’re coding on a projector in class or on a tablet at home.

🕹️ CodeCTRL = Now Natively Supported in MakeCode

One of the most exciting updates: native support for display shields—including Forward Education’s CodeCTRL.

CodeCTRL is our micro:bit-compatible gamepad with a full-color screen, designed to bring physical computing to life. Now it’s recognized directly in the MakeCode simulator.

What this means:

Simulate screen-based projects like games and dashboards
Use CodeCTRL as a visual output tool for intro coding and STEAM activities
Enable more engaging projects—even without a full computer or monitor

This is a huge win for after-school programs, tech camps, and classrooms with limited equipment.

🤖 AI in the Classroom: Error Help + CreateAI Projects

MakeCode now brings AI-powered learning directly into the coding experience.

🧠 Explain with AI

Students can click an "Explain" button to get plain-language help with coding errors. This boosts student confidence, supports self-led learning, and builds persistence in problem-solving.

🌟 CreateAI for micro:bit

Launched in 2024, CreateAI lets students train their micro:bit to recognize movement, gestures, and more. When paired with tools like CodeCTRL, this makes real-world AI projects possible—even at the beginner level.

From gesture-controlled games to activity tracking, AI just got a lot more approachable for young coders.