The ArcGIS Runtime SDK will start supporting development for embedded Linux devices on the Qt platform. This will allow ArcGIS developers to build for new and modern computing platforms aside from desktops and mobile devices. It also establishes and positions ArcGIS into the Internet of Things (IoT) space.

This new software developer kit (SDK) support for ARM-embedded Linux systems – the chipsets that run on small, embedded devices that make up the backbone of IoT systems – will bring the capabilities of ArcGIS to many different devices.

For example, adding location intelligence to sensors streaming telemetry data to small devices on trucks as they travel gives a geographic context to real-time data collection and machine learning. This helps logistics companies keep track of things like deliveries and road incidents.

Qt allows users to easily create powerful and connected devices that are capable of running IoT solutions across millions of devices for use in a number of industries such as facility and factory automation, connected vehicles, and health care.

Euan Cameron, Esri Chief Technology Officer, Runtime and Applications Group said, “Qt has been a very valuable business partner to Esri. . .and Qt’s strength has always been its support for multiple computing architectures. This is the next logical step in our relationships as we move toward embedded device development.” Juhapekka Niemi, Executive Vice President at The Qt Company said, “the Esri ArcGIS Runtime SDK has been a valuable tool for many Qt users looking to build native mapping apps. We look forward to expanding our partnership to include the exponentially expanding market of embedded devices.”