Major Sphero Edu Windows App Update

Micah Daby Updated by Micah Daby

Q: How Do I Get the New Windows Sphero Edu App?

There are two ways to access the Sphero Edu 6.3.1 release. You can access it from the Microsoft Store, or directly download the msixbundle package from our app download page. We generally recommend using the Microsoft Store when possible, as it's easier to keep the app up to date with the latest releases and hot fixes. However, some schools prefer a downloadable package depending on their deployment solutions.

Microsoft recommends using Intune with Microsoft Endpoint Manager for deployment in a school or enterprise setting. For additional deployment information and links, please visit this page.

Q: What's Different Between the 6.3.1 Windows App and Older Versions?

There are a handful of benefits to using the new 6.3.1 version of Sphero Edu on Windows. The new app is a fully native Windows app utilizing the latest development tools from Microsoft. This will ensure improved support and more frequent releases for years to come. Here are some specific differences you will notice while using 6.3.1:

Feature

6.3.1 Sphero Edu App for Windows

Older Versions of Sphero Edu App for Windows

Allows for offline usage (can program without the internet)

Yes

No (requires internet at all times)

Has guest mode and local storage of programs

Yes

No (requires an account to program and access programs at all times)

Robust classroom view for class code users

Yes

No

Accurate localization (app translations)

Yes

No

Improved connection code

Yes

No

There are a number of features that will not be present in the initial release of 6.3.1 on Windows, but are planned for later updates, including:

  • Firmware updates for all compatible robots
  • Live streaming of robot sensor data while programming, and robust historical graphs
  • 3D breakout models for main Sphero robots
  • Camera and QR code features

There are a few things that teachers and parents must do on the Sphero Edu website, as they are not supported in the 6.3.1 version of Sphero Edu. This includes the following:

  • Class set up, management, and activity assignment
  • Creation of custom activities
  • Password or profile changes

In each of the above cases, the 6.3.1 app will open a browser to complete the needed work at edu.sphero.com.

The Sphero Edu 6.3.1 Windows release fixes an existing issue that impacts Google Sign-In on older versions of the Windows app. If you are experiencing the Google Sign-In issue that's described in this support document, please update to 6.3.1.

Q: What Are The Required Specs For Sphero Edu 6.3.1?

The Sphero Edu 6.3.1 Windows release is compatible with the following:

  • Windows 10, with these versions:
    • 1809 - Build 17763
    • 1903 - Build 18362
    • 1909 - Build 18363
    • 2004 - Build 19041
    • 20H2 - Build 19042
    • 21H1 - Build 19043
    • 21H2 - Build 19044
  • Windows 11 with the following version:
    • 21H2 - Build 22000

Below is a list of Windows versions that are no longer supported with the 6.3.1 release:

  • Windows 10, with the following:
    • Version 1709 - Build 16299
    • Version 1803- Build 17134

If you have not updated to Windows 10, Version 1709 or newer, then we highly encourage you to do so.

How did we do?

Changing support for Android 5, 6, and 7 in February, 2022

Changes to Community Programs in May 2022

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