While reviewing the [MicroPython v1.28 changelog](https://github.com/micropython/micropython/releases/tag/v1.28.0), I discovered a board from WeAct Studio utilizing ST’s STM32U5 Cortex-M33 microcontroller: the WeAct STM32U585CIU6 Mini Core board (WEACTSTUDIO_MINI_STM32U585 in MicroPython code).
This caught my interest as I had previously covered the initial [STM32U5 MCU release in 2021](https://www.cnx-software.com/2021/02/27/stm32u5-cortex-m33-mcu-gets-more-performance-2d-graphics-accelerator-and-advanced-security/), and followed up with [enhanced STM32U5 SKUs featuring NeoChrom 2.5D GPU and up to 4MB flash in 2023](https://www.cnx-software.com/2023/02/22/stmicro-adds-stm32u5-cortex-m33-mcus-with-neochrom-2-5d-gpu-128kb-to-4mb-flash-nist-certification/). However, we hadn’t covered a third-party board based on an STM32U5 MCU, except for the [Arduino UNO Q SBC](https://www.cnx-software.com/2026/01/21/arduino-uno-q-4gb-board-with-4gb-ram-32gb-storage-available-59/) running Linux on a Qualcomm QRB2210 MPU and using an STM32U585 for real-time and I/O control. The WeAct STM32U585CIU6 Core Mini introduces a low-cost, standalone STM32U5 MCU board.
WeAct STM32U585CIU6 Core Mini specifications:
– Microcontroller – ST [STM32U585CIU6](https://www.st.com/en/microcontrollers-microprocessors/stm32u585ci.html)
– Core – Arm Cortex-M33 Armv8-M core clocked at up to 160 MHz with FPU, Arm TrustZone
– Memory – 768 KB RAM
– Flash – 2048 KB flash
– GPU – Chrom-ART accelerator (DMA2D) for 2D graphics
– Package – UFQFPN48 (7 x 7 mm)
– Storage – Footprint for external flash (W25QxxJVSSIQ)
– USB – 1x USB Type-C port for power and programming
– Expansion – 2x 20-pin headers with GPIO, 5V, 3.3V, and GND
– Debugging – 4-pin SWD debug header
– Miscellaneous
– Boot, Reset, and User buttons
– Power and User (C13) LED
– Power Supply – 5V via USB-C port
– Dimensions – 52.8 x 20.8 mm
The board isn’t exactly new and WeAct released the PDF schematics, 3D files, the MCU datasheet, and some code samples [on GitHub](https://github.com/WeActStudio/WeActStudio.STM32U585Cx_CoreBoard/tree/master) in 2024. AliExpress users have left feedback confirming excellent support for Arduino and STM32Cube IDEs:
> Overall review: A very powerful MCU — highly recommended. Details: Fast shipping: delivered to Algiers within 11 days. Packaging is poor; for this price, it should come with a plastic protective box. The included pin headers are low quality; I replaced them with black headers. The board comes with a preinstalled bootloader, so there’s no need to buy an st-link or uart module. Out of the box, it blinks the built-in LED and prints the date to the serial monitor. I successfully programmed it using Arduino IDE without any issues. I tested it for temperature monitoring using 4 ntc thermistors and an ads1115 (wiring and code are shown in the provided images). I also programmed it using stm32cubeide; LED blinking worked perfectly. I strongly recommend this board.
Another user connected the board to an original ST-LINK-v2 and tested some basic demos, all functioning properly. With the release of MicroPython v1.28, another option is available for the WeAct STM32U585CIU6 Core Mini board.