List of the Top 22 SaaS IoT Operating Systems in 2025

Mongoose OS is a versatile open-source operating system that comes in two editions: Community and Enterprise. It provides dependable Over-The-Air updates, secure provisioning of devices, and efficient remote management, guaranteeing reliable performance across various applications. Licensed under the Apache 2.0 license, it also offers options for commercial licensing and support. With its integration into a wide array of commercial products, Mongoose OS boasts hundreds of millions of devices currently in active production. As a strategic partner of Google Cloud IoT Core, it has also received endorsements from Microsoft Azure IoT due to its effective OTA update capabilities, automatic device management, and large-scale firmware deployment features. The Azure IoT Hub illustrates how Mongoose OS can be utilized for efficient management of firmware updates via Over-The-Air methods, while Google Cloud IoT Core employs MQTT for effective device communication. This powerful platform is continuously advancing to meet the evolving requirements of developers and organizations that prioritize IoT solutions. Moreover, it fosters a vibrant community that contributes to its ongoing development and innovation in the IoT landscape.

Created through a partnership with leading chip manufacturers over a period of 15 years, FreeRTOS is currently downloaded roughly every 170 seconds and is recognized as a premier real-time operating system (RTOS) designed specifically for microcontrollers and small microprocessors. It is freely accessible under the MIT open source license and features a core kernel along with a growing suite of IoT libraries that serve various sectors. Emphasizing reliability and ease of use, FreeRTOS has garnered a reputation for its robust performance, lightweight design, and broad compatibility with numerous devices, making it the preferred choice for microcontroller and small microprocessor solutions among major global companies. Users benefit from a variety of pre-configured demos and IoT reference integrations, which facilitate straightforward project setups, thus allowing for rapid downloading, compiling, and quicker market entry. This efficient approach not only streamlines development but also supports faster innovation cycles. Additionally, the ecosystem of partners provides a wide array of options, bridging community-driven initiatives with professional support, ensuring users have the vital resources necessary for their success. As the landscape of technology evolves, FreeRTOS is dedicated to continually adapting and enhancing its features to address the shifting needs of the industry, proving its resilience and relevance in a dynamic environment. Moreover, its ongoing commitment to innovation positions it as a key player in the future of real-time operating systems.

Contiki-NG is an open-source operating system tailored for the emerging landscape of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, prioritizing dependable and secure low-power communication alongside standard protocols such as IPv6/6LoWPAN, 6TiSCH, RPL, and CoAP. The platform is supported by thorough documentation, practical tutorials, a defined roadmap, and a well-organized development process that encourages community contributions. By default, the source code for Contiki-NG is released under the 3-clause BSD license, allowing users the freedom to utilize and distribute the code in both binary and source formats, as long as the copyright notice is maintained. This licensing framework cultivates a collaborative atmosphere that inspires innovation and active participation in IoT advancements. Furthermore, Contiki-NG seeks to create a dynamic ecosystem for both developers and users, ensuring they have the tools needed to enhance and expand the existing frameworks. Ultimately, this commitment to community and collaboration positions Contiki-NG as a pivotal resource in the evolution of IoT technologies.

RT-Thread, which stands for Real Time-Thread, is a multi-threaded operating system specifically built for embedded real-time applications. This operating system is designed to facilitate multi-tasking, enabling various tasks to operate concurrently. While a single processor core can only handle one task at a time, RT-Thread manages to execute all tasks swiftly and alternates between them based on their priority, which gives users the perception that tasks are running simultaneously. Primarily developed in the C programming language, RT-Thread is straightforward to comprehend and transfer to different environments. It employs object-oriented programming techniques in the design of real-time systems, leading to code that is not only elegant and structured but also modular and highly customizable. RT-Thread is available in various editions. The NANO version features a compact kernel that requires merely 3KB of flash memory and 1.2KB of RAM, making it suitable for devices with limited resources. Additionally, for more capable IoT devices, RT-Thread supports an online software package management tool in conjunction with system configuration utilities, facilitating a user-friendly and rapid modular design process. This versatility allows developers to easily adapt the system to meet their specific project needs.

LynxOS has been a cornerstone in numerous embedded devices, showcasing reliable performance for over thirty years across numerous markets that prioritize safety and security. This operating system provides a reliable framework for executing applications in a Unix-like setting, where a centralized kernel oversees all resources and application services, making it especially suitable for hardware designs that predate the introduction of virtualization. Our goal is to ensure that our customers acquire only what aligns with their specific requirements. Although real-time operating systems (RTOS) can offer substantial benefits, they are not universally necessary for every embedded system setup. We encourage you to delve into our Embedded Systems Learning Center for a comprehensive overview of our resources related to RTOS, which is designed to equip you with valuable insights for making informed software purchasing decisions as you design or upgrade your system and assess various real-time platform vendors. Additionally, this center serves as an excellent tool for comprehending the trade-offs and advantages that come with different approaches to embedded systems, ultimately aiding you in selecting the best solutions for your needs. By leveraging these resources, you can navigate the complexities of embedded systems with greater confidence and clarity.

MindSphere® is recognized as a leading solution for industrial IoT provided as a service. It harnesses state-of-the-art analytics and artificial intelligence to support the creation of IoT applications that connect edge devices to the cloud, using data from a network of products, facilities, and systems to boost operational efficiency, enhance product quality, and encourage innovative business strategies. Built on the Mendix application platform, MindSphere empowers clients, partners, and the Siemens team to rapidly design and integrate customized IoT applications. Our experienced team is available to address any questions you may have and help you embark on your journey with MindSphere. By linking assets and transmitting data to the cloud, users can collect, manage, and analyze information in real-time, enabling them to leverage applications and solutions that tackle real-world issues. Moreover, you have the ability to create applications that increase the financial benefits from your data while enjoying an open development and operational environment that fosters greater flexibility and creativity in your initiatives. The range of opportunities with MindSphere is vast, setting the stage for groundbreaking improvements in your business processes. With the right guidance and tools, your organization can unlock its full potential and achieve significant growth.

Speed up the implementation of your vital embedded systems with our commercial real-time operating system, extensive development resources, and specialized services. BlackBerry QNX delivers a reliable RTOS, hypervisor, and a comprehensive suite of embedded software tailored to boost your success across multiple applications. Our platform is the go-to option in sectors like medical technology, transportation, and automation, where it supports key devices such as ventilators, train control systems, and medical robotics. Whether your goal is to comply with safety regulations, enhance security measures, or improve performance metrics, our all-encompassing software solutions and tools can help you develop more trustworthy products. We stand ready to assist you in fortifying safety or security protocols, as well as optimizing your cross-platform development practices. By leveraging our RTOS and hypervisor crafted for embedded systems, including pre-certified versions, we can transform your groundbreaking ideas into tangible outcomes. Moreover, our modular microkernel architecture not only boosts reliability but also reduces redundant operating system development across a variety of products, making it an intelligent option for companies aiming to enhance their operational efficiency. Ultimately, we are dedicated to equipping your projects with the most effective tools at your disposal, ensuring that you achieve remarkable results. This commitment to excellence in embedded systems design sets the foundation for future innovations in various industries.

Tizen is a flexible, open-source operating system crafted to address the varied needs of all stakeholders in the mobile and connected device ecosystem, which includes manufacturers, mobile network operators, app developers, and independent software vendors (ISVs). This platform finds commercial application in a range of devices, such as smart TVs, smartphones, wearables like the Gear S and Gear Fit, and smart home technologies. However, there has been a significant oversight regarding entry-level and budget-conscious IoT devices, particularly home appliances without screens and wearable bands with basic LCD displays. TizenRT aims to extend the Tizen platform's capabilities to encompass these low-end devices, thereby increasing its adaptability and accommodating a broader spectrum of connected technologies. By targeting these often-overlooked devices, TizenRT aspires to ignite innovation and improve accessibility within the IoT sector, ensuring that even the most basic gadgets can harness the benefits of sophisticated connectivity. This strategic move is essential for fostering a more inclusive technological environment that empowers users at all levels.

Huawei LiteOS serves as a dedicated software platform tailored for the Internet of Things (IoT), merging an operating system with middleware capabilities. Boasting an impressively compact kernel under 10 KB, it runs efficiently on minimal energy, with the potential to sustain operations for up to five years on just a single AA battery. Its rapid boot time and robust security features significantly contribute to its practicality. These characteristics make Huawei LiteOS a valuable all-in-one solution for developers, simplifying market entry and accelerating the timelines for product launches. The platform provides a unified open-source API that spans various IoT industries, such as smart homes, wearable technology, connected vehicles, and intelligent manufacturing. By nurturing a collaborative IoT environment, Huawei LiteOS enables partners to innovate rapidly and advance the development of IoT applications. Moreover, its adaptability and dependability render it a crucial asset in the fast-changing realm of IoT technology, ensuring that users can effectively meet the demands of an evolving market.

The MicroPython pyboard is a compact yet powerful electronic circuit board that runs MicroPython directly on the hardware, creating a low-level Python environment ideal for various electronic projects. This version of MicroPython is packed with features, such as an interactive prompt, arbitrary precision integers, closures, list comprehension, generators, and exception handling, among other capabilities. Notably, it is engineered to operate within just 256k of code space and 16k of RAM. The main aim of MicroPython is to ensure a high level of compatibility with standard Python, allowing for easy code transfer between desktop systems and microcontrollers or embedded devices. Furthermore, this adaptability makes it a preferred choice for both hobbyists and professionals, enabling them to apply their existing Python expertise to new hardware applications. The pyboard thus serves as a bridge between software development and hardware innovation, paving the way for exciting new projects.

TinyOS is an open-source operating system licensed under BSD, specifically designed for low-power wireless devices, which serve a wide range of purposes, including sensor networks, ubiquitous computing, personal area networks, smart buildings, and smart meters. Supported by a worldwide community of both academic and industrial developers, TinyOS boasts an impressive average of 35,000 downloads each year. Recently, the transition to GitHub for its hosting platform has been fully implemented, leading to a gradual discontinuation of the previous development mailing lists used for bug tracking and issue reporting, as the community shifts to GitHub's integrated tracking system. We would like to acknowledge the commitment of all the passionate developers who are continually improving TinyOS and submitting pull requests, thereby creating a collaborative development atmosphere that is advantageous for all users. This transition marks a significant advancement in enhancing communication and teamwork within the TinyOS ecosystem, paving the way for future innovations and improvements. As the community adapts to this new framework, it is expected that contributions will become even more streamlined and efficient.

Nucleus® RTOS equips system developers with the tools necessary to tackle the complex needs of contemporary embedded systems. By integrating a resilient kernel with vital development features, Nucleus is ideally designed for applications that emphasize scalability, connectivity, security, energy efficiency, and dependable deterministic performance. This real-time operating system is not only reliable and tested but is also fully tailored for a wide range of applications. It has proven its effectiveness in challenging fields that demand rigorous safety and security protocols, such as industrial automation, healthcare devices, aviation systems, and automotive solutions. Nucleus boasts a stable deterministic kernel that utilizes minimal memory, along with a streamlined process model that improves memory partitioning. Furthermore, it enables the dynamic loading and unloading of processes, fostering greater modularity in applications and granting developers the versatility required for various project demands. This level of adaptability ensures that Nucleus RTOS remains a relevant and powerful choice in the continuously evolving realm of embedded technology, making it a strategic asset for developers looking to innovate.

The Device OS features an intuitive programming framework that streamlines the application development process for your devices. With a simple line of code, secure message transmission to the web becomes effortless. There are four key communication primitives provided for interacting with the web through the Device Cloud. This platform is unique as it integrates hardware, software, connectivity, and cloud infrastructure from the outset, allowing for rapid and secure execution of OTA updates, regardless of size. The installation process is user-friendly, enabling remote updates to be implemented within minutes without requiring custom integrations. Our unique Intelligent Firmware Release capability utilizes context awareness, allowing fleet-wide OTA firmware updates to be completed in just minutes. Additionally, Particle offers support for both individual device and fleet-wide OTA functionalities, which scale seamlessly as your fleet grows, from prototype stages to full-scale deployment. This adaptability ensures that the platform remains aligned with your evolving requirements, making it a robust choice for developers. As your technology needs change, you can trust this solution to provide the necessary support.

At the heart of every embedded operating system is a kernel, which is essential for managing task scheduling and multitasking to meet the timing requirements of your application code, even as you continuously update and enhance this code with new features. In addition to its kernel, Micrium OS provides an array of additional modules that cater to the specific needs of your project. Notably, Micrium OS is fully free for use on Silicon Labs EFM32 and EFR32 devices, enabling you to seamlessly integrate Micrium’s high-quality components into your projects without any licensing fees. This open access fosters a culture of innovation and experimentation, allowing developers the freedom to concentrate on building reliable applications without the burden of financial limitations. Moreover, the comprehensive suite of tools offered by Micrium OS can significantly streamline the development process, empowering developers to bring their ideas to life more efficiently.

We collaborate with both open-source communities and commercial partners to guarantee that MIPS is effectively supported across a variety of prominent Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS) as well as new IoT-oriented Operating Systems. In addition, we have developed the MIPS Embedded Operating System (MEOS), which includes Virtualization extensions tailored for deeply embedded applications and the IoT market. As the exclusive real-time operating system for MIPS, MEOS receives priority for updates, making it the first to adopt new cores and architectural improvements. The recent version 3.1 has unveiled a virtualization library that enables MEOS to function as a hypervisor for MIPS cores equipped with the MIPS Virtualization module. Our commitment extends to nurturing the growth of open-source real-time and IoT operating systems by offering engineering expertise and providing essential development hardware and tools whenever possible. This cooperative strategy not only bolsters the ecosystem but also propels innovation forward in the industry, fostering a vibrant community of developers and users alike. Such collective efforts ensure that the advancements in technology keep pace with the rapidly evolving demands of both industry and consumers.

RIOT acts as the foundational platform for the Internet of Things, paralleling the support that Linux provides for the wider Internet. Created by a passionate community that encompasses businesses, educational institutes, and enthusiasts, RIOT is an open-source operating system available at no cost. It is tailored to support an extensive array of low-power IoT devices and microcontroller types, including those with 32-bit, 16-bit, and 8-bit architectures, along with various peripheral devices. The main objective of RIOT is to maintain critical open standards that promote a connected, secure, robust, and privacy-aware Internet of Things environment. It incorporates advanced security features such as DTLS for transport layer security, encryption through IEEE 802.15.4, Secure Firmware Updates (SUIT), and a collection of cryptographic tools, including crypto secure elements. Additionally, RIOT's modular architecture enables customization to meet specific application needs effectively. The initiative also ensures compatibility with all prominent network technologies and Internet standards, underscoring a commitment to ongoing innovation and often taking the lead in networking developments. In essence, RIOT embodies a unified endeavor to cultivate a secure and efficient landscape for the Internet of Things while fostering community-driven progress and collaboration.

Fuchsia is a groundbreaking open-source operating system being developed by Google, which is currently in a phase of ongoing improvement. This system is being built from the ground up, addressing the needs of the increasingly interconnected devices of today's world. While Fuchsia is still evolving rapidly, its core principles and values have remained consistent throughout its journey. The primary architectural tenets that influence Fuchsia's design focus on security, updatability, inclusivity, and pragmatism. These core values—emphasizing secure, updatable, inclusive, and pragmatic approaches—constitute the foundation of Fuchsia's design and development. As a project driven by community engagement, Fuchsia actively invites high-quality contributions from anyone who wishes to get involved. Despite the various frameworks proposed to guide its design, Fuchsia continues to be a vibrant and evolving initiative. As it progresses, Fuchsia aims to meet the changing requirements of developers, manufacturers, and consumers, ensuring its relevance in a rapidly changing technological environment. The dedication to an open-source approach highlights the significance of collaboration and community input in shaping Fuchsia's future direction, fostering an environment where innovation thrives. This collaborative spirit is essential for adapting to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

To meet the demands of your application, choose from a diverse range of open-source networking protocols, including Bluetooth Low Energy 5, Bluetooth Mesh, Wi-Fi, and LoRaWAN, among others. It is crucial to integrate robust security protocols directly within your code while also establishing comprehensive lifecycle management for your products. Prepare your IoT network to accommodate potentially billions of devices, facilitating functions such as remote monitoring, troubleshooting, management, and system upgrades. You can swiftly design, refine, and build your custom solution in mere hours or even minutes, which promotes rapid deployment and adaptability. By optimizing these processes, you can significantly boost the efficiency and performance of your IoT solutions, ultimately leading to better user experiences and enhanced functionality. This strategic approach not only addresses immediate needs but also positions your network for future growth and innovation.

This system encompasses a wide array of devices, from fundamental embedded environmental sensors and LED wearables to sophisticated embedded controllers, smartwatches, and IoT wireless applications, featuring a configurable architecture that includes stack-overflow protection, permission tracking for kernel objects and device drivers, and enhanced thread isolation through thread-level memory protection across various architectures such as x86, ARC, and ARM, along with distinct userspace and memory domains. Additionally, for systems that do not have a Memory Management Unit (MMU) or Memory Protection Unit (MPU) and those constrained by limited memory, it facilitates the combination of application-specific code with a customized kernel to create a monolithic image that can be seamlessly loaded and executed on the hardware. Within this framework, both the application and kernel code function within a single address space, promoting efficient resource management and performance enhancements. Consequently, this architecture is adept at enabling even the most resource-limited environments to effectively utilize advanced applications and sophisticated functionalities, thereby broadening the scope of what can be achieved in embedded systems.

FreeRTOS is an open-source real-time operating system tailored for microcontrollers, streamlining the programming, deployment, security, connectivity, and management of compact, energy-efficient edge devices. Licensed under the MIT open-source license, it includes a kernel along with diverse software libraries suitable for various industries and applications. This functionality enables the secure connection of low-power devices with AWS Cloud services, such as AWS IoT Core, and facilitates collaboration with stronger edge devices through AWS IoT Greengrass. With a strong emphasis on reliability and ease of use, FreeRTOS offers long-term support releases, which are beneficial for developers in maintaining their projects. Microcontrollers, which are essential components featuring basic, resource-constrained processors, find applications in numerous devices, from household appliances to environmental sensors, fitness trackers, and industrial control systems. The adaptability of FreeRTOS positions it as an excellent option for developers aiming to create effective solutions in the continuously advancing Internet of Things arena. Furthermore, its community-driven nature fosters continuous improvement and innovation, ensuring that it remains relevant in the face of emerging technological challenges.

The emergence of container technology is poised to revolutionize the realm of connected devices, with balenaOS emerging as the leading choice for their implementation. It is crafted to withstand difficult networking conditions and unexpected power interruptions, serving as a minimalist version of Linux that incorporates only the vital services required for efficient Docker operation on embedded systems. Leveraging Yocto Linux as its base, balenaOS supports smooth customization across various device types and CPU architectures. The project benefits from active maintenance and transparency, encouraging community involvement and contributions. Our journey began in 2013 with the development of balenaCloud, a platform that merges contemporary software development tools with connected hardware, where we adapted Docker for ARM processors. This venture underscored the need for a specially designed operating system aimed at this niche: an optimized, lightweight OS that is ideally suited for running containers on embedded devices. Additionally, this emphasis on efficiency empowers developers to fully harness the capabilities of their innovative connected solutions while paving the way for future advancements in device management. The commitment to continuous improvement ensures that balenaOS remains at the forefront of technology in this rapidly evolving field.

NuttX is a real-time operating system (RTOS) that emphasizes compliance with existing standards while maintaining a small footprint. This versatile system is suitable for microcontroller applications, spanning from 8-bit to 32-bit architectures, and primarily follows Posix and ANSI standards. Additionally, it features extra standard APIs derived from Unix and various well-known RTOS platforms like VxWorks, filling in gaps left by the primary standards or removing features that are not essential for deeply embedded systems, such as fork(). Presently, Apache NuttX is undergoing the Incubation phase at The Apache Software Foundation (ASF), which is a critical requirement for all newly accepted projects to ensure they meet the necessary criteria before a comprehensive review. This review process guarantees that their infrastructure, communication, and decision-making methods are compatible with those of other successful ASF projects. Ultimately, this incubation phase plays a crucial role in nurturing the project's development and ensuring its long-term viability within the organization.