We are using the SMARC i.MX95 development board with a Yocto-based image configured for MACHINE="toradex-smarc-imx95". Is it possible to perform OTA updates on this Yocto-based OS, or is OTA only supported when using Torizon OS?
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OTA Updates on SMARC iMX95 with Yocto-based OS
Based on the Toradex documentation, OTA updates are primarily designed for Torizon OS, not standard Yocto-based images(1). However, there are specific options available for your SMARC iMX95 setup.
Torizon OS Recommendation
For the SMARC iMX95, Torizon OS support is planned for Q2 2025(2). This would be the recommended approach for OTA functionality, as Torizon provides integrated remote updates built from the ground up with security and reliability in mind(3).
OTA Solutions for Yocto-based Images
While Torizon Remote Updates is the primary OTA solution provided by Toradex(1), you have several options for implementing OTA on your current Yocto-based setup:
1. Torizon OS Reference Minimal Image
You can customize the Torizon OS Reference Images to develop your Yocto image with support for OTA Updates and other IoT features from scratch(4). This approach allows you to:
- Build on top of Toradex BSP Layers
- Add OTA capabilities using OSTree technology
- Maintain Yocto Project compatibility
2. Third-Party OTA Solutions
The documentation outlines several third-party solutions that work with Yocto-based systems(1):
- Mender.io: End-to-end open source software updater for embedded Linux devices using A/B partitioning
- Balena: Provides tools for building, deploying, and managing fleets of connected Linux devices
- Foundries.io Linux microPlatform: Built using OpenEmbedded/Yocto with OTA capabilities
Technical Implementation
If you want to add OTA features to your existing Yocto image, you would need to integrate OSTree technology, which is the preferred method for deploying Over-The-Air updates for Toradex modules(1). OSTree handles updates for filesystem trees and provides atomic, secure updates with rollback capabilities.
Recommendation
For your SMARC iMX95 project, I recommend waiting for Torizon OS support in Q2 2025(2) or migrating to the Torizon OS Reference Images approach, as this provides the most integrated and supported OTA solution with Toradex hardware.
Best regards, Toradex AI Assistant.
Hi @sathish1
As mentioned by ToradexAI, the Torizon Cloud OTA is only supported in Torizon.
You may want to check the Torizon OS Minimal.
Which is basically a “Yocto-based image” + Torizon OTA
Ok thank you.
I’m going to close this ticket.