BASIC-256 Gets QT6 Makeover, Lands in the Browser

BASIC-256, an educational dialect derived from KidBASIC, has been ported to QT6 by developer UglyMike. The new release includes a WebAssembly build that runs in browsers, plus native versions for macOS (Apple Silicon), x86, and Raspberry Pi ARM. The project is open-source and currently in beta.

BASIC-256, an open-source educational BASIC dialect based on KidBASIC, has received a major overhaul as developer UglyMike has migrated it to the QT6 framework. Version 2.1 beta 01 marks the debut of multi-platform support including native desktop builds and a browser-based WebAssembly implementation.

The language retains features suited to beginners and hobbyists: 64-bit variables, built-in graphics routines, and educational-focused design. The desktop builds target macOS (Apple Silicon only), x86, and Raspberry Pi (ARM). The web version runs directly in browsers but lacks hardware access for peripherals like serial ports.

As an open-source project, users can compile BASIC-256 for additional platforms beyond the provided binaries. Documentation is available online. The developer actively solicits bug reports and feedback during the beta phase. The move to QT6 underscores renewed interest in retro and educational programming environments; Microsoft also released the source code for its 6502 BASIC implementation in recent years.