The CHIP computer is a miniature $9 device that is currently the subject of a Kickstarter campaign. The computer comes with the PocketCHIP, an enclosure that turns the CHIP into a smart device complete with a touchscreen and keyboard.
This miniature computer offers 1 GB of processing power, 4 GB of storage and 512 MB of RAM. It is equipped with a micro USB port, composite headphone and mic port, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth and is powered via either a LiPo battery, DC power or micro USB. It's pretty amazing that all of this fits on a board that measures 1.5 x 2.3 inches.
The CHIP computer may not be the most powerful computer in the world but will be useful to niche computer users, particularly because it uses open-source software.
$9 Computers
The CHIP Computer Can Fit On a Post-It Note
Trend Themes
1. Affordable Miniature Computers - The emergence of affordable miniature computers like the CHIP offers disruptive innovation opportunities for the tech industry, enabling the development of low-cost smart devices.
2. Integrated Smart Devices - The integration of a touchscreen and keyboard in the PocketCHIP enclosure for the CHIP computer introduces an innovative way to transform mini computers into smart devices, opening up opportunities for the consumer electronics industry.
3. Open-source Software - The use of open-source software in the CHIP computer not only makes it more accessible to niche computer users but also creates potential for disruptive innovation in the software development and distribution market.
Industry Implications
1. Tech - The tech industry can leverage the emergence of affordable miniature computers like the CHIP to develop new products and services that cater to the growing demand for low-cost smart devices.
2. Consumer Electronics - The integration of touchscreen and keyboard functionality in the PocketCHIP enclosure for the CHIP computer presents disruptive innovation opportunities for the consumer electronics industry, enabling the creation of smarter and more portable devices.
3. Software Development and Distribution - The use of open-source software in the CHIP computer creates potential for disruptive innovation in the software development and distribution industry, as it promotes collaboration and accessibility in software development processes.