Next Thing Company has launched a Kickstarter campaign to mass-produce its creation -- a $9 computer called CHIP. With the ability to connect to WiFi, Bluetooth and any screen, mouse and keyboard, this tiny machine is a big deal. It's only 1.5 inches by 2.3 inches making it one of the smallest computers. Using one of these three possible connectors: a composite, VGA or HDMI cord, you can be hooked up in seconds.
With web surfing and video game capabilities, CHIP can also be used to store documents and run actual software products quickly and easily. Next Thing Company designed the little computer equipped with 1 Ghz processor and 512MB of DDR3 RAM. It also has multiple apps, tools and games built right into it, and of course, more apps can be added.
Affordable Compact Computers
CHIP is the First $9 Computer That Meets Basic Needs and Functions
Trend Themes
1. Affordable Compact Computers - The launch of CHIP, a $9 computer, signifies a trend towards making compact computers more accessible and affordable for everyday use.
2. Connectivity and Compatibility - The ability of CHIP to connect to WiFi, Bluetooth, and any screen, mouse, and keyboard highlights the trend of creating devices that are versatile and compatible with various technologies.
3. Integrated Apps and Software - The inclusion of multiple apps, tools, and games in CHIP showcases the trend of integrating software functionalities within compact computers, providing users with a diverse range of pre-installed capabilities.
Industry Implications
1. Computer Hardware - The development of affordable and compact computers like CHIP presents disruptive innovation opportunities in the computer hardware industry to manufacture smaller and more cost-effective devices.
2. Wireless Technology - The connectivity features of CHIP, such as WiFi and Bluetooth, open up disruptive innovation opportunities in the wireless technology industry to enhance the compatibility and accessibility of devices.
3. Software Development - The integration of apps and software functionalities in compact computers like CHIP creates disruptive innovation opportunities in the software development industry to design and optimize software for smaller form factors.