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# Itty-Bitty Geek Gadgets
Ben NanoNote Open Source Hardware is for Linux Nerds

By Katie Cordrey | Published 2010-07-12 | Tech
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ben-nanonote
References: [pulster.eu](http://www.pulster.eu/index.html?nanonote.htm) & [blog.shuningbian.net](http://blog.shuningbian.net/2010/06/ben-nanonote-first-impressions.html)

The [open source hardware](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lilygo-tdeck-plus) Ben NanoNote is an [inexpensive -- about $100 US](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rgb10x) -- tiny, shiny and totally rad geek gadget for Linux nerds. It has a keyboard, USB port and micro-SD card slot.

Ben NanoNote runs OpenWRT and is copyleft hardware. Gnu.org explains: “Copyleft is a general method for making a program (or other work) free, and requiring all modified and extended versions of the program to be free as well.” Schematics for the NanoNote can be downloaded from [qi-hardware](http://en.qi-hardware.com/wiki/Main_Page).

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 3.2/10
- Popularity: 12% | Activity: 76% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 90% men, 10% women
- Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets)

## Key Themes

### Key Themes Behind This Trend

- **Open Source Hardware:** Manufacturers can adopt open source hardware to create affordable gadgets that cater to niche markets.
- **Copyleft Movement:** Joining the copyleft movement can give businesses the opportunity to promote freedom, creativity, and innovation in the industry.
- **Linux-based Systems:** Linux-based systems have a growing market, offering businesses an opportunity to create affordable and customizable hardware and software solutions.

### Where This Applies

- **Tech Gadgets:** Tech gadget manufacturers can create affordable and customizable gadgets for niche markets using open source hardware.
- **Software Development:** Software developers can join the copyleft movement by developing software or hardware that is free and open source.
- **Linux Distribution and Support Services:** Companies can provide Linux distribution and support services for businesses and individuals looking for reliable and affordable software solutions.

## Related on Trend Hunter

- [Tiny Retro Gamer Consoles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/open-source-games-console.md)
- [Open-Source Handheld PCs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/creoqode.md)
- [Keychain-Sized Gaming Consoles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rg-nano.md)
- [Retro Software DIY Handhelds](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/retro-windows-98.md)
- [Interchangeable Control Handheld Computers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mecha-comet.md)
- [High-Performance Handheld Gamer Consoles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/orange-pi-neo.md)
- [Folding Handheld PCs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/penkesu.md)
- [Open-Source Laptop Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hp-dev-one.md)
- [Compact Productivity Laptop Models](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mnt-pocket-reform.md)
