Penk Chen, an independent developer and designer, unveiled the 'Penkesu,' a multipurpose handheld computer. The name, Penkesu, comes from the words 'pen case,' as the device is built into a chassis that resembles a foldable pen case. It is, in fact, not named after Penk, the creator of the computer.
The Penkesu is based on the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W system, which allows for everything from watching videos to developing simple applications. While the device is not very powerful, it is incredibly compact and affordable. Chen stated that he does not have the intent to sell the device on a large scale, but rather, opted to distribute the schematics for the device for free online. This allows for individuals experienced with Raspberry Pi systems to create their own Penkesu. The materials for the device may vary in cost by region, but the price is approximately $150.
Image Credit: Penk Chen
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Foldable Handheld Computers
- The trend of developing compact and foldable handheld computers, like the Penkesu, presents an opportunity for disruption in the consumer electronics industry.
- DIY Gadgets
- The popularity of distributing schematics and instructions for building DIY gadgets like the Penkesu could disrupt traditional consumer electronics sales.
- Affordable Computing
- The trend of offering affordable, low-powered computing options like the Raspberry Pi-based Penkesu presents an opportunity for disruption in the computer hardware market.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Consumer Electronics
- The development of foldable and compact handheld computers like the Penkesu is particularly relevant to the consumer electronics industry.
- DIY Hobbyist Market
- The distribution of schematics and instructions for DIY gadgets like the Penkesu presents an opportunity for disruption in the DIY hobbyist market.
- Computer Hardware
- The trend of offering affordable, low-powered computing options like the Raspberry Pi-based Penkesu presents an opportunity for disruption in the computer hardware market.
