Bengaluru engineers develop low-cost AI PC KEO

Two semiconductor engineers in Bengaluru have developed KEO, an affordable personal computer equipped with artificial intelligence capabilities. Built using open-source RISC-V architecture, the device serves as a low-cost alternative to traditional computers that rely on proprietary ARM or x86 chipsets.

The project aims to increase access to computing and edge AI tools for students in rural and economically disadvantaged areas. By utilizing the RISC-V instruction set, the creators avoided the heavy licensing fees and royalty models associated with traditional chipmakers. Despite rising global RAM prices, the manufacturing cost of the KEO has been maintained below $200.

The computer operates on a Linux Ubuntu OS and has passed performance benchmarks conducted by scientists at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and the International Institute of Information Technology (IIIT). A rollout of the devices into state-run educational institutions is currently underway.