Karnataka Launches KEO, an Affordable AI-Ready Personal Computer

Karnataka has introduced KEO, a compact and low-cost AI-ready personal computer developed to bridge the digital learning divide across the State. Designed in collaboration with KEONICS, the device aims to expand access to computing for students, households, and public institutions.

Purpose Behind the Initiative

The State highlighted that fewer than 10 per cent of Indian households own a computer, with Karnataka ranking only slightly higher. Studies show that the absence of computing devices limits students’ participation in digital learning, contributing to dropout rates. KEO has been positioned as an inclusion-focused device intended to support education, skilling, and digital livelihoods.

Technical Features and AI Capabilities

KEO is built on an open-source RISC-V processor and operates on a Linux-based system. It includes 4G, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB-A and USB-C ports, HDMI output, and audio support. A key feature is its on-device AI core, allowing local processing without internet access. It comes preloaded with BUDDH, an AI tool based on the Karnataka DSERT syllabus to assist students in low-connectivity areas.

Applications Across Sectors

The device supports tasks ranging from online learning and programming to basic machine control and visual computing. Its capabilities make it suitable not only for education through the PU level but also for government offices, health centres, and police stations where routine documentation and web-based tasks are required.

Exam Oriented Facts

• KEO is an AI-ready personal computer developed by Karnataka and KEONICS.
• It uses a 64-bit quad-core RISC-V processor with a Linux-based OS.
• The device includes an on-device AI core delivering around 4–5 TOPS.
• KEO comes preloaded with BUDDH, an AI agent trained on the DSERT syllabus.

Deployment and Distribution Plans

KEONICS will manage distribution, with initial pre-orders already placed for school deployments. The State expects demand to scale across panchayat libraries, schools, colleges, hostels, and government departments. Wider adoption is anticipated as Karnataka seeks to promote accessible computing and expand digital participation across communities.