Thursday 29 July 2010

India' s $35 Laptop

Earlier it was Nano the world 's cheapest car, now its the world 's cheapest laptop









Looking as stylish as a large i-phone, this $35 “low-cost computing-cum-access device” is a 5/7/9 inch touchscreen gadget.Nokia 5800



Finally realising his dream project, Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Kapil Sibal on Thursday launched a $35 computing device that will be made available to ‘learners’ right from primary schools to universities. Aiming at bringing down the price to $10, the Ministry has also begun discussions with global manufacturers to start mass production of arguably the world’s cheapest laptop.



“This is part of the national initiative to take forward inclusive education. The solutions for tomorrow will emerge from India,” said Sibal.



Looking as stylish as a large i-phone, this $35 “low-cost computing-cum-access device” is a 5/7/9 inch touchscreen gadget packed with Internet browsers, PDF reader, video conferencing facilities, open office, sci-lab, media player, remote device management capability, multimedia input-output interface option, and multiple content viewer.



The Linux based device will also have provisions for running on solar power besides the usual battery- operated systems. The Indian Express had first reported that the ministry was set to launch the product.



While the device developed by the HRD Ministry’s teams will come with a smaller memory and no hard disk, the ministry said it would be sufficient for a student’s needs. The Rs 1,500/$35 computing device is expected to first hit higher education institutions — colleges and varsities starting 2011 — but the government could subsidise 50 per cent of this cost, bringing down the price.



( Story taken from Indian Express)



Sure sounds very affordable and accessible to all. But certain questions as raised by my computer expert friend, should be asked about this device.

He shared this comment on my FaceBook link
How big is the hard drive? What type of screen ? What type of Processor? What type of graphics card? and the Type of RAM, including the type of operating system will determine its value. For example; Adobe Premiere Pro (movie editing software) requires 4 GB RAM & Core DUO processor with lots of hard drive space to load up movies to edit.If it were possible to give a laptop same as Dell Inspiron (or something like that) with the configurations that it is now in the market for $20, then Dell will be out of business in a month.The value of a laptop or desk top is determined by what it can do for you.But still very interesting news; and it may bring some prices down...hopefully!"

This is very exciting news. Looks like every child in India will own a computer, it will definitely make a difference. Lets see what its performance is like.

8 Fertilize my soul:

Dick said...

I like it and I really would like to try it out. I guess there is no HDD in it but only chips. Well, I don't know but for sure it is interesting.

Mel Avila Alarilla said...

Yes, India's technological research is so advance and marvelous that after coming out with the world's cheapest car, it has now come up with an iPad that will cost only $35.00. Wow, what a bargain. I hope they can quickly mass produce the product so it can be distributed worldwide for the benefit of those who can't afford a regular laptop or computer. Thanks for the post. God bless you always.

Holly, the Old Western Gal said...

If every child in India gets a laptop, we all better start developing a taste for curry and saris, because there will be no stopping India's continued rise then!!! Beauty and brains in your lovely country!

Amrita said...

Oh yes Dick I would love to get one.

Hi Mel, certainly th e future looks bright for those who can only dream of owning a laptop. It will boost the education sector.

I 've love to see you in a sari first Holly. And I will prepare a mild curry for you.
No matter how basic this laptop turns out to be it will encourage kids and expand their horizons. But Internet is still expensive specially WiFi.

Joseph Pulikotil said...

Hi Amrita:)

Already lap tops by Dell,Acer,Hcl,Toshiba etc with a 10 inch monitor is available in the market for about Rs.16000. These lap tops are light and portable but they don't have dvd writers.

As regards what the minister says you have to take it with a pinch of salt. It is common practice to spend huge amount of government money on new gadgets which will not be of much use in real life. Any way let us wait and see what happens.

Many thanks for providing this interesting information.

Best wishes:)
Joseph

Amrita said...

Yes Joseph sir we will have to watch and wait for the results

Gerry said...

Sounds like progress is being made, but I can't stand any problems, so try to stick with brand names I am familiar with and problem free performances, but the young will be glad to experiment if it is cheap, and we will find out and then they can improve the product. Wonders never cease!

Nadwrażliwiec said...

I watched about it in TV. It's really important today for young people to have Internet and be able to use computer - thanks God, that it is cheaper than in the past.