Karnataka unveils low-cost AI computer for students to expand digital access across state

Karnataka has introduced a state-developed artificial intelligence computer called KEO, aimed at expanding access to digital tools for students, professionals, creators, and households across the state.

The announcement was made by Priyank Kharge, Karnataka’s Minister for Electronics, IT/BT, and Rural Development, during the curtain-raiser event for the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025.

Officials said the compact and low-cost device is designed to support schoolwork, coding, online classes, and hybrid learning, with an on-device AI core that allows applications to function without an internet connection.

KEO was created by the Department of Electronics, IT, and BT in partnership with KEONICS and stands for Knowledge-driven, Economical, and Open-source.

The project is intended to bring intelligent computing to the grassroots and help reduce the digital access gap in the state.

The device features an integrated AI agent named BUDDH, described as India’s first locally trained AI assistant built on the DSERT syllabus.

The curriculum, developed by the Department of State Educational Research and Training, is used by students and teachers and is also available to parents and the wider community.

"Karnataka is launching its own affordable AI personal computer. This is the first time anywhere in the world that a state has taken such a bold and disruptive step,” Kharge said.

"KEO embodies the spirit of Karnataka, designed, developed, and assembled here by local startups and Kannadigas," he added.

He also emphasized the device’s goal of expanding access to computing, noting that "every student, engineer, creator, innovator, and household has access to powerful, intelligent computing at the grassroots, not just at the top of the pyramid."

He pointed out that fewer than 10% of households in India currently own a computer.

KEO runs on a RISC-V processor and a Linux-based operating system, offering offline capabilities and pre-installed learning tools, productivity software, and programming utilities.

Connectivity options include 4G, Wi-Fi, USB-A and USB-C ports, HDMI, and audio jacks.

According to officials, the device is expected to support digital learning, skill development, and entrepreneurial activities while promoting more inclusive participation in the digital economy.