The Karnataka government introduced KEO (Knowledge-driven, Economical and Open-source) on Friday—a computing device ready for artificial intelligence applications, designed to broaden access to advanced technologies.
The development of KEO resulted from collaboration between the Department of Electronics, IT and Biotechnology of the Karnataka Government, the company KEONICS, semiconductor partners, and AI-specialized system integrators. This platform integrates an open RISC-V processor architecture, open hardware and software, and on-device artificial intelligence capabilities in a compact desktop format.
According to the Karnataka government's statement, the main idea behind creating KEO was to ensure that advanced computing power is accessible not only to those with high-performance devices and stable internet but also to people from different regions and with varying income levels.
KEO is equipped with a specialized AI accelerator that allows AI-based applications to run locally. This makes the device particularly useful for communities and institutions operating in areas with unstable network connectivity.
During the presentation, Karnataka Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar stated that KEO embodies Karnataka's vision of taking technology beyond innovation hubs and into the hands of citizens. He emphasized that the state has built a strong ecosystem in deep technology, semiconductors, electronics, and artificial intelligence, and the next step is ensuring these capabilities bring real benefit to the populace.
The Chief Minister noted that KEO is a Karnataka-made platform that brings AI-ready computing closer to students, entrepreneurs, farmers, small businesses, and institutions, including those in areas with limited communication access.
As part of the launch, 3,000 KEO devices are planned for distribution. The Karnataka government intends to significantly scale up implementation in the coming months, deploying KEO in more schools, institutions, enterprises, households, and public spaces across the state.
The launch also included the announcement of KEO Lite and KEO Pro models, expanding the KEO portfolio to meet diverse computing needs and user segments.
State's Information Technology Minister Priyank Kharge stated that KEO represents a practical solution to the digital divide for Karnataka. He stressed that this reflects the state's commitment to inclusive innovation and accessible computing, asserting that it is not a luxury item but an inclusion tool. Accessible mass computing will enable every student, small business, and household to fully participate in the digital economy.