Karnataka is taking a significant step to bridge its digital divide with the launch of KEO, a low-cost, AI-ready personal computer developed locally by the state’s Electronics and IT Department in collaboration with KEONICS. With computer ownership in India below 10 percent—and just 15 percent in Karnataka—the compact RISC-V–based device is designed to provide students and households with affordable access to full computing capabilities and on-device AI. The initiative aims to address the gaps that have kept millions from participating in online learning and modern digital work. State IT Minister Priyank Kharge emphasized that “KEO is Karnataka’s practical answer to the digital divide. It is not a luxury device; it is an inclusion device. Affordable mass computing will allow every student, small business, and household to participate fully in the digital economy.”

Over 60 percent of Indian students have reported being unable to access online learning due to a lack of devices, contributing to higher dropout rates. KEO—short for Knowledge-driven, Economical, Open-source—represents Karnataka’s effort to expand computer access. Built on an open-source RISC-V chip and Linux OS, the device offers a complete PC experience at an affordable price. It supports 4G, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB-A and USB-C ports, HDMI, audio, and comes preloaded with educational, coding, and productivity tools.

KEO also includes an on-device AI core, allowing AI functions to run without an internet connection. It comes preloaded with BUDDH, an AI agent trained on the Karnataka DSERT syllabus, to assist students even in low-connectivity regions. Sharath Kumar Bache Gowda, Chairman of KEONICS, highlighted that by adopting an open-source RISC-V stack, KEO strengthens Karnataka’s commitment to accessible, locally adaptable, home-grown computing solutions.

The device will be deployed across schools, universities, small businesses, government offices, and homes, providing direct pathways for digital learning, skill development, and entrepreneurship. It forms a core part of Karnataka’s mission to foster decentralized tech growth and ensure equal digital opportunities for all citizens. KEO will be officially unveiled by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah during the Bengaluru Tech Summit this week. Following the launch, the device will be showcased throughout the Summit, allowing students, startups, industry leaders, and visitors to experience its capabilities firsthand and understand its role in making AI-ready, affordable computing accessible across the state.