Karnataka to Roll Out First Batch of 2,000 AI-Ready PCs Six Months After Initial Announcement

Karnataka's Low-Cost AI-Ready PC, KEO, Set for Rollout

The Karnataka State Electronics Development Corporation (KEONICS) is poised to release its first batch of 2,000 KEO devices within the next two weeks. The compact AI-enabled computer was initially unveiled at the 2025 Bengaluru Tech Summit as part of the state's initiative to improve digital access and introduce Artificial Intelligence tools in rural and educational institutions.

The rollout was delayed due to global component shortages, particularly RAM, which has become a challenge even for multinational companies. KEONICS has managed to overcome this issue and has retained the originally announced price of Rs 18,999 for the device. The first batch is being assembled at KEONICS' facility in Bengaluru's Peenya Industrial Area, where the company has set up an in-house assembly unit.

Rural Libraries to Become AI Learning Hubs

Read also: Treasury Yields Experience Largest Increase in Two Weeks Following Release of Labor Market Data

Of the 2,000 units in the first production batch, around 1,600 systems will be deployed across 450-500 Arivu Kendras (rural libraries), where users will be trained in AI-related skills such as prompt engineering, spoken English, and digital literacy. The remaining units will be distributed to select educational institutions, including schools supported through CSR initiatives. The deployment is now being funded entirely through CSR and donor contributions, with no direct government funding at this stage.

The rollout is part of the broader ArivuKendra.ai and Schools.ai initiative being implemented by Sikshana Foundation in collaboration with the Karnataka government. The programme aims to deploy 2,222 AI systems across 239 taluks through gram panchayat libraries and residential schools.

Key Features of KEO AI PC

Read also: US-Iran Tensions Spark Uptick in Oil Prices Amid Global Market Decline

The KEO AI PC is built on RISC-V architecture and is equipped with a 4 TOPS GPU, allowing AI applications to run offline. The systems come preloaded with educational and AI-learning applications, including 'Bhasha Mitra' for bilingual learning support, spoken English modules, AI-based prompt engineering tools for competitive examinations, and Karnataka State Board curriculum content for Classes 6 to 10.

The project includes four specialised AI-driven portals designed for students, youth, and community learning. Bhasha Mitra is aimed at Kannada-medium students and offers bilingual science and social science content along with AI-assisted English writing practice. The spoken English module includes AI-powered speech interaction and conversation-based learning tools.

Future Plans

KEONICS said the long-term deployment potential for the systems extends beyond schools and libraries. Future plans include deploying the devices in government offices for browser-based e-office applications and other basic digital workflows. The company has also received around 350 pre-orders from early adopters and technology enthusiasts, who are expected to receive deliveries from the first production batch.