Karnataka has taken a major step toward digital empowerment with the launch of KEO, a compact and affordable AI-ready computer built entirely within the state. Unveiled by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025, KEO is designed to make intelligent computing accessible to every student, creator, engineer and household.
Priced at just Rs 18,999, KEO reflects Karnataka’s vision of bridging the digital divide through a powerful yet economical device that runs on open-source technology.
This article explore the features, significance, benefits and the potential impact of KEO on the state’s digital future.
What Is KEO?
KEO stands for Knowledge-driven, Economical, Open-source, and it has been developed by the Department of Electronics, IT & BT in collaboration with KEONICS. The primary goal behind KEO is simple yet impactful: to ensure that digital access reaches the grassroots level.
According to state officials, fewer than 10% of Indian households have a computer. In Karnataka, the number is only around 15%. This gap directly affects students who rely heavily on computers for assignments, coding practice, online learning, and digital skills development.
The launch of KEO aims to address these challenges head-on. Its low pricing and strong hardware configuration make it an ideal option for students from rural and urban areas alike. At a time when digital learning has become essential, KEO offers a practical and long-term solution.
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KEO as India’s Most Affordable AI Personal Computer
During the launch, Information Technology Minister Priyank Kharge described KEO as “India’s most affordable artificial intelligence personal computer.” He added that no other computer in the country currently offers this level of AI capability at this price point.
Kharge highlighted the compact design and fully open-source architecture of KEO, which gives users the freedom to learn, modify, and innovate without restrictions from proprietary systems. Despite global challenges such as rising memory costs due to geopolitical tensions, the state has managed to keep the price of KEO remarkably low. The minister also stated that the government aims to reduce the cost even further once the market stabilises.
Industry leaders including Infosys co-founder Kris Gopalakrishnan and Biocon chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw have already shown support for KEO by placing orders to sponsor these computers for schools across Karnataka.
KEO Features
One of the biggest strengths of KEO is its cutting-edge, open-source hardware and software configuration. The device is powered by an open-source RISC-V processor and runs on a Linux-based operating system. This ensures high performance, better security, and freedom from costly licences.
The following are the major features of KEO:
- RISC-V open-source processor
- Linux-based OS
- 4G connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB-A, USB-C
- HDMI and audio jack
- Pre-installed learning, coding and productivity tools
However, what truly sets KEO apart is its AI capability. The device comes with an on-device AI core that allows AI functions to run locally, even without internet connectivity. This is extremely useful for students and users in low-connectivity regions.
Another notable feature is BUDDH, an intelligent AI agent trained on the Karnataka DSERT syllabus. This tool provides academic support to students, making KEO not just a computer but also an always-available digital tutor.
KEO and the Mission to Close Karnataka’s Digital Access Gap
The launch of KEO is part of a bigger mission aimed at democratising digital access. Minister Priyank Kharge shared important insights during the announcement:
- Less than 10% of Indian households own a computer.
- In Karnataka, the number is just 15%.
- Over 60% of students previously struggled to attend online classes due to lack of a device.
While smartphones are widely used in India, studies show that they are not enough for tasks like coding, assignments, creative work, and hybrid education. A computer is essential for meaningful digital participation.
This is where KEO becomes a game changer. It offers an affordable way for families, schools, and communities to adopt modern computing without financial burden. By making KEO available across the state, Karnataka hopes to create a more inclusive digital ecosystem where young learners and innovators have the tools they need to grow.
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FAQs
Q.1. What is KEO?
Ans. KEO is an affordable AI-ready personal computer developed by the Karnataka government.
Q.2. What is the price of KEO?
Ans. KEO is priced at Rs 18,999.
Q.3. Who developed KEO?
Ans. KEO was created by the Department of Electronics, IT & BT in collaboration with KEONICS.
Q.4. What makes KEO unique?
Ans. KEO runs on open-source architecture and features on-device AI capability.
Q.5. here can users pre-order KEO?
Ans. Pre-orders for KEO are available on the official KEONICS website.
