Power to the People: Karnataka’s KEO AI-Ready PC Revolutionizes Digital Inclusion

Updated: November 17, 2025 23:44

Image Source: Analytics India Magazine

Karnataka has unveiled KEO, a low-cost, AI-ready personal computer designed and developed locally to democratize digital access. With features like an open-source RISC-V processor, on-device AI core, and preloaded educational tools, KEO targets students and households, empowering digital learning even in low-connectivity regions.

Karnataka has taken a pioneering step in bridging the digital divide by launching KEO, touted as India’s most affordable AI-ready personal computer. Announced by Minister Priyank Kharge and set to be formally unveiled by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025, KEO offers a compact, cost-effective computing solution designed entirely within the state. This bold initiative aims to make intelligent computing accessible at the grassroots level and empower citizens across Karnataka.

Developed collaboratively by the Department of Electronics, IT & BT and KEONICS (Karnataka State Electronics Development Corporation Limited), KEO stands for Knowledge-driven, Economical, Open-source. Its foundation is an open-source RISC-V processor running on a Linux-based operating system, providing a full-fledged personal computing experience at a highly accessible price point.

Key highlights of KEO include:

On-device AI core enabling artificial intelligence applications to function locally without internet access, crucial for low-connectivity areas.
Preloaded with BUDDH, an AI agent trained on the Department of State Educational Research and Training (DSERT) syllabus, offering real-time educational assistance to students.
Comprehensive connectivity options including 4G, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB-A, USB-C ports, HDMI, and audio support to meet diverse usage needs.
Pre-installed learning, programming, and productivity tools to support education, entrepreneurship, and digital skills development.

Officials emphasize that KEO is not just a luxury but an inclusion device aimed at students, small businesses, government offices, and households, paving the way for digital learning, skill-building, and entrepreneurship. With computer ownership in India below 10 percent and just 15 percent in Karnataka, the introduction of KEO is a critical move to enhance digital participation and reduce dropout rates caused by lack of device access.

KEO will be showcased extensively throughout the Bengaluru Tech Summit, allowing students, startups, industry leaders, and visitors to experience firsthand how this home-grown innovation can revolutionize computing accessibility and foster a digitally inclusive society.

This state-led initiative marks a transformative moment demonstrating how localized, affordable technology solutions can address socio-economic challenges and foster innovation ecosystems.

Sources: ThePrint, TheWeek, Economic Times, Business Standard, The Hindu Business Line, Moneycontrol, Vartha Bharati.

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