The Karnataka government has introduced KEO, a compact and affordable AI-powered computer created to make intelligent technology accessible to students, innovators, small businesses, and households. The announcement was made by Minister Priyank Kharge during the curtain-raiser event of the Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) 2025.
Developed by the Department of Electronics, IT & BT in collaboration with KEONICS, KEO—short for Knowledge-driven, Economical, Open-source—aims to strengthen digital learning and empower citizens at the grassroots. One of its major highlights is the built-in AI core, which allows users to run advanced AI applications without internet connectivity.
The device also integrates BUDDH, promoted as India’s first local AI agent trained on the DSERT syllabus. This feature is designed to support students, teachers, and parents by offering curriculum-based assistance for learning and teaching.
Powered by a RISC-V processor and a Linux-based OS, KEO includes offline educational tools, productivity apps, coding utilities, and multiple connectivity options such as 4G, Wi-Fi, HDMI, and USB ports. Officials said this initiative hopes to bridge the digital divide, especially as fewer than 10% of Indian households own a computer.
Speaking at the event, Kharge said the launch marks a historic moment, calling it a bold and disruptive move by the state. He noted that KEO reflects Karnataka’s innovation spirit, being fully designed and assembled by local startups and professionals.
