C.H.I.P. He’s Next Thing Co.’s open-source, barebones microcomputer that only costs $9. C.H.I.P. can be used in a variety of ways. You can connect a keyboard, mouse, and a display device to him, transforming him into a proper personal computer. Additionally, you can hack C.H.I.P. into a retro games emulator, a robot, or anything else you can imagine. Next Thing Co. encourages everyone to learn how to code and make things with C.H.I.P.
Obviously, C.H.I.P. is not a very powerful computer. He has a 1GHz Allwinner A13 processor, 512MB of RAM and 4GB of internal flash storage. It’s just enough to run apps and browse the web.
C.H.I.P. has a full-sized USB port, a Micro USB port, an audio jack with a microphone that doubles as a way to output video via a composite cable, built-in Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.0.
He runs any Linux-based operating system, and comes with a Debian-based OS with access to a sizable chunk of Linux apps.
You can buy a separate HDMI ($15) or VGA adapter ($10) that snaps onto C.H.I.P. if you want to use a heftier display.
C.H.I.P. is also portable if you snap him into PocketC.H.I.P, an accessory with a 4.3-inch touchscreen, QWERTY keyboard and battery that lasts up to five hours. PocketC.H.I.P turns C.H.I.P. into a DIY smartphone of sorts.
Next Thing Co. is currently crowdfunding C.H.I.P. through a Kickstarter campaign. The project has surpassed its $50,000 goal, amassing $96,895 so far with 29 days to go. The first C.H.I.P. computers are expected to start shipping in December.
I write like I think—fast, curious, and a little feral. I chase the weird, the witty, and the why-is-this-happening-now. From AI meltdowns to fashion glow-ups, if it makes you raise an eyebrow or rethink your algorithm, I’m probably writing about it. Expect sharp takes, occasional sarcasm, and zero tolerance for boring content.
