Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Aug 22: Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Friday unveiled KEO, an artificial intelligence-powered computing platform developed by the Karnataka State Electronics Development Corporation Limited (KEONICS), aimed at expanding access to technology and AI-enabled learning across the state.
The device, based on the open-source Linux operating system, is designed to help students and educational institutions avoid software licensing restrictions. Resembling a set-top box, KEO needs to be connected to a compatible monitor to operate and is priced at Rs 19,000. The first batch of 5,000 devices is ready.
The platform is particularly aimed at students and communities in areas with limited internet connectivity. Its AI assistant, ‘Buddh’, has been trained on the syllabus of the State Education Research and Training Department (DSERT), allowing it to support learning even in locations with limited online access.
Two memoranda of understanding were signed during the launch. The agreements were entered into between the Shikshana Foundation and the Karnataka Residential Educational Institutions Society (KREIS), and between the Shikshana Foundation and RSA, to support the deployment and wider adoption of KEO across educational and community settings in Karnataka.
Around 2,222 KEO computers will be deployed during the first phase, covering all 239 talukas across the state's 31 districts.
Speaking at the launch, Shivakumar described KEO as more than a computing device, saying it represented the vision of enabling Karnataka's children to participate in shaping the future.
He said the government had not spent any money on developing the platform, which was created with investment from corporate partners. The chief minister described KEO as a ‘Made-in-Karnataka’ platform designed to bring AI-ready computing closer to students, entrepreneurs, farmers, small businesses and institutions, including those in areas where internet connectivity remains limited.
The initiative is aimed at moving beyond basic digital access and enabling wider participation in Karnataka's digital economy.