A $99 ARM Ubuntu PC is being launched by the makers of the Mintbox.
The Utilite, created by Israel-based Compulab, measures 135mm by 100mm by 21mm and is powered by a Freescale i.MX6 ARM CPU in either a single, dual or quad-core configuration.
The device will be available to pre-order in August starting from $99 for a single-core model. A finalised shipping date is yet to be announced.
Tech Specs
Detailed specifications for the base model – i.e. the headline grabbing $99 one – are yet to be released but is likely to be based around the lower-end Freescale i.MX6 SoC, which sports a 1Ghz clock speed and HD-capable video decoding.
Other specs of the device will be available for configuration, including:
- Up to 1.2Ghz Quad-core ARM CPU
- Up to 4GB DDR3 RAM
- Up to 512GB SSD
It’s likely that in addition to an Ubuntu option the fanless Utilite will also be available with Android pre-installed.
Ports
As small as the Utilite is it doesn’t skimp on ports or connectivity. The diminutive device offers built-in:
- WiFi b/g/n
- Bluetooth 3.0
- HDMI output
- DVI-D output
- Dual Gigabit Ethernet
- 4x USB 2.0 ports
- 1x micro-USB
- Audio jacks
- Micro SD slot
With full support for OpenGL ES and true 1080p H.264 decoding, as well as HDMI output, the Utilite would make a great media centre for the living room.
Price
Compulab‘s offerings, from the FitPC to the Mintbox, invariably end up pricier than comparative products. With this in mind you should expect the baseline price of $99 to be a mere glint in the rear-view mirror of pricing when selecting additional specifications.
More Details
More details on the Utilite, including information on pre-orders, can be found on the official website @ utilite-computer.com.
With thanks to Compulab