The size of a credit card: This fully functional computer even packs an e-ink screen

The open-source Muxcard packs a functional computer, E Ink display, NFC, and wireless connectivity into a body as thin and small as a credit card.

The Muxcard is an open-source computer developed by a solo creator, measuring 86mm by 54mm and 4mm thick, roughly the size of a standard credit card. This device features an E Ink display, NFC, and wireless connectivity, making it a functional computer. The Muxcard's creator has made the design and software open-source, allowing others to modify and improve the device. The device's components are estimated to cost around $100 to assemble.

The development of the Muxcard could lead to a reduction in the cost of portable computing devices, potentially making them more accessible to low-income households. For instance, a device like the Muxcard could be used in educational settings, providing students with a low-cost alternative to traditional laptops. This could have a significant impact on the digital divide, as more people would have access to computing devices. The Muxcard's affordability could also make it an attractive option for organizations looking to provide computing devices to their employees.

The Muxcard is part of a larger trend towards the development of small, portable computing devices, such as single-board computers like the Raspberry Pi. The Raspberry Pi, released in 2012, has been widely used in educational settings and has inspired a community of developers to create their own portable computing devices. Insiders know that the key to making these devices viable is reducing their cost and increasing their functionality, which the Muxcard's creator has achieved. The use of E Ink displays, in particular, has been a significant factor in reducing power consumption and increasing portability.

In the coming weeks, the Muxcard's creator is expected to release more details about the device's software and hardware specifications. A report on the device's performance and potential applications is scheduled to be published in a prominent technology journal on June 15. The Muxcard's open-source design is likely to attract the attention of other developers, who may begin to create their own versions of the device, potentially leading to a new wave of innovation in portable computing. The device's ability to run a full-fledged operating system, such as Linux, is a surprising detail that highlights its potential as a serious computing device.