India Launches “World’s Cheapest” Computer

Posted October 5th, 2011 at 1:55 pm (UTC-5)
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India has unveiled what it is calling the world’s cheapest computer, aimed at bridging the digital divide between the nation’s rich and poor.

The tablet computer called “Aakash,” or sky in Hindi, will be sold to students at the government-subsidized price of $35.

Indian officials and the company that developed the computer, DataWind Limited, handed out the devices to hundreds of students in New Delhi on Wednesday. The company is planning a pilot-run of 100,000 units.

The computer tablet provides word processing, Internet browsing and video conferencing. The device also has two USB ports.

DataWind Chief Executive Suneet Singh Tuli on Wednesday called for competition in order to get the price of the tablet computer down to $10.

Indian Human Resources Development Minister Kapil Sibal called the computer India’s gift to all children and a tool to help lift many out of poverty.

India has a reputation for creating affordable innovative products, including the compact “Nano” car which sells for around $2,000.