In a groundbreaking move, the Government of Karnataka has launched KEO (Karnataka Edge Operations) — an AI-ready personal computer developed indigenously by the state. Designed to boost digital literacy, AI adoption, and edge computing capabilities, KEO marks a significant milestone in India’s push for self-reliant digital infrastructure.
The launch was announced by senior state officials during a tech innovation summit in Bengaluru, where the first KEO units were showcased. Built under the ‘Made in Karnataka’ initiative, KEO is tailored for use across government departments, educational institutions, and small businesses — offering a cost-effective, locally manufactured alternative to imported computing systems.
Equipped with AI-capable processors, preloaded open-source productivity tools, and secure by design firmware, KEO supports regional language interfaces, making it more accessible to non-English-speaking users. The system is also optimized for low-bandwidth environments and offline AI workloads, supporting use cases in rural and semi-urban areas.
Officials from the Department of Electronics, IT, and Biotechnology (Karnataka) noted that KEO is part of a larger digital empowerment agenda, aiming to equip government workers and students with AI tools while promoting state-led hardware innovation.
By producing its own AI-capable PC, Karnataka becomes the first Indian state to develop and deploy a public-sector computing device for AI-centric operations. Plans are underway to manufacture KEO at scale through local partnerships, including state-run electronics manufacturing units and startups.
Karnataka's KEO initiative is being hailed as a model for digital self-reliance and regional AI innovation.
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