LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3 Is Based on Linux, Launches in 2013

LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3, a new platform for consumer robotics designed to introduce a new generation to the excitement of building and programming robots, while adding new flexibility for its devoted following of robotics enthusiasts, has been announced by the LEGO Group.

The first edition of LEGO MINDSTORMS was launched in 1998 and it quickly became an object of interest for people worldwide.

This new version marks the 15th anniversary and it's designed and built for the users of the first and second generation who grew with the technology.

Furthermore, the audience for consumer robotics has grown considerably, leading the team to focus on simplifying the experience for a younger user while making it more flexible and powerful for hobbyists and other enthusiasts.

What's more interesting is that the new MINDSTORMS system is now powered by the new EV3 Intelligent Brick, which is faster, with more memory and a larger processor.

Intelligent Brick now un-tethers robots from the computer by providing users expanded on-brick programming and tighter integration with smart devices (such as smartphones)

A new infrared sensor has been implemented, giving builders more control over their robots and adding personality to the robot as it follows the builder or other devices.

The new Linux based firmware has also been drastically improved and it comes with a USB port and SD expansion slot, which will offer expanded programming, not to mention full iOS and Android compatibility out of the box.

“Fifteen years ago, we were among the first companies to help children use the power of technology to add life-like behaviors to their LEGO creations with the MINDSTORMS platform,” said Camilla Bottke, LEGO MINDSTORMS project lead at The LEGO Group.

LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3 is expected to ship in the second part of 2013 and will have a suggested retail price of $349.99 and €349.99.