14 DAY TRIAL // imp is a new open source computer that is powered by Ubuntu 14.04 and that wants to fulfil many roles, including that of a media hub, a personal cloud, a wireless streamer, and a simple desktop.
The makers of imp have gone to Indiegogo in an effort to raise enough money for the mass production of this little machine. In fact, you might think that imp is a large device, but it's actually much smaller than you can imagine, as you can see in the gallery attached below.
The feat was achieved by using a special layout of powerful and small components, like the Samsung Exynos4412 Prime Cortex-A9 Quad Core 1.7GHz CPU.
The makers of this small PC didn't just settle on one particular use for the mini PC and that is the main reason why imp is so attractive. Usually, people will get a media box, a small PC, or something in between. imp can do everything and it's been designed this way. It's not up to the user to tinker with it in order to get the best of it.
imp is made for everyone
Because it's a versatile product, imp can cater to the needs of a wide range of users. It's also worth noting that it comes with the Cinnamon desktop environment, which is usable even by the most conservatory people who don't like to learn new stuff. It still has a long way to go until it is funded as a project, but it's getting there.
"In recent years, away from consumer’s eyes, the computer market has been experiencing an earth-rattling revolution: single-board computers have become a prevalent force in the development world. Tens of different of these low cost, tiny computers are used by geeks and tech enthusiasts on a vast variety of amazing projects and purposes."
"Meet imp. imp is a disruptive home computation solution: a handy, easy to use computer, based on open source technology, and cloud software services, running on a powerful single-board CPU: 1.7GHz, quad-core, ARM V9. It connects to any of your home displays. It is your Internet kiosk, your TV media center, and your wireless digital hub," say the makers of imp on the official Indiegogo website.
The mini PC also allows users to have their personal cloud services and that is done with the help of Owncloud, which is included by default. It also features 2GB of RAM, and its 8/16 GB of on-device storage.
Users also have access to three USB ports, a Micro HDMI port, wireless HDMI, and support for DLNA and Airplay.
If you hurry, you might be able to get it for $129 (€103) and there is only a limited number of units at this price. The next tier is at $149 (€119).
More details about imp can be found on the Indiegogo project website.
