This Folding Keyboard Conceals an AMD Ryzen 7 PC

The trend of headless portable PCs is gaining popularity among tech enthusiasts who desire a laptop-like experience with the ability to easily upgrade their systems. In line with this trend, Chinese manufacturer Linglong has introduced a unique product that takes portability to the next level: a folding keyboard PC.

Similar in appearance to the folding wireless keyboards popular with PDAs like the PalmPilot, the Linglong folding keyboard PC offers a compact yet powerful computing solution. The device is thicker than its keyboard counterparts, but it houses an impressive array of features. It is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 8840U processor, 16GB or 32GB of RAM, up to 1TB of SSD storage, Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, Bluetooth, and a 16,000mAh rechargeable battery. This portable PC also boasts three USB ports, two of which are USB-C, allowing users to connect it to a fixed display monitor if desired.

Linglong suggests that users pair the folding keyboard PC with AR or VR glasses to create a truly portable workstation. By doing so, users can immerse themselves in virtual environments and carry out tasks typically associated with a desktop setup. While Linglong’s suggestion is intriguing, one cannot help but draw comparisons to Samsung DeX, a solution that offers a similar concept of turning a smartphone into a desktop experience when connected to a monitor.

An exploded view of the Linglong folding keyboard PC reveals a built-in cooling fan on one side, indicating that the device is equipped to handle intensive computing tasks without overheating. This is a critical feature, especially as the PC market continues to shift towards more powerful and energy-intensive processors.

One notable advantage of the Linglong folding keyboard PC is its claimed battery life. The device promises up to 10 hours of lightweight desktop work or up to six hours of video playback. This feature distinguishes it from other portable PCs, as it eliminates the need to shut down the system entirely every time it needs to be moved. Instead, users can enjoy extended periods of productivity or entertainment without worrying about battery life, enhancing the overall user experience.

While the Linglong folding keyboard PC offers an impressive set of features and functionality, it is unfortunate that the company has only decided to release a limited quantity of 200 units for beta testing. As of now, there is no timeline for wider retail availability, leaving enthusiasts eagerly waiting for the opportunity to get their hands on this innovative product.

It is worth noting that the concept of a PC integrated into a keyboard is not entirely new. In the early days of personal computing, PCs such as the Apple II and Commodore 64 had a similar design, with the keyboard serving as the primary input device. However, those early iterations were much larger in size compared to modern keyboard PCs. Over time, we have seen various attempts to miniaturize PCs and fit them into keyboards, such as the Pentaform Abacus and the custom CJ64. However, Linglong’s folding keyboard PC appears to be a more appealing option for those seeking maximum portability and performance in a compact form factor.

In conclusion, the Linglong folding keyboard PC is a testament to the growing demand for headless portable PCs that provide the flexibility of a laptop with the ability to upgrade components. With its powerful specs, including an AMD Ryzen processor, ample RAM and storage, and connectivity options, the Linglong folding keyboard PC offers an enticing solution for tech enthusiasts on the go. The suggested pairing with AR or VR glasses and the extended battery life further enhance its appeal. However, with limited availability, enthusiasts will need to exercise patience while awaiting the wider retail launch of this innovative product.



Source link