GoKawiilMecha Comet Linux handheld raises $1.2M from 3,346 Kickstarter backers
The Mecha Comet, a modular handheld Linux computer built by Shoaib Merchant, has secured over $1.19 million from more than 3,300 Kickstarter backers and is now slated to ship in October or November. The device features a 4-inch AMOLED display, dual USB ports, mini HDMI, a SIM tray, hardware kill switches for wifi, microphone and camera, and snap-in open-hardware extensions like a keyboard and gamepad.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Unlike typical smartphones, the Comet runs a custom Linux distribution natively and exposes 40 pogo pins for community-built modules, positioning it as an open, hackable alternative to closed mobile ecosystems. Its onboard NPU also enables on-device AI processing rarely found in budget handsets, suggesting a possible new direction for Linux-based mobile computing.
- Over $1.19 million raised from 3,346 backers, far exceeding typical crowdfunding hardware goals.
- Device combines smartphone form factor with full Linux terminal access, modular hardware, and USB PD power support.
- Built-in NPU and open pogo-pin extension system point toward on-device AI and community-driven hardware expansion.
Raspberry Pi 5 Single Board Computer — If the Mecha Comet's open-hardware, tinker-friendly Linux ethos appeals to you but you don't want to wait for shipping, a Raspberry Pi 5 lets you start building your own pocket Linux machine today. It runs full desktop Linux, exposes GPIO pins for sensors and custom modules, and has a huge community of hardware projects to borrow from.
See Raspberry Pi 5 Single Board Computer on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: linux.slashdot.org — Posted, 2026-08-24
Published there as: “Could Mecha Comet's Linux PC-Phone Hybrid Be the Future of Linux Smartphones?”
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