Looks like
Bug Labs is fixing to release its BUGbase in more than one version due to apparent issues related to solid, stable open source WiFi chipsets and drivers. Picking up the
Hiro P Edition monicker (let's hope it doesn't snow crash), this revised first BUGbase will ship without 802.11, but adds a small joystick control, and as recompense for the wireless sacrifice, Hiro P owners will get a free BUGvonhippel module (the hardware breakout box, basically), and the option to snag a pluggable WiFi attachment on the cheap at a later time. For those who want to wait for the full, integrated-WiFi experience, Bug's not yet offering a set schedule for the "regular" base kit, but Hiro P goes on pre-sale at the Bug Labs store for the regular early adopter price this Monday.
posted Jan 18th 2008 5:55PM
What in the metaverse is this thing?!
exactly what i was thinking, Jay
look here. Then you'll understand:http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/08/video-a-little-bug-labs-demo/
I think it's an ipod dock
Whaaaat!!!??! Only, like, a nerd and modder's wet dream...
Think of it as the Linux of hardware. Everything is provided to do anything you wish. Build your own firmware. Write your own custom apps. Nothing is held back. This is basically the first mass produced device platform to stick it to the big-wigs and run with the little guys.
I can't wait for Monday to roll around. I can deal with not having wifi for now. Thank you Bug Labs!!!
Did I hear it's running ARM11? I forsee an Android box in the near future...
The whole thing seems gimmicky at best.
Im liking the idea but im wondering what it will be like to actually use...
Also it seems quite bulky...
And what input options are there? I went to the website and it seems you are limited to the buttons on the main unit.
Above commenters suck at research, spend 10 minutes on the site.
It's a touch screen - and they are developing a mini keyboard as well.
Possible uses are endless, with GPS, camera, accelerometer, touchscreen, double-wide touchscreen.
I mean you could use it as a GPS navigator, while outputting some music, and using it to take calls hands free - damn maybe they can have an ODBII module, or someone can use a USB ODBII, and bam - instant scanguage.
portable widgets, widescreen PMP, android phone? You can do tons of shit with this thing - and in the end it might even be cheaper then buying separate devices. I just hope the developers get on board.
The whole point to bug labs products is that YOU are the developer, so get on board!
Guess they haven't heard of ralink? They are cheap, reliable, support the latest WIFI features, have very recent revisions and have open source linux drivers.
http://www.ralinktech.com/ralink/Home/Support/Linux.html
It's unfortunate that Wifi chipset manufacturers are so closed on their documentation unless you are a manufacturing buying 10 million units!
I like these products. The other I have been working with, same concept, http://www.virtualcogs.com/ is apparently having similar issues getting proper access to appropriate Wifi drivers.