A new style of laptop has been unveiled, helping users build their computer skills as they use it.
A dual device, the Kano PC laptop features an innovative design that enables users to remove or click new parts into place as they increase their IT skills. Recently released around the world, the product rollout coincides with an announcement from Kano, introducing its new partnership with Microsoft.
The Kano PC was developed to make technology more accessible while simultaneously empowering both adults and children to learn IT skills at a pace that suits them, and reducing how many devices are being disposed of each year.
The device has been designed with a transparent shell that allows its users to fully witness how it is operating. The device’s status lights indicate the data flow inside while key parts of the machine can be replaced when necessary with new ones so its lifespan can be extended.
Government figures recorded in 2015 indicate that UK schools typically spend over £900m every year on technology-focused educational equipment. Further studies by the UN uncovered that IT and computers produce approximately 3.5 million tons of electronic-related waste across the globe annually. Rather than simply repair computers, schools in the USA have been found to spend around $3.6bn (£2.75bn) on all-new devices instead.
The newly developed laptop runs Microsoft’s Windows 10 operating system and is faster, more powerful, and more robust than many of its rivals.
Co-founder and Chief Executive of Kano, Alex Klein, said:
“Our goal is to create affordable, powerful computers that demystify technology. This is great news for schools that need to upgrade and repair their laptops, for economies in recovery, and for those at home, in need of new and well-designed tools.”
The company is also bringing out a mouse, headphones and webcam for PC use that can also be easily built or repaired by removing and adding new parts. The additions work with creative software projects that are suggested to Kano PC users when they click the Start Menu in Windows 10.
The projects, which are already loaded within the device, use a blend of music, geometry, imagery and computer science to teach, while topics covered in tutorials include 3D modelling, design, and coding. A curriculum designed to work specifically with the PC is also being developed for faculty members. Furthermore, the device runs a dedicated suite of Windows 10 applications such as Make Art, Kano Code and How Computers Work.
Due to the fact that Kano’s new laptop runs Microsoft’s Windows 10, tools for family safety and privacy are both included as standard, giving parents total transparency when it comes to how the device is used.
Experts on Microsoft software, from operating systems like Windows 10 to collaborative platforms like SharePoint, WM Reply is well placed to help your enterprise. If you use Microsoft technology on your company devices, you can depend on us for advice and support if you have any questions. Get in touch with our specialist staff today and we’ll be happy to assist.