More and more new games are targeted to mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets running Android and iOS, and less games are developed for standard gaming console. To work around this issue, OUYA is working on a gaming console based on Android ICS called .. well… OUYA, and posted the project on Kickstarter to complete development and start manufacturing.
Here are OUYA Specifications:
- Nvidia Tegra3 quad-core cortex A9 processor
- 1 GB RAM
- 8 GB of internal flash storage
- HDMI port (up to 1080p HD)
- WiFi 802.11 b/g/n
- Bluetooth LE 4.0
- USB 2.0 port
- Wireless controller with standard controls (two analog sticks, d-pad, eight action buttons, a system button), a touchpad
- Android 4.0
Although you may just think it will just run existing Android games, the company expects the device to bring higher end games such as the ones available on console. Each box will be a development kit, and developers won’t need to buy an SDK or license to work on the device. The company says the OUYA is easy to root, and doing so won’t void the warranty, so you should be able to do pretty much anything you want, and possibly even run operating systems based on Linux such as Ubuntu or Debian.
You can watch OUYA kickstarter teaser video below.
As I said on the opening paragraph, the project has landed on Kickstarter, and it has already raised over 2 million dollars in about 24 hours thanks to over 17,000 backers who pledged between $10 to $10,000 for the projects. Early pledges to get the console and the controller were $95, and you can now pledge $99 to get the package. Shipping is free for US residents, but you’ll have to add $20 for international shipping, and extra controller can be purchased for $30. However, their FAQ indicates the product will be ready in March, so… That next year.. March 2013.
So that’s another low cost quad core development kit for those who are very patient (but if you have bought a Raspberry Pi, you should already have received a “patience” certification). If you want specific games to be ported to the device, you can answer OUYA survey. Minecraft will be one of the first game ported to OUYA. You can visit OUYA Kickstarter page for further details.
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.
Support CNX Software! Donate via cryptocurrencies, become a Patron on Patreon, or purchase goods on Amazon or Aliexpress
