The Mecha Comet, a modular Linux handheld previously featured on GamingOnLinux in early 2025, has now launched its Kickstarter campaign. This hardware project aims to bring a unique, customizable device to users.
Resembling the classic Nintendo Game Boy, this handheld distinguishes itself by being entirely open source in both its hardware and software. It supports various official front attachments, such as a mini keyboard with a trackpad, a gamepad, and a GPIO board for diverse connections. The modularity extends beyond its exterior to its internal components.
The Kickstarter campaign has achieved significant early success, raising $602,783 against its initial $50,000 goal, with approximately 27 days remaining.
Current Specifications:
- Operating System: Mechanix OS (Linux 6.12)
- CPU: I.MX8M Plus (4–Cores A53) or I.MX 95 (6–Cores A55)
- Memory: 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB
- Storage: 64 GB, 128 GB Flash (eMMC)
- Wireless: 2.4 GHz/5.0 GHz 802.11ac, BT 5.4, Physical SIM card
- Display: 3.92″ AMOLED Display (550 nits), Capacitive Touch
- PCIe: PCIe 3.0 (1x, B-Key)
- Camera: 8 MP (with Auto-focus)
- Audio: 2x Digital Mic, HD Speaker
- Power: 4100 mAh Battery, Type-C (5V)
- Ports: 1x HDMI, 2x USB C
- Peripherals: 9-Axis Motion Sensor, RTC, ADC
- Security: Trust Anchor (CC EAL 6+)
- Dimensions: 155 x 73 x 14 mm (225g)
The project has transitioned its Mechanix distribution from a Debian base to Fedora. Furthermore, the Mecha Comet is set to be released as open hardware under the CERN-OHL-S-2.0 license, as detailed in a January blog post. This post also addressed significant price increases from the original RAM supplier, which quoted an “800%” rise for 4GB and 8GB LPDDR. The team successfully navigated this challenge, resulting in only a minor adjustment to the final price.
The current minimum pledge for a Mecha Comet, including an I.MX 8M Plus, 2GB RAM, and 64GB Storage, is $189 / £139, as early bird options are no longer available. Front extensions are priced separately, ranging from $15 to $20, with bundle options offering slight discounts.
