$200 Laptop
One Laptop Per Child believes that every child in the world should own a computer. In its quest to achieve that goal OLPC has developed the world’s cheapest laptop. It weighs 3.2 pounds is “spill proof, rainproof, dustproof and drop proof”(NYT) and best of all it costs only $200. OLPC’s unique device is powered by a long lasting battery. The battery is recharged either by rapidly pulling on a string or by turning a crank arm. One minute of cranking will recharge the battery for 10 minutes of use. The main function of the OLPC program is to bring the Internet to underprivileged children. So, of course, the laptop comes with WiFi and software that creates a OLPC network. The bright green and white exterior is very child friendly. But let’s not kid ourselves this $200 machine is no Apple G5 nor was it meant to be. According to those that have used it…the OLPC laptop boots slowly and has a limited number of applications…whatever. If successful this technology will bring the Internet to the doorstep of the poor and could change the world.
