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CES 2025 was like a candy store for tech enthusiasts. Everywhere you looked, there were robots doing party tricks, AI systems giving questionable life advice, and futuristic concepts that felt more like fever dreams than viable products. But amidst the noise of artificial intelligence and buzz, a small device called the Mecha Comet quietly stole the show.
What is this? Simply put, Mecha Comet is a pocket PC. But calling it that is like calling a Swiss Army knife a “blade.” This modular, open-source gadget is more than just a mini-computer — it’s a love letter to tinkerers, creators, and anyone who’s ever said, “Why can’t I build this myself?”
Oh, and it’s made by an Indian team. Not just assembled, but actually conceived, designed and manufactured.
Taking a step back, but in a good way
While CES 2025 was all about moving forward, Mecha Comet took a step back — in the best way. It reminded us what a pocket PC should be like. This is not a smartphone that is trying to masquerade as a mini-computer, rather it is a device that has been designed with unlimited customization in mind.
Unlike the parade of concept devices that screamed, “Look at me, I’ll never come to market,” the Mecha Comet was refreshingly real. Sure, it was just a prototype, but it’s a prototype that speaks to many sectors: open-source fanatics, retro handheld gaming fans, right-to-repair advocates, and hardcore PC hardware enthusiasts. In a sea of AI-powered sameness, this was a gadget with personality.
who is it for?
Let’s start with the obvious. If you’re the kind of person who wants to pull out a device and immediately know what it can do, then the Mecha Comet may not be for you. It’s a level playing field for makers, developers, and anyone who prefers to build their own extensions rather than buying off-the-shelf solutions.
Think of it as a DIY tech enthusiast’s dream. Need a handheld retro gaming machine? Snap on the gamepad. Do you want a portable coding platform? Attach the keyboard module. Curious about hardware tampering? Connect it to Raspberry Pi HAT or Microbus Click board. The modular design means the possibilities are limited only by your imagination (and maybe your technical skills).
the people behind the magic
Now, let’s talk about the people who did it. At the forefront is Shoaib Merchant, an experienced engineer and visionary who has previously worked on cutting-edge projects for Siemens, where he and his team developed advanced automation systems. Drawing from this wealth of experience, Merchant and his team set out to create something that would break the mold. They were not interested in chasing trends or building another closed ecosystem. Instead, their goal was simple: to create a device that was as versatile as the people who used it.
The team’s goal was to create a device that felt more like a tool than a toy. mission accomplished.
stability at its core
In a world where most technology is built to expire after a few years, Mecha Comet is a breath of fresh air. It’s repairable with just an Allen key, the battery is replaceable, and you can upgrade the storage up to 2TB. The creators also open-sourced the CAD files, inviting users to modify or create their own extensions. It’s not just a product; This is a movement.
opportunities for collaboration
The team behind Mecha Comet is actively encouraging users to dream big with the device and explore its potential for unprecedented projects. Whether it’s turning the Comet into a DIY Linux phone using an LTE modem, building a launchpad and remote for a drone, or even sending it into orbit as a nano satellite, the possibilities are endless. Users can add CAN or OBD ports to connect to their cars, turn Comet into a secure and customizable AI assistant, or develop long-range communication tools with SDR. The more ambitious can turn it into a DIY robot or use it as a toolkit for pen-testing (strictly for ethical purposes). Mecha Comet is more than a gadget; It is an open invitation to try something new, to experiment and create something extraordinary.
way forward
Of course, there are still questions. The prototype dazzled at CES, but what comes next? The team is planning a Kickstarter campaign, with starting prices starting at $159. That’s right: you can buy this modular marvel for less than the price of a mid-range smartphone. They are also working on new modules and expanding compatibility with other hardware ecosystems. The future looks bright and modular.
Specifications, if you’re curious
For those who want a detailed explanation, here’s what you need to know:
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Display: 3.4 inch IPS touchscreen
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Processor: ARM Cortex-A53 quad-core at 1.8 GHz
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RAM and Storage: 4 GB RAM, 32 GB expandable storage (up to 2 TB)
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OS: Mechanix OS (Debian-based, custom UI in Rust)
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Modules: Compatible with Raspberry Pi HAT, Microbus Click board and more
And yes, it can run Doom.
Mecha Comet isn’t trying to be everything to everyone. And this is what makes it special. It’s a tool that’s unashamedly exclusive, designed for people who value control, creativity, and community. In a world of disposable tech, it’s a reminder that sometimes, the best innovations come from stepping back and rethinking what’s possible.
So, who is ready to build their pocket-sized future?
