MiiPC Android-Powered PC Aims At Kids

One of the big problems that parents face when their kids reach the age where they're ready to go online is how to prevent their kids from accessing content that's inappropriate for their age. The founder of computer maker eMachines has a new computer seeking funding via Kickstarter called the MiiPC. The big feature of this machine is that it gives parents the ability to control access to the Internet using a companion mobile application.

The MiiPC runs the Android 4.2 operating system and allows users to play all sorts of Android apps right on the TV or computer display. The machine uses a Marvell ARMADA dual-core 1.2 GHz SOC. The machine also has 1 GB of DDR memory and 4 GB of internal storage. Storage can be expanded via an integrated SD card slot.

The computer also has a USB port supporting external storage devices. The machine has integrated Wi-Fi, an Ethernet port, and Bluetooth 4.0 built-in. The little computer is designed to connect directly to a TV via an HDMI port supporting up to full HD resolution content. Other features include a pair of USB 2.0 ports, a speaker input, and microphone jack.

One of the key features is companion mobile application that is available for both Android and iOS users. This application allows parents to monitor real-time Internet usage right from their smartphone. Parents can also use that app to limit the amount of time children can spend on the computer in any given day. The app supports multiple user accounts as well. The project is seeking $50,000, and has raised over $49,000 so far. With the early bird special, a pledge of $89 will get one of the computers when it ships this July.

[via Kickstarter]