Epic Foundation, a prominent non-profit organization, has introduced a groundbreaking innovation tailored to meet the educational needs of school children in India – the Milkyway tablet. Unveiled on Tuesday, the Milkyway tablet marks a significant milestone as the first tablet designed entirely in India, focusing on repairability, upgradability, and affordability.
Designed for Indian Needs:
Ajai Chowdhry, Chairman of Epic Foundation, emphasized that the Milkyway tablet is a product meticulously crafted to address the specific requirements of Indian school children. Notably, its design prioritizes repairability, aiming to reduce e-waste and lower the cost of ownership.
Key Features and Collaborations:
- Developed in collaboration with VVDN, MediaTek, and CoRover.ai, the Milkyway tablet features BharatGPT and Bhashini, making it accessible to a wider audience.
- The tablet boasts a MediaTek 8766A processor, up to 4GB RAM, and 64GB internal storage, expandable for enhanced performance.
- Operating on Google’s Android 13 version, the tablet offers seamless functionality and compatibility with educational apps and resources.
- With an 8-inch IPS display, 800×1,280 resolution, and replaceable screen, the Milkyway tablet ensures an immersive learning experience.
- Equipped with a 5,100mAh battery, 4G LTE support, and Bluetooth 5.0 compatibility, the tablet offers connectivity and reliability for extended use.
Sustainability and Longevity:
Mr. Chowdhry highlighted the Milkyway tablet’s durability, asserting that it outlasts competitors by providing reliable performance for up to 5 years. Its modular design facilitates easy repair and maintenance, contributing to reduced electronic waste and prolonged usability.
Future Prospects and Accessibility:
Despite the current 50% local value addition, Mr. Chowdhry affirmed the organization’s commitment to increasing local sourcing as the component supplier ecosystem expands in India. Additionally, plans for 5G support in future versions aim to enhance connectivity and user experience.
Affordability and Market Reach:
Priced at ₹9,900, the Milkyway tablet offers an affordable solution for educational institutions and families. Financing options will further enhance accessibility, ensuring that quality education remains within reach for all. Iris Waves will handle marketing and after-sales service, ensuring customer satisfaction and support.
In conclusion, the Milkyway tablet represents a significant advancement in India’s educational technology landscape, offering a sustainable, affordable, and locally-designed solution to empower the next generation of learners. With its innovative features and commitment to accessibility, the Milkyway tablet heralds a new era of educational excellence in India.
