PINE64 pulls the plug on Linux devices because of AI boom
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PINE64 is pausing production of its Linux-based devices, including the PineNote and PineTab 2, citing a global RAM and storage chip shortage driven by the AI infrastructure boom. Existing stock of affected devices is expected to sell out within three months, and prices will not be raised due to the company's low-cost, hobbyist-focused business model. Microcontroller-based products like the PineVoice smart speaker, PineBuds, Pinecil soldering iron, and upcoming PineTime Pro smartwatch are unaffected and will continue shipping, with more MCU devices planned. PINE64 expects Linux device production to resume once chip prices normalize, a process market watchers estimate could take several years.
Questions this post answers
Why is PINE64 stopping production of Linux devices like the PineNote and PineTab 2?
PINE64 is pausing production because of a global shortage of RAM and storage chips, driven by surging demand from the AI infrastructure boom. Since PINE64's business model depends on cheap, low-margin hardware built from components in ample supply, rising chip prices make continuing production unviable without raising prices, which would undermine its low-cost value proposition. Existing stock is expected to sell out within about three months. Developers tracking supply chain effects on hardware availability can follow updates like this on daily.dev.
Which PINE64 devices are still available despite the Linux device production halt?
PINE64's microcontroller-based devices are unaffected by the chip shortage and remain in production, including the $60 PineVoice smart speaker, PineBuds earphones, the Pinecil soldering iron, and the upcoming PineTime Pro smartwatch. PINE64 says more devices in its MCU line are planned, since these products don't rely on the RAM and storage chips affected by the shortage. Anyone weighing hobbyist hardware options can keep tabs on open-hardware news like this via daily.dev.