OpenPandora Pandora

The OpenPandora Pandora is a handheld gaming and computing device that was developed by OpenPandora Ltd. It aimed to provide users with a versatile platform for gaming, multimedia, and general computing tasks. Here's a brief history of the OpenPandora Pandora:

1. Origins: The OpenPandora project began in 2007 as an effort to create a handheld gaming console that would be both powerful and customizable. The project was inspired by devices like the GP2X and GP32, which were handheld gaming consoles with open-source software and a strong homebrew community. The goal was to create a device that would offer similar capabilities but with improved hardware and features.

2. Development: Development of the Pandora was led by a team of enthusiasts and developers who collaborated online to design and build the device. The team aimed to create a handheld device that would support a wide range of applications, including gaming, media playback, internet browsing, and productivity tools. The project was crowdfunded through pre-orders, with supporters contributing funds to help finance the development and production of the device.

3. Features: The OpenPandora Pandora featured a 4.3-inch touchscreen display, a full QWERTY keyboard, and a D-pad and gaming buttons for gaming controls. It was powered by an ARM Cortex-A8 processor and featured 512 MB of RAM, making it capable of running a variety of applications and emulating older gaming consoles. The Pandora also had built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as USB and SD card slots for expandable storage.

4. Software: The Pandora ran on a customized Linux-based operating system called "Angstrom," which was optimized for the device's hardware. Users could install a variety of software packages and emulators, allowing them to play games from platforms like the NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, and PlayStation, as well as run productivity applications and multimedia software.

5. Release: The OpenPandora Pandora was released to backers and pre-order customers in limited quantities starting in 2010. However, production delays and supply chain issues resulted in a slow rollout, and many customers had to wait several years to receive their devices. Despite these challenges, the Pandora received praise from enthusiasts for its versatility and open-source design.

6. Legacy: The OpenPandora Pandora has developed a dedicated fanbase of enthusiasts who appreciate its unique features and capabilities. While it did not achieve mainstream success, it remains a popular device among retro gaming enthusiasts, hobbyists, and developers who value its open-source nature and versatility. Despite the challenges faced during its development and production, the Pandora continues to be supported by a community of developers who create software and updates for the device.