Alex Klein and Yonatan Raz-Fridman were challenged by a seven year old to create a buildable computer. As a seven year old maker Micah had two requirements - the project had to be as simple and fun as Legos, and no one could "teach" him how to build the project.
Kano is an all-ages computer that can be built by anyone. A Raspberry Pi powers the computer brain, and the machine will be capable of sound, video, games and its own wireless server. A custom case will house the processor and can be customized with stickers, decals and plates that come in the Kano package.
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/alexklein/kano-a-computer-anyone-can-make
The software is open source, based on the Debian Linux system, and intended to use technology as a creation tool instead of an entertainment medium. The self-learning mechanism is based on simple steps, physical computing, and play.
Along with Micah's challenge the design was built to help the world's technical literacy. The developers were frustrated that ninety nine percent of the world is designed for the tech-literate one percent. Top down teaching, closed devices and a steep learning curve serve to push the technology design away from the masses, especially those in developing countries.
The kit comes with two physical booklets, a tool that always appeals to me but seems severely underused these days. One book teaches you how to physically assemble the computer, and the next book discusses the different levels of gaming achievements that you can reach.
Kano has blown by its funding target, already over $600,000 in the first week of the campaign. Positive press has come from all over from the BBC, Wired, and Mashable. Alex and Yonatan have been developing the project since November 2012 and a timeline on the Kickstarter page shows their progress.
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/alexklein/kano-a-computer-anyone-can-make