Flipper Devices, renowned for its innovative Flipper Zero hacking device, has unveiled its latest creation, the Flipper One. This new gadget is designed with multiple network connectivity options and functions as a Linux PC, catering to the needs of hackers and tech enthusiasts alike. The company has achieved significant success with over a million Flipper Zero units sold, generating upwards of $150 million in revenue. However, Flipper One is not a direct successor; rather, it operates on a different technological layer.
The Flipper Zero has gained popularity within the hacker community, enabling connections to various radios including Bluetooth, RFID, NFC, and Infrared, effectively functioning as a versatile key fob or entry pass. Users have leveraged its capabilities for various applications, including innovative experiments with nearby devices.
The Flipper One boasts impressive network features, offering dual Gigabit Ethernet, USB Ethernet at 5 Gbps, and Wi-Fi 6E across multiple bands. It also includes an M.2 port for connecting additional devices like 5G modems, AI accelerators, and SSDs. Currently, the device is in development, with the company announcing its potential and inviting community input.
Equipped with two processors and 8GB of RAM, Flipper One incorporates an eight-core RK3576 chip that runs open Linux, coupled with a Mali-G52 GPU and a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for executing local AI models. The second processor is a dual-core Raspberry Pi RP2350 microcontroller, which manages the display, buttons, and power systems, ensuring functionality even when the main Linux system is offline.
CEO Pavel Zhovner revealed plans for a unique Linux-based operating system, Flipper OS, aimed at enhancing user experience. This new OS will allow users to access different profiles with customized settings, simplifying the process of reverting to a clean state without needing to re-flash SD cards.
Additionally, the company is developing a FlipCTL interface to control small LCD screens on devices like Flipper One, integrating D-pad and touch controls for user convenience.
With built-in network drivers, Flipper One can serve as a router, a VPN gateway, or a bridge. Users can connect monitors, keyboards, and mice via USB to create a Linux desktop environment or utilize its HDMI 2.1 port for 4K streaming. The device's potential extends to running local AI models, generating configurations, and offering useful tips without requiring internet access.
While Flipper Devices has shared its vision for Flipper One, many software components are still under development. The company is actively seeking developers to join their community and contribute to the software, with plans for a consumer launch expected soon, likely under $350 for the base model.
This innovative approach to networking devices could reshape how users interact with technology, fostering creativity and collaboration in the tech community.
