Zeebo

Zeebo, a low-powered game console that uses 3G wireless networks to download content and access updates, has been getting quite a bit of attention. Named as the “fourth console" (after the Wii, Xbox, and PS3) and aimed at emerging markets, Zeebo is simply supposed to be a gaming machine.

The company (backed, in part, by Qualcomm) expects to be able to sell the console for $149 a piece by next year (it will initially cost $199 next month when it goes on sale in Brazil).

The system combines a 528MHz Qualcomm MSM processor with a free, 3G link over HSPA that lets the console perpetually remain connected to the Internet without requiring a hardwired connection. Users can buy and download games anywhere the console gets coverage; the cellular link will also allow frequent system updates and, eventually, the ability to share the Zeebo’s connection with computers or other devices that might be relegated to dial-up in developing areas.

Technical specifications

• ARM11 / QDSP-5 running at 528Mhz
• Qualcomm Adreno 130 Graphics Core
• 1 GByte NAND Flash
• 160 MB RAM, 128 MBytes DDR SDRAM + 32Mbyte stacked DDR SDRAM in MSM7201A
• VGA (640 x 480) - 4:3 aspect ratio
• 3G (scaling back to 2.5G or 2G where necessary)
• 3 USB ports 2.0 Standard A (for accessories)
• SD Card Slot / Interface

• Interface: USB HID
• Power: AC adapter 5V 3A
• Consumption: 15 W max.
• Graphics: 4 million triangles / second
• Audio: 8 channels simultaneous MP3, ADPCM, MIDI
• Resolution: 640x480
• Size: W x D x H - 157 x 215.4 x 44 mm
• Weight: 1.3kg
• Sensitivity: <- 106 dBm (in UMTS)

Operating conditions:

• Temperature: -20 to 55 C (-4 to 131 F)
• Humidity: 95% (40 °C / 104 °F)

External links

• Official Website (International)
• Official Website (Brazilian)