At this year’s tech showcase, a small but ambitious company named Khadas unveiled a bold challenge to established giants like Microsoft and Intel. They aren’t just building mini PCs; they’re reimagining what a personal computer can be, focusing on a seamless blend of power and portability.
Khadas isn’t a newcomer to the mini PC space, having already established a reputation with their compact Mind series. These devices, barely larger than a USB-C dock, have quietly gained a following – even offering the capability to connect to external graphics cards for a surprising performance boost.
Their latest creation, the Mind XPlay, takes a radically different approach. It’s a 13-inch, 1440p tablet with a secret: the entire computer is housed behind the display. The tablet acts as both a vibrant screen and a supplemental battery, complete with a built-in kickstand for stable use. It will be available January 9th for $399.
The inspiration behind the Mind XPlay is a direct response to frustrations voiced by users of similar devices. Khadas believes people aren’t looking for tablets that *try* to be PCs; they want a full-fledged PC that can *also* function as a tablet, offering true versatility.
Alongside the XPlay, Khadas announced the Mind Pro. This version swaps the processor for Intel’s upcoming Core Ultra 300 (Panther Lake), promising a significant leap in performance. Remarkably, Khadas claims the Mind Pro will maintain the same compact size and efficient cooling system as its predecessors.
The Mind Pro is positioned as a premium offering, priced at $1,899. Its release, however, is tied to Intel’s own production schedule for the Core Ultra 300, meaning availability remains dependent on the chipmaker’s timeline.
Khadas’ strategy isn’t about competing on name recognition; it’s about delivering innovative solutions that address unmet needs. They’re betting that a focused approach to portability and performance will resonate with users seeking a truly adaptable computing experience.
