DeepComputing has introduced a new iteration of its DC-ROMA RISC-V tablet, now equipped to run Ubuntu!
The DC-ROMA RISC-V Pad II features a 10.1 inch IPS 10-point touch display with a resolution of 1920×1200, and it utilizes the same SpacemiT K1 SoC as their RISC-V Ubuntu laptop, which faced initial confusion regarding pricing and availability.
This processor includes eight 64-bit RISC-V cores with speeds up to 2.0 GHz, RVA 22 Profile, and the 256-bit RVV 1.0 standard, allowing for advanced AI capabilities. It also features an Imagine Technologies BXE-2-2 GPU operating at a base speed of 800 MHz.
In terms of memory, the basic model comes with 4GB of LPDDR4 RAM, with options to upgrade to 8GB or 16GB for an additional cost. Storage options include a standard 64 GB eMMC, with an upgradeable 128 GB eMMC available for the 16 GB model – expect higher costs with these enhancements.
Also present is a 6000 mAh battery, front and rear cameras, a USB Type-C 3.0 port (with DisplayPort), and a 3.5mm audio jack.
The DC-ROMA RISC-V Pad II ships with Ubuntu 24.04 out the box, but DeepComputing say the 16GB model will also support (a custom build of) Android 15 AOSP in time.
Who Needs a RISC-V Tablet?
“With native RISC-V development and compilation capabilities, the DC-ROMA RISC-V Pad II can provide the same level of development environment and experience as the DC-ROMA RISC-V Laptop II,” the company states regarding the tablet.
However, compiling code on a touchscreen keyboard may not be the preferred choice for everyone; thus, the Pad II also accommodates external keyboards and mice.
The field of RISC-V computing holds promise, primarily targeting developers, early adopters, and technology enthusiasts for now. While the performance of RISC-V chips is on the rise, it has yet to meet the mainstream standards.
Although the high cost may deter the average consumer from purchasing such a device with limited performance capabilities, the availability of these devices remains crucial.
Without accessible and reasonably priced RISC-V hardware for hobbyists to experiment with, the developmental progress of software will stagnate.
Those who are considering a RISC-V tablet—a group I suspect is sizable—and are interested in purchasing one—a group I suspect is not as large—can place a pre-order for the DC-ROMA RISC-V Pad II starting at $149 via the DeepComputing website.
The dispatch of these tablets is expected to commence in September, though they are shipping from China, so additional charges for import and shipping may apply.