Miniand introduces MK803 Android mini PC, hopes to offer Linux downloads soon

Miniand is selling a new PC-on-a-stick called the MK803. It’s about the size of a chunky USB flash drive (or the MK802, UG802, or other Android mini PCs). But it’s a fully functional little computer with a processor, storage, and memory.

This particular model features an Amlogic AML8726-M3 processor and ships with Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich software. But the folks at Miniand are hopeful that they’ll be able to get a desktop Linux operating system up and running on the device.

Miniand MK803

Miniand has a bit of experience in that area. The site was one of the first to post builds of Ubuntu Linux for the MK802 mini PC.

But the MK803 has a faster 1.5 GHz ARM Cortex-A9 processor and should offer better overall performance than the MK802.

The device also features 1GB of RAM, 4GB of flash storage, a microSD card slot, USB 2.0 port, and HDMI output. It has built-in 802.11b/g WiFi and can connect to a wired network using an Ethernet to USB adapter.

The MK803 is available from the Miniand store for $79.

Note that there are a number of other folks selling similar devices called the MK803 at lower prices. But make sure to check the specs. Many have different processors than Miniand’s MK803.

Posted on Wednesday, November 14th, 2012, 8:00 am by Brad Linder | 12 Comments

Roger H.

I’d love to see an open discussion thread here comparing the various Android sticks in terms of functionality, performance, quality, etc. My experience with the MK802 was dismal, but I’m going to have to start playing around with these again to satisfy a family member’s requirements. (“I just want to watch YouTube on the teevee.”)
http://www.liliputing.com/ Brad Linder

At this point, I kind of think all of these are best used by geeks and tinkerers rather than the general public. I’d go with a Roku box or something similar for ease of use.

That said, models with Amlogic AM8726 or Rockchip RK3066 processors should be much more responsive than the MK802 — and it’s a good idea to get a model with a remote control or wireless mouse if you’re looking for something relatively easy to use from the couch.
Vishnu Sarda

Logitech Revue is very very good too…
helnice

Still waiting for something better than Rockchip before i invest (better than MK802 III will say). Altho’ the prices at the moment are pretty good.
But it is all about firmware for now, ppl thinking 1.6 Dual Core won’t cut it for Android biz thinking wrong.

Go go Finless etc! Make the world a better place
Dig

Use droidmote app with your phone. Works great, no need for a separate remote and you always (mostly) know where your phone is.
ddevine

I will actually have a use for one of these soon, so this is probably what I will get if the Linux support follows up properly.
Jeremy Bowers

The mk808 is now available which surpasses the 803. It comes preloaded with Jellybean: The features include gamepad support, better wifi, quad core vid card, dual core cpu, and your choice of air mouse or keyboard remote. Check Ebay for comparable prices.
Jeremy Bowers

These are good enough to replace a windows based desktop pc. The internet is faster, movies play smoother, games run at 50 frames per second. What pc can you buy for $80 that can outmatch this?
Todd Adams

I have an MK808. It sucks. It is fixed 1024×720 rez being stretched to 1920×1080. It also does NOT have better wifi.
Evref

Well this is such a device, with a different chip, no? And as article states, will likely have linux capability. This is available for purchase, would like to see a hands-on review.
Evref

802.11b/g WiFi? weak, all competitors have b/g/n. no typo, all ads and sale spots show same.
initrd

Is it possible to increase the ram size > 1gb

Miniand introduces MK803 Android mini PC, hopes to offer Linux downloads soon

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