PINE64 has warned that its Linux hardware cupboard could soon look bare thanks to memory shortages.
In a statement PINE64 said the current DRAM and eMMC shortage means it has no plans to make more Linux devices soon. That is grim news for anyone eyeing its cheap and cheerful hacker kit.
“Hi everyone! Just a quick reminder that, due to the current DRAM/eMMC shortage, there are no plans to continue producing additional Linux devices in the near future. Whether production continues or not depends on the pricing situation for those components after mid 2027,” PINE64 said.
PINE64 appears ready to wait until component pricing stops being silly before deciding whether more Linux hardware makes sense. The PineNote and PineTab2 look most exposed. PINE64 reckons both could run out of stock in about three months.
“Devices like the PineNote and PineTab2 are currently estimated to run out of stock in three months’ time. Just pre-warning everyone in case people start asking when things are going to be in stock again,” the company said.
The PineTab2 is an ARM-based tablet built for Linux rather than Android, which makes it catnip for the sort of user who likes their devices awkward but hackable. The PineNote is an open-source e-ink tablet for people who want something less locked down than mainstream e-readers.
PINE64 is not freezing everything. PineTime, PineVoice and Pinecil production will continue because those devices use microcontrollers and are not hit in the same way. There is a flicker of good news for the PineTime Pro. Its demo firmware already has basic drivers for the display, touchscreen, motion sensing, GPS, buttons, battery charger, motor, microphone and speaker, although the heart rate sensor still needs sorting before pilot production.
“That’s it for this post. All in all, it’s a bit bleak for the Linux devices, but in the meantime PineStore still have a great lineup of MCU-powered devices which will continue to expand with more exciting devices,” PINE64 said.
