The size of a credit card: This fully functional computer even packs an e-ink screen
Key Points:
- The Muxcard is an experimental ultra-thin computer about the size and thickness of a credit card, measuring just 1mm thick, designed to fit inside a wallet alongside bank cards.
- It features an ESP32-C3 microcontroller, a 1.54-inch flexible E Ink display, NFC, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, an IMU motion sensor, and a miniature lithium-polymer battery, all integrated on flexible PCBs to withstand bending and pressure.
- The use of a low-power E Ink display allows the device to maintain functionality for extended periods despite its tiny battery, making it suitable for applications like secure IDs, digital business cards, two-factor authentication, and event passes.
- Although currently a DIY open-source project, the Muxcard demonstrates the potential future of ambient computing with ultra-portable devices embedded in everyday objects, and its design files are available for enthusiasts to build upon.
- Advances in flexible electronics and low-power components may enable similar devices to evolve into commercial products for secure authentication and minimalist smart controls.