The Ataribox will use a custom AMD APU with a Linux-based OS

People are used to the flexibility of a PC, but most connected TV devices have closed systems and content stores,

Ataribox is an open system, and while our user interface will be easy to use, people will also be free to access and customize the underlying OS. We’ve chosen to launch Ataribox with Indiegogo given their focus on delivering technology products, and their strong international presence in over 200 countries, allowing us to reach and involve as many Atari fans around the world as possible.

  

This new product is designed to act as both a retro revival and as part of a new era for Atari on the hardware side, cashing in on the popularity of systems like the NES classic while also offering users the freedom to develop new apps and content for the device. 

Below is a comment from Atari’s CEO, Fred Chesnais, who states that content will be coming to this console from 3rd party content providers as well as Atari itself. Only time will tell how many 3rd party applications will be created for this device and if it will find any mainstream success as a set-top box or as a PC-like console. 

 

With Ataribox, we wanted to create an open system, a killer product where people can game, stream and browse with as much freedom as possible. Atari games and content will be available as well as games and content from other providers,

We also wanted to launch Ataribox with our community, and reward our fans with exclusive early access, special editions, and include them as active participants in the product rollout.

 

On the hardware side, the console is said to be based on a custom AMD processor with Radeon graphics, making this device sound a lot like an Xbox One or PS4, though the size of the console does suggest that this system will be weaker than today’s current generation consoles. 

  

You can join the discussion on Atari’s Ataribox on the OC3D Forums.