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# Reddit Strangers Built an Open Source Linux Handheld, And They Want Your Help
- URL: https://itsfoss.com/news/linux-platform-kit/
- Published: 2025-12-04T15:48:42.000Z
- Updated: 2025-12-04T15:48:42.000Z
- Description: A fully modular development tool that you can build, modify, and extend yourself.
- Author: Sourav Rudra
- Tags: News

Embedded Linux devices power everything from network routers to industrial controllers. Their broad appeal comes from running a full operating system while maintaining low-power consumption and real-time capabilities.

A group of engineers who met in a Reddit comment section have now created [an open source Linux handheld](https://www.reddit.com/r/cyberDeck/comments/1p93jmo/a%5Fprototype%5Fof%5Four%5Fmodular%5Flinux%5Fhandheld%5Fpowered/?ref=itsfoss.com) that aims to be a versatile development tool.

## Linux Platform Kit: A Foundational Gadget

**Source: The Linux Platform Kit Team*

The [Linux Platform Kit](https://github.com/Linux-Platform-Kit?ref=itsfoss.com) is a modular handheld built around the [STM32MP157](https://www.st.com/en/microcontrollers-microprocessors/stm32mp157.html?ref=itsfoss.com) microprocessor. It **runs full Debian Linux out of the box**, eliminating constant Yocto rebuilds. The hardware still supports [Yocto](https://www.yoctoproject.org/?ref=itsfoss.com) for those who need it.

The device is meant to serve as a flexible tool for embedded engineers and developers. Users can install existing software packages or build their own applications directly on the device thanks to the onboard hardware.

Its creators wanted a portable device for development work that could adapt to different needs. Their goal was to create something versatile but also deeply customizable, serving as both a practical tool and a learning platform.

The device also **supports external add-on modules**, where you can attach a LoRa radio for [Meshtastic](https://meshtastic.org/?ref=itsfoss.com), a multimeter, or a logic analyzer depending on your needs.

The expansion connector **provides access to multiple interfaces**:

- RGMII for Ethernet PHY
- CAN Bus
- UART with RS485 support
- I2C, I2S, and SPI
- Timer outputs
- General-purpose GPIO pins

## Key Specifications

![](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2025/12/linux-platform-kit-front.jpeg)

![](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2025/12/linux-platform-kit-back.jpeg)

**The front and back views of the Linux Platform Kit. (Source: The Linux Platform Kit Team)*

Here's what the Linux Platform Kit packs on the hardware front in terms of core specifications and connectivity options:

- **MPU:** STM32MP157 (*Dual-core ARM Cortex-A7 + Cortex-M4*).
- **Display:** 4.1-inch touchscreen (480x1080 resolution).
- **Memory:** 4GB DDR3 RAM.
- **Connectivity:** Wi-Fi, Bluetooth.
- **Storage:** SD card support.
- **OS:** Debian Linux (*Yocto also supported*)
- **Expansion:** Multi-interface connector for custom modules.
- **Case:** 3D-printable and customizable.

### Want to Build Your Own?

The complete project lives on [GitHub](https://github.com/Linux-Platform-Kit?ref=itsfoss.com). The repository includes hardware designs in KiCad format, 3D models for the case, and all software components. 

**The team is actively seeking contributors** and are happy to accept kernel developers, PCB designers, UI designers, 3D modelers, and embedded engineers.

[Linux Platform Kit](https://github.com/Linux-Platform-Kit?ref=itsfoss.com)

**Suggested Read 📖**

[Raspberry Pi 5 1GB Variant: Is It Worth $45?Other SBCs offer more RAM at this price point. So, should you still pay $45 for a 1 GB Pi?![](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/icon/android-chrome-512x512-82.png)It's FOSSSourav Rudra![](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/thumbnail/raspberry-pi-5-1gb-alternatives-1.png)](https://itsfoss.com/news/raspberry-pi-5-1gb-worth-it/)