Flipper is taking a much bigger step than a simple sequel to Flipper Zero. Flipper One is being positioned as a portable Linux computer with a far more open and customizable design, aimed at users who want to shape both its software and its hardware.
That shift matters because the device is not trying to repeat the role of Flipper Zero. Instead of focusing on short-range interaction tools, Flipper One moves toward modern networked computing and a cyberdeck-style concept built on open-source Linux.
A different direction from Flipper Zero
Flipper has made clear that Flipper One is not a direct successor to Flipper Zero. It is also not intended to imitate Zero’s functions on short-range communication systems.
Flipper Zero became known for working with nearby technologies such as RFID, NFC, and infrared. Flipper One, by contrast, is designed for users who want a platform they can expand and adapt on their own terms.
An open Linux computer with bigger ambitions
One of Flipper’s boldest claims is that Flipper One is meant to become the “most open and best-documented ARM computer in the world.” The device is being developed with full mainline kernel support, without vendor-specific patches or binary components.
In theory, that approach should allow Linux kernel updates from the main repository to work directly on the device. If performance limits do not get in the way, Flipper One could stay compatible with newer software for a long time.
Flipper also acknowledges that building a device like this is not simple. To support the project, the company is opening collaboration with developers and preparing a Developer Portal as a central place for software, hardware, design, and related documentation.
Hardware built more like a real computer
The hardware setup follows a two-chip approach. The main processor is the Rockchip RK3576, which comes with an 8-core CPU, Mali-G52 GPU, and an NPU that can run small AI models on-device.
Flipper One also includes 8GB of RAM. With that foundation, the device is being treated more like a standard Linux computer than a specialized gadget.
The second chip is a Raspberry Pi RP2350 dual-core microcontroller with 16MB of flash memory. It handles the screen, buttons, touchpad, LEDs, and power subsystems, and Flipper says it is powerful enough to run the device on its own.
Built for modular expansion
Modularity is one of the main selling points of Flipper One. Flipper wants users to add functions through modular attachments connected via standard GPIO ports.
The company also plans to release 3D models for the device. That gives users room to modify the device’s shape and physical assembly to match their needs.
In terms of appearance, Flipper One only resembles Flipper Zero in its general form. The new device is expected to be much larger and heavier, which fits its different product class.
Still in development
Flipper has not announced availability for Flipper One because the device is not ready for sale yet. The company introduced the project early to help fund development.
That approach also matches the vision of founder Pavel Zhovner, who supports an open Debian-based operating system. For now, Flipper One remains a concept and ecosystem project in progress.
Even without a launch date, the direction is already clear. Flipper One is being shaped as a portable Linux computer that gives users more control, from the kernel level to the device’s physical form.
Source: www.androidauthority.com
