Kano, which is no longer focused on DIY PC kits but its creative software suite, launches TechCrunch as a standalone company TechCrunch

Kano Computing(“Kano”) Supported projectCompany best fameFor DIY computer software and kits Coding educationAnd turning offSkills for Kids is an independent company that spins the software suite and online community platform.

This move is in line with the British company’s shift away from build-your-PC roots to pursue long-term profitability.

London, founded in the year 2013Over the years, Kano has introduced a variety of products to the market that are designed to teach children the basics of computing. Major Modular computers based on Raspberry PiAccessories such as Harry Potter coding setThis package includes a physical magic tool that works on all platforms.

Kano EffectsFunding from notable backers has amounted to $45 Million over the years. Including MicrosoftThat I worked with KanoWindows PC was developed back in 2019, marking an amazing breakthrough Raspberry Pi from its roots. However, the company clearly has been in financial trouble over the past few years. plansTo bring Disney-branded products onto the market Announcing a round of layoffsAs part of the “restructuring effort”.

Kano was founded in its last fiscal year. mentioned Pre-tax loss of £10.1m ($12m) – an improvement on last year’s loss of £16.8m, but a loss nonetheless. You can still purchase some old productsFrom the good times Through AmazonKano has been moving away form the products it is most well-known for to a range of “Stem”, consumer devices that cover audio and video.

STEM is a hot commodity

You can find more information at Kano partnered up with Kanye West just over a year back Launch Stem PlayerA music device that allows users isolate and remix individual elements of songs.

But with the West Showing his anti-Semitic colorsYou can find me more than suitableKano revealed back in novemberAlthough she had previously stated that she was breaking ties with the rapper it is still ongoing Sell ​​stem player WithoutWestern involvement. Kano was also mentioned earlier in the week. Stem video projector unveiledWhile obsessingly planning for all manner of new products covering every aspect of clothing and food.

Kano was moving in a new direction and this left a critical part of her business in doubt. Kano World It’s been an integral part of Kano’s offering pretty much since its inception — with an online account, users can create games, animations, and art, share them with the Kano community, remix other users’ work, participate in challenges, and more.

The platform is designed to add some fun and features to your computer decks. However, they can be used separately from Kano hardware.

Kano World Programming Challenge Image credit: Kano World

Going solo

Kano World will continue to operate as an independent business entity under the leadership of the Chief Executive Officer. Oli DutchHe was previously the President, Sales and Education, Kano Computing.

Dotsch began his new role in August just like Kano World. It was formally incorporated. According to UK Companies House filingKano World is owned by three major shareholders, including the CEO and co-founder of Kano Alex KleinDotsch and Kano Computing are the two companies that own large shares.

In a Q&A with TechCrunch, Dotsch explained that after leading Kano’s Windows PC sales to eventual sale in early 2022, he floated the idea of ​​taking Kano World with CEO Klein and the company’s board, aware of the fact that Kano was changing its focus. .

Deutch stated that “Now Kano Computing will grow the Stem business.” “The focus on Stem has left Kano World with little budget, resources, or interest to grow it into the product and business that we believe it can and will be. Now on our own, we can fundraise, build a team, and dedicate ourselves to the success of our vision of empowering the creative genius in all young people to create.” And not just consumption.

Kano World CEO Ollie Dotsch Image credit: Kano World

Kano World currently has three employees and is fully funded by its major shareholders. Plans are underway to seek additional funding in the “coming months”. Kano Computing will be providing office space at its East London headquarters, in addition to its equity stake.

Deutch stated that “Extracting Kano World to Kano Computing is complicated and will take time. But we’ve really started in small steps and when we’re done, both companies are stronger than ever before.”

Kano World is determined to preserve at least some elements of Kano’s original “Creator/Maker” spirit, even though it focuses solely on the software side. It could also be seen as a positive decision by Kano to allow Kano World to thrive on its own. Kano could have let it die slowly or pulled the plug entirely.

“In this environment, it made more sense for Kano World to grow out of Kano Computing than in it[side]Alex Klein, Kano Computing’s co-founder and CEO, stated in a statement. Kano World has been through many exciting iterations in its history, even catching Mark Zuckerberg’s eye. Share shareHe uses the platform with his children. This show is the next logical step in bringing new and exhilarating creative experiences to young people around the world.”

Kano World continues to offer two of its three creative tools, – Kano codeAnd make art– Includes access to some starters challenges. Premium subscribers, which cost $10 per month and $100 per year respectively, have access to the following: pixel movementThere are many other challenges.

Dotsch stated that they are actively building out the social network aspect of the platform and its suite creative software. Power users will have access to new products first.

Dotsch said that Kano World plans to double its staff, bringing it to six people by February. Dotsch added that additional software development and creative hirings will follow.