The world of network-attached storage (NAS) is getting a portable makeover with the launch of the UnifyDrive UT2. This innovative device aims to bridge the gap between traditional bulky NAS systems and portable external hard drives, offering the best of both worlds for content creators, professionals, and tech enthusiasts on the go.
Compact Powerhouse
Despite its palm-sized dimensions (173.5mm x 90mm x 28mm) and lightweight build (306g without case, 371g with case), the UT2 packs a surprising punch:
- Rockchip RK3588C 8-core ARM-based CPU
- Mali-G610 MC4 GPU (capable of 8K video processing)
- 8GB LPDDR4X RAM
- 32GB eMMC for boot
- Dual M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slots (up to 16TB total storage)
- Wi-Fi 6 support (up to 8Gbps transfer speeds)
- 2.5GbE Ethernet port
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| The heart of the UnifyDrive UT2: The Rockchip RK3588C microprocessor drives its powerful capabilities |
Versatility in Connectivity
The UT2 doesn't skimp on ports, offering:
- Multiple USB-C ports with DisplayPort support
- USB-A port
- HDMI 2.1 port
- SD card reader (with support for various formats)
This array of connections allows the UT2 to function as a traditional external drive, a networked NAS, or even a direct media player when connected to displays.
AI-Powered Features
UnifyDrive has incorporated AI capabilities to enhance the user experience:
- Natural language file search
- Facial and scene recognition for photo organization
- AI-generated speech-to-text and captions
On-the-Go Functionality
For professionals working remotely, the UT2 offers:
- One-touch SD card backups
- Built-in UPS with 40 minutes of battery life
- Compatibility with standard power banks
- Direct connection to projectors for presentations
Kickstarter Success
The UnifyDrive UT2 Kickstarter campaign, which launched on September 25th, has already surpassed its $20,000 goal, raising over $170,000. Early backers can secure the device at a discounted price of around $399, which represents a significant 33% savings off the expected retail price.
Outlook
While the UT2 presents an intriguing package for those needing portable, high-capacity storage with NAS functionality, potential buyers should note that SSDs are not included and will need to be purchased separately. This additional cost should be factored into the overall value proposition.
The UnifyDrive UT2 is expected to ship to backers in November 2023, potentially revolutionizing how professionals and creatives manage their data on the move. As always with crowdfunding campaigns, potential backers should be aware of the risks involved and carefully consider their needs before pledging.