PINE64 is halting production of several Linux devices as DRAM and eMMC shortages squeeze open-source hardware availability, with PineNote and PineTab2 stocks expected to run out within three months.
PINE64 is partially halting production of its Linux devices as the global memory shortage hits the open-source hardware ecosystem. The company said on Telegram that it has no plans to produce further Linux devices in the near future because of DRAM and eMMC shortages. Future production will depend on component costs after mid-2027.
The move could make several open-source Linux devices harder to obtain. PINE64, known for open-source hardware including single-board computers, smartphones, tablets, and Linux devices, expects existing stocks of the PineNote and PineTab2 to run out in about three months. The company has warned customers that availability may not return once these stocks are depleted.
The situation highlights a key vulnerability of open-source hardware: open designs and software can remain available while physical components required to build the devices become scarce or expensive.
Not all PINE64 products are affected. Production of PineTime, PineVoice, and Pinecil is expected to continue, while development also remains active. The upcoming PineTime Pro smartwatch is progressing, with demonstration firmware supporting rudimentary drivers for its display, touch sensors, motion detection, GPS, buttons, heart-rate sensor, charging IC, motor, and speaker. PINE64 plans a first production batch after resolving remaining software issues.
The company also plans to expand its microcontroller-based device portfolio, showing that open-source hardware development continues despite manufacturing constraints.
