After much fanfare from the government and skepticism from journalists and bloggers around the world, the supposed $10 (Rs 500) laptop unveiled by the Indian government turned out to be a huge disappointment-and will apparently cost a lot more than the magical amount promised.

The device, named Sakshat and eventually revealed in early February by the Union Human Resources Development Ministry, turned out to be a screen less storage device measuring 10 inches long and five inches wide.

Name:  India unveils  laptop.jpg
Views: 44
Size:  32.2 KB

It will cost at least $20 for a while, and the only technical specifications announced were that it would store 2 GB of data, come with Wi-Fi, and consume 2 Watts of power. After months of doubt and disbelief, reactions online turned downright hostile after the launch. Indian bloggers and news outfits called the launch "a damp squib", while international blogs openly called it "a big dumb joke" and" a complete waste of time and hype". User comments were far less charitable. With 2 GB USB pen drives, more information about the Sakshat and its capabilties need to be released for the press to take it seriously.