Uptime Industries is aiming to drive the adoption of localized AI with a compact, handheld device called Lemony AI. The diminutive device, roughly the size of a sandwich, is designed to run large language models (LLMs), AI agents, and complex AI workflows independently. Each Lemony AI unit requires only 65 watts of power—about the same as a laptop charger—and can be combined with others to create larger, scalable AI clusters. According to Sascha Buehrle, co-founder and CEO of Uptime, each Lemony AI node can support an LLM with up to 75 billion parameters, capable of hosting both open-source and customized versions of proprietary models. Within a cluster, each node can run a different model, providing flexibility and robustness. The concept behind Lemony AI originated from a side project initiated by Buehrle and his co-founder, Ivan Kuleshov. Initially, they were experimenting with distributing language models on Raspberry Pi microcomputers, not necessarily with generative AI in mind. However, when they discovered the potential of these microcomputers, they began exploring additional applications. Recognizing the value of on-premise solutions for organizations hesitant to use cloud-based models, particularly those in highly regulated sectors like finance, healthcare, and law, they decided to develop their own device. Their goal was to create something small and portable that could easily integrate into business teams without requiring extensive organizational approval processes. Buehrle explained, "We need to build something small but powerful, something that can fit seamlessly into teams and doesn't necessitate broad organizational decision-making. By bringing on-premise generative AI solutions directly to business units, we can accelerate AI adoption." One of the primary advantages of Lemony AI is its commitment to data privacy. Information remains confined within the device, ensuring that sensitive documents, files, and emails are not exposed to external systems. This makes it particularly attractive to industries where data security is paramount. Uptime Industries has already garnered significant interest from firms in heavily regulated sectors. "Everything stays in the box," Buehrle noted. "Your data, models, and agents are hosted locally, and nothing leaves the device." To date, Uptime has secured $2 million in seed funding, with the round led by True Ventures and supported by Alumni Ventures, JetBrains, and several angel investors. The company plans to use these funds to further develop its software, Lemony OS, which currently powers the micro AI devices. Additionally, Uptime aims to make Lemony OS compatible with other leading hardware platforms such as Nvidia DGX Spark and to expand its user base from individual users to entire teams. Pricing for Lemony AI starts at $499 per month, allowing up to five simultaneous users. This pricing model reflects Uptime's goal of making advanced AI capabilities accessible and flexible for organizations of various sizes. By combining portability, low power consumption, and stringent data privacy, Uptime Industries hopes to make Lemony AI a cornerstone of localized AI infrastructure, fostering broader and more secure adoption of AI technologies across diverse industries.