M5Stack AI Pyramid: A 24 TOPS NPU Mini PC with a Striking Design

M5Stack has unveiled the AI Pyramid Computing Box, an oddly-shaped mini PC that stands out from the crowd with its distinctive pyramid design. But this system isn't just about looks—it packs serious AI processing power with an Axera AX88500 processor that combines four Arm Cortex-A55 CPU cores with a neural processing unit capable of delivering up to 24 TOPS of hardware-accelerated INT8 AI performance.

Breaking the Mini PC Mold

While most mini PCs opt for conventional boxy designs, M5Stack took a different approach with the AI Pyramid. The system's case is widest at the bottom and narrows toward the top, creating a true pyramid shape that immediately catches the eye. This unconventional form factor serves a practical purpose beyond aesthetics—the tip of the pyramid features a programmable button that users can configure for various functions, making it both a design statement and a functional element.

Impressive AI Capabilities

The heart of the AI Pyramid is the Axera AX88500 processor, which represents a significant leap in AI processing power for compact systems. The 24 TOPS NPU (Neural Processing Unit) enables the device to handle demanding AI workloads locally, from computer vision applications to natural language processing tasks. This makes the AI Pyramid particularly well-suited for edge computing scenarios where real-time AI inference is required without relying on cloud connectivity.

Connectivity in a Compact Package

Despite its pyramid shape, the AI Pyramid manages to pack an impressive array of ports along one side of the case:

• 2 x USB Type-C (host + 100W power delivery)
• 3 x USB 3.0 Type-A
• 1 x USB 3.0 (Internal onboard)
• 2 x Gigabit Ethernet
• 2 x HDMI 2.0 (one is an input on Pro models)
• 1 x UART
• 1 x I2C
• 1 x microSD card reader

This connectivity suite ensures the device can serve as a versatile hub for various peripherals and displays, while the 100W power delivery capability means it can handle power-hungry USB-C devices.

Display and I/O Features

The system includes several user interface elements that enhance its functionality:

• A small OLED display for system information and status
• 4 RGB LED lights for visual feedback
• A built-in speaker and four microphones for audio applications
• Active cooling with a fan to maintain performance during intensive workloads

An onboard STM32 coprocessor handles various system functions including RGB lighting control, OLED display management, power monitoring, and user control buttons, offloading these tasks from the main processor.

Configuration Options

M5Stack offers two versions of the AI Pyramid:

• Standard model: 4GB LPDDR4-4266 memory, transparent case, priced at $199
• Pro model: 8GB LPDDR4-4266 memory, gray case, priced at $248 (currently out of stock)

Both models feature the same processor and AI capabilities, with the Pro version offering additional memory for more demanding applications and a different aesthetic with its gray case.

Physical Specifications

According to the spec sheet, the system measures 144.5 x 105 x 62mm (5.7" x 4.1" x 2.4"), though there appears to be some confusion about these dimensions. The images clearly show a square base rather than a rectangular one, suggesting the listed measurements might actually be for the packaging rather than the device itself. The actual computer will likely be slightly smaller than these stated dimensions.

Target Applications

The M5Stack AI Pyramid Computing Box is positioned as a versatile platform for AI development and edge computing applications. Its combination of powerful AI processing, extensive connectivity, and unique form factor makes it suitable for:

• AI model development and testing
• Edge computing deployments
• Computer vision projects
• IoT gateways with AI capabilities
• Educational purposes in AI and embedded systems
• Prototyping AI-powered devices

The device's ability to run AI workloads locally, combined with its rich I/O options, makes it particularly attractive for developers and researchers working on AI applications that need to operate independently of cloud services.

Market Position

With its $199 entry price point, the AI Pyramid sits in an interesting position in the mini PC market. It's more expensive than basic single-board computers but offers significantly more AI processing power than most alternatives in its size class. The unique design also helps it stand out in a crowded market of similar devices.

Availability

The standard model with 4GB RAM and transparent case is currently available for purchase, while the Pro model with 8GB RAM and gray case is temporarily out of stock. Given the interest in AI-capable edge devices, it's likely that M5Stack will work to replenish Pro model inventory soon.

The M5Stack AI Pyramid Computing Box represents an interesting approach to combining AI processing power with distinctive industrial design. While the pyramid shape may not be the most practical for all use cases, it certainly makes the device memorable and provides a unique platform for AI development and edge computing applications.