B3 Expands into Hardware with Acquisition of Andromeda Insights
The crypto gaming protocol B3 has made headlines with its acquisition of Andromeda Insights, a prominent manufacturer of high-performance PCs. This strategic move aims to bolster B3’s entry into hardware production, highlighted by the introduction of a new gaming PC tailored for cryptocurrency users, dubbed the B3PC. This innovative device is designed with cutting-edge features, including a self-destructing storage drive and an integrated crypto wallet, enhancing security for gamers and crypto enthusiasts alike.
B3’s Ambitious Hardware Strategy
B3, which operates as a layer-3 gaming protocol on the Ethereum-based Base network, is spearheaded by a team of former Coinbase employees. The acquisition of Andromeda Insights is part of a broader strategy to establish a comprehensive gaming ecosystem that encompasses protocols, games, and hardware solutions. The B3PC represents the first step in this venture, featuring a unique self-destruct storage drive that can erase data with the push of a button, ensuring the ultimate protection for sensitive information.
Insights from B3 Co-Founder Daryl Xu
Daryl Xu, a co-founder at NPC Labs and a key contributor to the B3 protocol, emphasized the importance of this investment, viewing it as a long-term commitment to the future of gaming. He pointed out the increasing demands of AAA titles for advanced graphics and real-time computing capabilities, noting that the industry is evolving beyond traditional gaming experiences. Xu believes that integrating artificial intelligence as a fundamental aspect of gameplay will be crucial, and owning the hardware stack will enable B3 to innovate in a way that seamlessly combines crypto and AI technologies.
Unique Features of the B3PC
The B3PC is set to include innovative features specifically tailored for the cryptocurrency space, such as its self-destructing storage drive. This drive offers two methods for data elimination: a secure digital wipe that persists even during power outages and a physical destruction process that obliterates the NAND flash chips using high voltage. According to Xu, once activated, the data becomes irretrievable, a vital aspect for users managing high-value digital assets or sensitive information. While the entire gaming rig won’t be destroyed, the storage will be rendered useless, necessitating a replacement, which is a small price to pay compared to the potential loss of valuable digital assets.
Additional Security Measures and Features
The B3PC will also include a built-in hardware wallet, robust hardware encryption, and pre-installed support for on-chain games. There is even an option for offline and air-gapped modes, providing additional security for sensitive transactions. Xu elaborated that the integrated hardware wallet is designed for secure signing, local key storage, and transaction isolation, ensuring that the device is optimized for the B3 ecosystem and the Base chain from the outset.
Preorders and Future Developments
Preorders for the B3PC are currently available with a deposit of $200, and the devices are anticipated to ship in the first quarter of 2026. B3, constructed by ex-members of the Base team—Coinbase’s layer-2 Ethereum network—operates as a gaming protocol focused on facilitating a wide array of games. The protocol currently supports over 80 gaming titles and is set to include future releases associated with significant Web3 intellectual properties like InfiniGods and Parallel. Earlier this year, B3 launched its native token, also named B3, which provides holders and stakers with various benefits throughout its ecosystem, including early access to new games.
