There will be two Joule kits to choose from: the 550x, which includes a 1.5GHz quad-core Atom T5500 processor, 3GB of RAM and 8GB of storage; and the 570x, which packs in a 1.7GHz quad-core Atom T5700 CPU (with burst speeds up to 2.4GHz), 4GB of RAM and 16GB of storage. Both models include "laptop-class" 802.11AC wireless, Intel graphics with 4K capture and display support, and a Linux-based OS.

Microsoft is already using Joule for its robotic companion "Bamboo," which reminds kids with diabetes to check their blood sugar levels, while the French company EyeLights is using it to power a heads-up display for police motorcycle helmets. The Joule kits will be available today for IDF attendees, and soon at Intel's online store. They'll reach retailers a little later, in September.

Update: Intel reps tell me the Joule 570x is selling for $369; no word yet on how much the cheaper model will cost. Clearly, the kit is aimed at more sophisticated tinkerers than, say, the $35 Raspberry Pi.