Berlin-based company Deta is redefining the concept of cloud-based workstations by developing a novel operating system and personal cloud space. Founded in 2019 by Mustafa Abdelhai and Max Eusterbrock, Deta aims to provide users with complete ownership of their data within apps.
A New Paradigm for Cloud-Based Workstations
Traditional cloud-based workstations focus on providing virtual machines that can be accessed from anywhere and run applications around the clock. However, Deta’s approach is different. It seeks to create a whole new infinite canvas-like operating system and personal cloud space, where users can "own" their data in apps.
Deta Space: An Infinite Canvas Interface
The company is launching its Space today for everyone to try. The interface, called Horizon, resembles an infinite whiteboard that allows users to draw anything, including text boxes, embedded links, installed apps, webcam streams, or YouTube video cards. Users can swipe through the board in "stretches," which are home page versions of the SpaceOS.
App Ecosystem
Deta already has a growing ecosystem of apps for various purposes, such as:
- Note-taking and text editors: Users can pin these apps to their Space and export their personal data within a few clicks.
- AI chatbots: Deta offers conversational interfaces that allow users to interact with AI-powered chatbots.
- Link organizers: Users can manage links and connect them to other apps in the ecosystem.
- Image and file hosting: Deta provides a platform for storing and sharing images and files.
The company said it has developed an SDK for developers, allowing them to create custom apps for the platform. The SDK is simple to use and supports most languages, except those that require their own virtual machines like Java. Deta also offers a fully managed server and database system, eliminating the need for developers to worry about infrastructure.
Monetization for Developers
Deta plans to introduce monetization options for developers soon. The company believes that this will encourage more developers to create apps for the platform, increasing its user base and ecosystem growth.
Teletype: Context-Aware Helper with AI Chops
One of the standout features of Deta Space is Teletype, a context-aware helper with AI capabilities. Even if users can’t code, they can ask Teletype to create apps like timers and stopwatches by describing them.
Creating an App through a Prompt
Deta’s approach is designed to make it easier for users to create and manage their own apps, without requiring extensive coding knowledge.
Future Developments
The company has ambitious plans for the future. Deta aims to expand its ecosystem by adding more features and functionalities, making it an attractive option for developers and users alike.
Conclusion
Deta’s innovative operating system and personal cloud space are poised to revolutionize the way we use cloud-based workstations. With its focus on user ownership of data within apps, infinite canvas interface, and growing app ecosystem, Deta is an exciting development in the world of technology.
As the company continues to grow and evolve, it will be interesting to see how users and developers respond to this new paradigm for cloud-based workstations. Will Deta’s approach become the new standard? Only time will tell.
About the Author
Ivan Mehta is a journalist based in India who has written for publications like Huffington Post and The Next Web. He covers technology news, including startups, AI, and cybersecurity.
