On the outside, it's a bulky pen that's designed to be ergonomic for the hands of children, but on the inside it boasts a mini-computer. Using an embedded Linux system, the board contains a motion sensor, processor, memory, vibration module, and Wi-Fi module. Lernstift allows for exchangeable writing tips, meaning kids can choose between using a pencil, a fountain pen, and a ballpoint pen.
Lernstift has two primary functions: Orthography Mode, which recognizes spelling mistakes; and Calligraphy Mode, which recognizes flaws in form or legibility. To begin with, Lernstift will only be able to spell check single words, but future software updates are planned that would allow grammar-checking of whole sentences.
Although it is being mainly aimed at kids aged between five and eight years old, anyone who is learning to write, or trying to improve their writing skills, can conceivably benefit from using the device. The digital pen will initially be capable of correcting just two languages – English and German (though which form of English isn't clear) – but there are plans to add many more languages, including Russian, Spanish, French, and Italian, after launch