RetroDreams reboots the ITX Llama and adopts a sanity-first preorder policy

In the world of boutique retro hardware, a four-month silence usually inspires a specific kind of dread in anyone holding a preorder receipt. Fortunately for ITX Llama fans, RetroDreams has resurfaced with an explanation that involves engineering ambition rather than a sudden disappearance.

The company announced a significant delay and restructuring of its ITX Llama project. What was originally intended to be "Batch 3" of the compact retro computer has evolved into a complete reboot of the platform. According to the update, the scope of the project shifted dramatically during development, particularly regarding the integration of onboard video.

Scope Creep, but the Good Kind

The original plan was to open preorders around September 2025. That date came and went without much noise. RetroDreams explains that as they attempted to integrate new features, the project outgrew its original boundaries. Rather than shipping a minor revision, they opted to redesign the board to address long-standing limitations and improve usability.

"What started as a board update has effectively become a full reboot of the ITX Llama," the company wrote. "The goal now is not just to iterate, but to address long-standing limitations."

The company stated they will not accept any preorder payments until real prototypes are built and tested. Unlike the previous batch, where deposits helped fund production, the creator plans to fund the prototype runs personally.

As an owner of batch 2 of the ITX Llama, I'm not sure if I'm excited to already own one or if I have fomo because a newer-better-shinier thing will be released.

BIOS Updates for the Patient

While the new hardware is back in the oven, existing owners are getting some attention via a BIOS update scheduled for later this month. The update replaces the original miniDOS option with a FreeDOS-based virtual floppy image. It also addresses specific issues with CD-ROM booting and improves Upper Memory Block (UMB) availability under DOS.

The changelog also notes compatibility improvements for Nvidia graphics cards. This is a crucial fix for a platform designed to bridge the gap between modern convenience and the specific, often headache-inducing requirements of late 90s hardware.

There is no confirmed release date for the rebooted ITX Llama. However, the shift toward a "prototype first, money later" approach suggests that when it does arrive, it might actually work.