Ugreen's AI NAS: A Desktop's RAM in a Network-Attached Storage Box
A decade ago, Google Photos revolutionized photo storage with its search feature, allowing users to find memories by typing a few words. Now, Ugreen is pushing the boundaries of local AI storage with its new iDX6011 AI NAS, offering features that rival Google's cloud service. But at what cost?
The iDX6011 AI NAS comes in three versions: the iDX6011 with 32GB of memory for $1,699, the iDX6011 with 64GB for $1,999, and the iDX6011 Pro with 64GB for $2,599. These prices are for the computing enclosure only; you'll need to supply your own hard drives, with a maximum storage capacity of 196TB.
Ugreen's Intel Core Ultra processors (Ultra 5 125H or Ultra 7 255H in the Pro) unlock powerful features:
- Universal Search: Search files using natural language, describing concepts, scenes, or partial memories. The system retrieves relevant documents, photos, videos, and app content instantly.
- Uliya AI Chat: A built-in large language model allows natural questions about stored files, document summarization, note generation, and offline knowledge base interaction.
- AI Album: Automatically categorizes and retrieves images based on faces, animals, objects, scenes, and text. Search for "Dad on a bike" and get instant access to relevant photos.
- Voice Memos: Upload, transcribe, translate, and summarize audio recordings on-device, perfect for meetings, interviews, and more.
- AI File Organization: Automatically sort documents, photos, and downloads by type, date, and name, saving time and keeping files organized.
The iDX6011 is marketed as ideal for families and individual creators, while the Pro variant targets studios and production teams. Both models offer similar processing power, featuring twin 10Gbps ethernet ports, twin 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4 ports, USB-A ports, an HDMI port, and a full-size SD 4.0 slot. The Pro model also includes a touchscreen and OCuLink port for faster external GPU connections.
Ugreen is also launching its first eGPU enclosure at CES, targeting gaming handhelds with a USB-C connection. The iDX6011 and iDX6011 Pro are available for pre-order with early-bird discounts as low as $999.
The question remains: How well do these features work in practice? Will the AI NAS box ingest files and retrieve results quickly enough? Ugreen's integrated design, including aluminum chassis and magnetic mesh air filters, suggests a well-built product. However, the high price and the need to supply your own storage drives may be a significant investment for some.
Will Ugreen's AI NAS live up to the hype? Only time will tell. The early bird discounts make it an attractive option for those eager to explore the future of local AI storage.
