They have not built any trust with the people, but have convinced enough investors to cough up $100 million (If I remember correctly). They will need to come up with a far better device or service than this one to convince me that this is something more than just a cheesy gimmick.
Are they serious? A Raspberry PI with a command line interface?
If I am missing something please tell me because I just don't understand what 21 inc. are trying to achieve that is actually good for the consumer.
The more cynical view is that this is merely another step on the way to BIG money. Not silly stuff like Bitcoin, but IPO Money! They might well be able to really spin a convincing story melding Bitcoin with IoT, both of which could be really hot topics. Maybe they could somehow tie it to Facebook for additional pizazz!!!
I can't claim ownership of the IPO money aspect thinking. Just based on their current track record, it really makes sense though.