Intel advertises Phi as regular x86 instruction set so I would assume it is the same or similar as multicore x86 development. I would assume it would be easier to deal with it than networked distributed computing.
You know, someone needs to redesign the Cat5/6 plug and cables. They are too friggin big. It should be 1/5 the size.
Weekend Project: Build your own supercomputer by Darien Graham-Smith | Friday 29 June 2012 http://www.pcauthority.com.au/Feature/306972,weekend-project-build-your-own-supercomputer.aspx
I see no reason to buy a traditional pad anymore. Get the new RPi 3, install a 7" touchscreen display (the RPI attaches to the back) with Windows 10 IoT and you actually have a computer that is also a notepad. God I wished someone would make a matte screen!
Add the power supply and you end up with a rather bulky device. I have a Raspberry Pi and it's no replacement for any other device - it's good for DIY projects only. I also have an Arduino Nano and UNO, which I program using the Raspberry Pi.
Wireless power is around the corner, especially for a device that draws ~5 watts. I don't know why the RPi can't be made to run on a nice battery.