AIPI-Lite AI Robot
Rayman
Posts: 16,461
First, this thing is $17 on Amazon, so had to get one...
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FQNNVV36?
It is very small, maybe 1.5" by 2".
Second, this thing appears to be remarkably hackable, according to this:
https://www.robertlipe.com/449-2/
So, you could turn this in to a WiFi module for around the same price as actual ESP-32 real one.
This one also has microphone, speaker, case, and display. Plus an RGB LED.
Comments
What is most interesting is the back side...
It has places to solder a serial interface and power to:
Unfortunately, I don't know how to program ESP-32 devices, but I'm sure somebody is out there hacking it right now...
Or, maybe you don't need to hack? Maybe there is already code and/or firmware around to make it into a wifi module ++
For that price, it looks like a very interesting device. Have you tried talking to this thing yet.
As for the ESP-32 part, I think you can use micro python, but I am not sure about that. I am sure somebody will join in.
I am almost tempted to get one, but I will wait and see what you discover.
Ray
You can program ESP devices with the Arduino tool set, or even load MicroPython or CircuitPython into the device (depending on flash size). What would be important to find out is if one of those IO pads will allow you to put the ESP into programming mode.
A few minutes later....
Apparently, you can reprogram the device with MicroPython -- according to a quick search, anyway:
Would probably be good to have full schematic so that you can ensure you have (or can write) libraries needed to give you access to all of the features on the device.
It does seem to work and has internal wake word detection. Unfortunately, the wake word is "computer" and can't be changed without reprogramming. But, looks like API for doing that is "coming soon"...
Problem is have three Alexa devices within earshot of where want to use it, each with one of the available wake words. But, have to check if they've added new ones...
Not sure how long you have had this device, but, have you come to a decision as to the usefulness of this device. What would be your recommendation, at this time.
Ray
Well, it's sorta like a $17 Alexa that you can hack...
As is, it is probably worth the $17 just to have something to talk about...
That's an inexpensive and interesting device. Will send a PM checking on the progress. It seems that just about everything Expressif makes is programmable by Arduino IDE. The M5 group certainly does. I am familiar with the older 8266 core ESP-Launcher board and some M5 Cameras. The link to the article breaking it down is interesting too. There is a reference in this article about the Child Online privacy protection aspect of the toys that may incorporate this kind of device. As with a lot of things out of Chyna that are "connected" make sure it does not call home. And then there is this apparent get your emotional support AI marketing.
