[Open Source DIY] Building Your Personal AI Assistant with Xiaozhi-ESP32
[Open Source DIY] Building Your Personal AI Assistant with Xiaozhi-ESP32
March 16, 2024
Why This Project Matters?
In the era of AIoT development, Xiaozhi-ESP32 opens new possibilities for smart hardware development with these unique advantages:
- 💡 Low-Cost Entry: Start with just an ESP32 board (~$10)
- 🔒 Privacy First: Local processing keeps voice data secure
- 🛠️ High Extensibility: Supports various sensors and actuators
- 🎓 Learning Platform: Complete open-source code + detailed docs
Core Features Overview
1. Smart Voice Interaction
- Offline voice recognition (Chinese/English)
- TTS voice feedback
- Custom wake words
2. Smart Home Hub
// Example: Voice-controlled LED
void handleCommand(String cmd) {
if(cmd.indexOf("turn on light") >=0) {
digitalWrite(LED_PIN, HIGH);
speak("Light turned on");
}
// ... other commands
}
3. Hardware Expansion Matrix
Sensor Type | Functionality |
---|---|
Temp/Humidity | Environment monitoring |
PIR Motion | Security & presence detection |
Motor Driver | Smart curtain control |
Quick Start Guide (Hardware)
Components Needed
- ESP32-WROOM board ×1
- INMP441 microphone ×1
- 0.5W speaker ×1
- Jumper wires
Development Setup in 3 Steps
Install PlatformIO
pio pkg install --library "espressif/esp32-wav-player@^1.0.0"
Clone Repository
git clone https://github.com/78/xiaozhi-esp32.git
Flash Demo Code
void setup() { initVoiceRecognition(); registerCommand("turn on light", LEDControl); // ... more commands }
Application Scenarios
Smart Home Control
- “Xiaozhi, set AC to 25°C”
- “Turn on study room lights”
Voice Memos
- “Remind me about tomorrow’s 3PM meeting”
- “Turn off stove in 10 minutes”
Maker Education
Modify config.h
for customization:
// config.h
#define WAKE_WORD "Xiaozhi" // Custom wake word
#define MAX_COMMANDS 20 // Max command capacity
Feature Comparison
Aspect | Commercial Solutions | Xiaozhi-ESP32 |
---|---|---|
Cost per Unit | $70+ | $10-$15 |
Response Time | 200-500ms | <100ms |
Data Privacy | Cloud-based | Local processing |
Customization | Closed system | Fully open-source |
Start Creating!
Perfect for:
- IoT rapid prototyping
- University projects
- Maker workshops
- Home automation
Your smart life starts with “Xiaozhi”!
Project URL: https://github.com/78/xiaozhi-esp32
Next: 《Adding Custom Skills to Xiaozhi-ESP32》

Xiaozhi-ESP32 in Action