[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

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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 TypeFunctionality
Temp/HumidityEnvironment monitoring
PIR MotionSecurity & presence detection
Motor DriverSmart 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

  1. Install PlatformIO

    pio pkg install --library "espressif/esp32-wav-player@^1.0.0"
  2. Clone Repository

    git clone https://github.com/78/xiaozhi-esp32.git
  3. 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

AspectCommercial SolutionsXiaozhi-ESP32
Cost per Unit$70+$10-$15
Response Time200-500ms<100ms
Data PrivacyCloud-basedLocal processing
CustomizationClosed systemFully 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

Xiaozhi-ESP32 in Action