Meta has open-sourced Muse, its AI agent, letting anyone build their own smart gadgets by programming a Raspberry Pi or ESP32 board and connecting it to displays, buttons, and sensors. Users can create devices like E Ink reminders, HDMI sticks for big screens, or DIY versions of Meta's Muse Charm touchscreen device.
Meta is also distributing 5,000 Muse Home Link gadgets, a ready-made device that uses community-built skills to control home devices—turning lights on, controlling TVs, or sending documents to printers. People can join a waitlist now, with shipping scheduled for this month. Meta warns users to "proceed at your own risk" when building their own versions.
Who this reaches and what it means
- Older students and tech hobbyists can learn hardware programming and AI integration through hands-on projects with Raspberry Pi or ESP32.
- Families interested in smart home automation have access to free or low-cost alternatives to commercial AI gadgets through community-built skills.
- Teachers could use Muse as a tangible way to teach AI concepts, though setup requires technical knowledge and comfort with open-source tools.
Before building or requesting a device
- Join the Muse Home Link waitlist now if interested in the free gadget, as only 5,000 units are available and shipping begins this month.
- Review Meta's open-source documentation and sample projects to assess whether your technical skills match the complexity of building a custom device.