Meta Opens Muse To Diy Hardware Projects

Meta has released open-source code for developers to build Muse-powered gadgets and is offering a limited run of its own smart-home device.

Meta has introduced Muse Gadgets, an open-source project that lets developers connect its Muse AI agent to hardware they build themselves. The company is releasing firmware and a Linux software development kit, according to TechCrunch and Engadget, and has made a smart-home device called Muse Home Link to demonstrate the idea.

Table of Contents
  1. Developers can build around Muse
  2. Meta’s own gadget connects Muse to the home
  3. A new route for Muse developers
  4. Sources

Developers can build around Muse

Meta suggests several starting points: a color E Ink display for reminders, an HDMI stick that puts Muse on a TV, or a small touchscreen accessory. The Verge says the touchscreen concept resembles Meta’s Muse Charm, while Engadget describes Charm as a dedicated device for talking to the agent.

The project is not limited to those examples. Developers can use an off-the-shelf ESP32 board or a Raspberry Pi and connect Muse to displays, buttons, sensors and other components, according to The Verge. TechCrunch reports that Meta has also opened a Discord channel for people working on Muse Gadgets. The Verge notes that Meta warns builders to proceed at their own risk.

Meta’s own gadget connects Muse to the home

Meta has built 5,000 Muse Home Link units, according to reports citing Nat Friedman, head of product at Meta’s Superintelligence Labs. The USB-C-powered device connects Muse to a home network so it can communicate with compatible devices, including speakers and TVs. The Verge says community-built skills could let Muse perform tasks such as switching on a light, controlling a TV or sending a document to a printer, depending on the home setup.

The outlets describe the giveaway and timing somewhat differently. TechCrunch, citing Friedman, says the units are free for Muse subscribers while supplies last and would be ready to ship in a few weeks. The Verge says people can join a waitlist ahead of shipping sometime in October. Engadget also reports that the 5,000 devices are being given to Muse subscribers.

A new route for Muse developers

For developers and hardware hobbyists, Muse Gadgets provides a way to test how the agent works beyond a standalone chatbot or a device designed by Meta. Engadget says it is unclear whether Meta has broader plans for the project, though hobbyists’ creations could help inform its hardware efforts.

The release also comes as Meta expands where Muse can be used. TechCrunch reports that the company introduced Muse for Small Business, which connects the agent to services including Shopify, Dropbox and Slack, and launched a business unit to bring its AI offerings to corporate customers. The reports do not identify hiring plans tied to Muse Gadgets.

Sources

This story was compiled by AI from the reports below. Read the originals for the full details.