The series of articles by Adam Conway discusses how the author replaced cloud-based smart assistants like Alexa with a local large language model (LLM) integrated into Home Assistant, enabling more complex and private home automations.
1. **Use a Local LLM**: Set up an LLM (like Qwen) locally using tools such as Ollama and OpenWeb UI.
2. **Integrate with Home Assistant**:
- Enable Ollama integration in Home Assistant.
- Configure the IP and port of the LLM server.
- Select the desired model for use within Home Assistant.
3. **Voice Processing Tools**:
- Use **Whisper** for speech-to-text transcription.
- Use **Piper** for text-to-speech synthesis.
4. **Smart Home Automation**:
- Automate complex tasks like turning off lights and smart plugs with voice commands.
- Use data from IP cameras (via Frigate) to control external lighting based on presence.
5. **Hardware Recommendations**:
- Use Home Assistant Voice Preview speaker or DIY alternatives using ESP32 or repurposed microphones.
This article details the creation of a "Now Playing" display for a record player using an ESP32 microcontroller. It leverages a microphone, Shazam API (via Shazamio Python library), and MQTT to identify and display the currently playing track. The project involves hardware setup with a Waveshare display and software development in ESPHome.
Here are the steps I took to convert the plugs from Tuya to Tasmota to ESPHome: