Meta releases code for custom Muse AI gadgets with household controls
Meta has released open-source code enabling users to build their own Muse AI gadgets tailored to their specific needs. The move democratises access to Meta's new AI assistant by allowing hobbyists and developers to create customised hardware implementations using readily available components like ESP32 boards or Raspberry Pi units.
The company has also manufactured a purpose-built device called the Muse Home Link, of which 5,000 units are being given away via waitlist registration this month. Users can connect Muse to various hardware components including displays, buttons, sensors and actuators to control household devices such as lights, televisions and printers using community-built skills. Meta has suggested project ideas including loading Muse onto E Ink displays for reminders or HDMI sticks for larger screens.
- Meta open-sources Muse AI code for users to create custom gadgets
- Company giving away 5,000 Muse Home Link devices via waitlist this month
- Users can add Muse to E Ink displays, HDMI sticks, touchscreens and more
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Meta is a large American technology company known for social media platforms including Facebook and Instagram. It has developed an artificial intelligence assistant called Muse that is designed to help users control household devices such as lights and televisions.
Smart home systems allow people to automate or remotely control various household appliances from a centralised point. Users typically operate these systems through voice commands or a mobile app, and they can improve convenience, potentially reduce energy consumption, or enhance home security.
Access to AI-powered smart home systems has traditionally been limited to devices manufactured by major technology companies. By making Muse available for customisation by developers and hobbyists, Meta is broadening access to the technology and allowing people to adapt it to their specific needs.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Meta's release of open-source code for Muse AI democratises household control technology, reducing corporate lock-in and enabling users to customise systems to their specific needs. This approach fosters innovation through community contributions, allows users to maintain greater privacy through local implementation, and prevents any single company from monopolising smart home control. Open-source development has repeatedly demonstrated its capacity to produce secure, reliable systems when managed responsibly.
The case against
Allowing widespread user implementation of smart home AI creates fragmentation risks, with unvetted code potentially introducing security vulnerabilities across countless household devices. Whilst presented as democratisation, significant technical barriers mean most users cannot meaningfully participate in development or security auditing, overstating actual empowerment. Moreover, Meta's commercial interests remain served through data collection and ecosystem expansion, so the framing of user empowerment warrants scepticism. Professionally maintained, standardised systems may better serve average users' safety and privacy interests.
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Originally published by The Verge as “Meta open sources code to let you make Muse AI gadgets”.