ESP32

Espressif's latest ESP32 microcontroller can now boot Linux, putting it close to the capabilities of a Raspberry Pi single-board computer. The development is drawing attention among hobbyists and embedded engineers, who see it as a sign that low-cost microcontrollers are closing the gap with fuller single-board computers for DIY and IoT projects.

A project called ESP-SDR enables raw IQ capture using Espressif's ESP32 chips, effectively repurposing the ubiquitous low-cost Wi-Fi microcontrollers as a software-defined radio. Developed by the Espargos team, it lets hobbyists sample wireless signals directly with inexpensive off-the-shelf hardware. Engineers and radio enthusiasts are discussing the technical achievement, since dedicated SDR hardware normally costs far more than an ESP32 board.

A wearable called the Hypnotize Dress has been introduced as a fashion tech piece that measures the wearer's concentration performance. It is built on the ESP32-S3 microcontroller, combining electronics with clothing. The project highlights a growing interest in wearable technology that goes beyond step counting into tracking cognitive states, though details on sensors and accuracy were not provided.