JavaScript must be enabled in your browser to access this content. LEGO building blocks are widely regarded as an ingenious toy, yet they have lacked a significant element in recent years. Following the discontinuation of the Mindstorms robotics kits, enthusiasts seeking to infuse their LEGO creations with programming capabilities have faced limitations. The SMART Brick, a new device aimed at filling this void, does not fully cater to the ambitions of most hobbyists. A solution to this has materialized through a Kickstarter campaign initiated by STEMpedia, introducing Quarky Intellio.
Quarky Intellio is a groundbreaking LEGO- and Arduino-compatible kit that empowers users to incorporate AI, AR, and more functionalities into their LEGO projects. This innovative block features LEGO mounts and houses an ESP32-S3 microcontroller, sensors, and interfaces for seamless integration with motors and other electronic components. The module is equipped with an ESP32-S3, a 5-megapixel autofocus camera, a microphone, a speaker, an SD card slot, a TFT display interface, GPIOs, servo ports, and a 1,000 mAh rechargeable battery, expertly combined into a compact unit.
The utilization of the ESP32-S3 in Intellio allows for the execution of edge AI workloads locally, eliminating the necessity for continuous cloud connectivity. On the software front, Intellio caters to users of varying expertise levels. Beginners can engage in block-based programming using PictoBlox, while advanced users can delve into Python or C++ programming via the Arduino IDE, ESP-IDF, or MicroPython. Machine learning models can be developed using PictoBlox’s ML environment or deployed utilizing TensorFlow Lite.
By maintaining compatibility with popular platforms such as Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and ESP32-based boards, as well as an array of servos, sensors, and displays, the module facilitates the implementation of intricate functionalities. Two primary kits are available: the Discovery Kit, introducing AI and AR concepts, and the more advanced Rover Kit, enhancing robotics with motors for autonomous robots.
This Kickstarter campaign is nearing its conclusion. Those interested in accessing rewards starting at $49 are encouraged to act promptly. For extensive details, visit Kickstarter. Hackster.io, an Avnet Community © 2026.
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