My AI Pin Prototype

David BatesDavid Bates
2 min read

I'm incredibly excited to share a sneak peek at my latest project: an AI-powered pin that's not just a stylish accessory but a tiny, interactive companion. Think Clippy, but way cooler, and hopefully less annoying.

This little fella is still in its early stages, but it's already showing some serious promise. As you can see in the video below, the prototype features a cheerful smiley face displayed on a small, circular screen. It's about the size of a…well, I’ve helpfully included a can of Coke and a banana for scale. You get the idea.

What's really neat is the touch interface I'm developing. A simple touch elicits a reaction from our smiley friend, and a swipe down reveals a settings menu where I can tweak things like volume. There's something undeniably satisfying about interacting with something so small and seeing it respond in real-time.

A Glimpse into the Future (and the Settings Menu)

While the software is still a work in progress, the goal is to create a pin that can answer your questions, provide information, and maybe even offer a bit of witty banter. Imagine having a miniature AI assistant right there on your lapel, ready to assist at a moment's notice! The possibilities are endless, and I’m having a blast exploring them.

Now, without further ado, here’s the video demonstrating the AI pin prototype's character display and touch testing:

As you can see, the touch responsiveness is pretty snappy, and the character animations are starting to come to life. I’m continually tweaking the settings, working on the AI integration, and brainstorming new features. Stay tuned for more updates as this project evolves! Let me know what you think in the comments—I always love hearing your ideas.

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Written by

David Bates
David Bates

David is driven by a passion for discovery and believes that innovation thrives on collaboration and continuous learning. As a recognized thought leader, he contributes to industry advancements through conferences, open-source projects and strategic partnerships. With over 15 years of experience, David has deep expertise in software development, cloud platforms, and designing cutting-edge systems. Known for mentoring fellow technical leaders, he plays a key role in fostering growth and excellence across the organization. Outside of work, David is a hands-on creator, enjoying 3D printing, CNC, laser cutting, and woodworking in the small town of Floyd, VA with his wife and four kids. His love for making reflects his innovative spirit—always exploring and pushing boundaries.