I'm making a BITZEE

2026-06-11 · Source: Matthew Berman · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Emerging Technologies & Innovation · Depth: Novice, quick

Summary

An individual successfully developed a personalized "Bitzee"-style digital pet using a Raspberry Pi Pico development kit, driven by the commercial toy's \$40 price tag. The project utilized a Pico kit equipped with a touchscreen, buttons, and a joystick, emphasizing its solder-free assembly for ease of use. The author initiated the coding process by prompting Codex, then iteratively refined the pet's functionality and design to meet his son's specific preferences. While the digital pet is operational, the physical enclosure remains unfinished, with future plans to 3D print a custom house for the device. This DIY endeavor provides a cost-effective and customizable alternative to acquiring multiple commercial Bitzee units.

Key takeaway

For creative technologists or parents seeking engaging, cost-effective alternatives to commercial toys, consider utilizing accessible development kits like the Raspberry Pi Pico. You can employ AI coding assistants such as Codex to rapidly prototype initial functionalities, then iterate on the design with user input. This approach allows you to customize projects to exact specifications and significantly reduce costs compared to buying multiple off-the-shelf units.

Key insights

DIY electronics projects can replicate commercial toys cost-effectively using accessible development kits and AI-assisted coding.

Principles

• Iterative design improves project outcomes.
• AI tools can jumpstart coding for hardware.
• Accessible kits simplify electronics assembly.

Method

Acquire a suitable development kit (e.g., Raspberry Pi Pico with peripherals). Use an AI coding assistant (e.g., Codex) for initial code generation. Iterate on the design and functionality based on user feedback.

In practice

• Use Raspberry Pi Pico for interactive projects.
• Employ Codex for rapid prototyping code.
• 3D print custom enclosures for electronics.

Topics

• Raspberry Pi Pico
• DIY Electronics
• AI Code Generation
• Digital Pet
• 3D Printing
• Prototyping

Best for: AI Student, Creative Technologist, Software Engineer

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Matthew Berman.