Arduboy Creator Introduces $149 Digital Candle Powered by AI

Kevin Bates, creator of the Arduboy, has introduced a 10-inch-tall digital candle that uses a custom AI model to simulate a flickering flame across a grid of LEDs. The device is reported to run on an Espressif ESP32-S3 chip powering a neural network trained on footage of an actual candle flame.

Device Specifications and Design

• Dimensions: 10 inches tall
• Display: 144 amber-colored LEDs in a 9-by-16 grid with adjustable brightness
• Power: USB-C port for power supply (rechargeable battery is not included)
• Availability: Offered with a black or white circuit board

Key Features and Open-Source Capabilities

According to reported details, the flame simulation is generated in real-time by the neural network rather than using a pre-programmed looping animation, meaning the output does not repeat.

• Open Source: The hardware is open source, allowing users to repurpose the LED grid.
• Alternative Uses: Owners can potentially program the device to function as a clock, a notification display, or run simulations like Conway’s Game of Life.

Practical Implications and Verification

The digital candle is listed at a price of $149. While it offers a safer alternative to an open flame, reviews note that it may not fully replicate the traditional ambiance of a real candle. Because the device lacks an integrated rechargeable battery, users must keep it plugged into a USB-C power source. Interested buyers can verify availability, specifications, and open-source documentation directly through the creator's official product announcements and release channels.