How to build your own AI voice assistant with a Raspberry Pi

AI-based voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant have become staples of the digital ecosystem. However, these services are cloud-based and often collect user data. What if you want your own locally-running, privacy-respecting voice assistant—powered by a Raspberry Pi?

This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to build your own AI voice assistant using a Raspberry Pi mini computer. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced user, this project offers a great opportunity to learn and expand your home automation setup.

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Why build your own AI assistant?

• Privacy-focused: No audio is sent to third-party servers.

• Customizable: Define your own commands and functions.

• Offline operation: No internet connection required for day-to-day use.

• Cost-effective: A Raspberry Pi and USB mic are sufficient.

• Educational value: Great for learning about AI, IoT, and programming.

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Required components

• Raspberry Pi 4 or 5 (2GB RAM minimum recommended)

• microSD card (at least 16 GB, Class 10)

• USB microphone or ReSpeaker HAT

• Speaker (3.5 mm jack, USB, or Bluetooth)

• Keyboard, mouse, and monitor (for setup)

• Stable internet connection (for installation)

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Step 1: Prepare the Raspberry Pi

• Install Raspberry Pi OS using the Raspberry Pi Imager

• Update the system:

  sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y


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Step 2: Configure audio input/output

• Check USB microphone detection:

  arecord -l


• Test audio output:

  speaker-test


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Step 3: Install Mycroft AI (open-source voice assistant)

• Install:

  git clone https://github.com/MycroftAI/mycroft-core.git
cd mycroft-core
bash dev_setup.sh


• Register your device at Mycroft Home and pair it.

• Start Mycroft:

  ./start-mycroft.sh all


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Step 4: Offline mode – Precise wake word and Vosk speech-to-text

• Precise – Wake word detection engine

  • You can train a custom wake word.

• Vosk – Offline speech-to-text engine

  • Install:

    pip install vosk


• Integrate Vosk with Mycroft by modifying the mycroft.conf file.

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Step 5: Develop custom commands (“skills”)

• Create a new skill:

  msm create my-first-skill


• Customize features: weather info, MQTT smart home control, calendar sync, and more.

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Alternatives to Mycroft

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Tips for effective use

1. Use a quality microphone – to reduce background noise

2. Set a custom wake word – for a personalized experience

3. Add physical feedback – like LED rings or chimes

4. Schedule heavy tasks – e.g., fetch weather hourly

5. Integrate with Home Assistant – to control smart home devices

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FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Does it work in Hungarian?
Vosk offers a Hungarian model. Mycroft itself does not officially support Hungarian yet.

Is internet required?
Yes, for installation. Daily use can be offline if configured properly.

Is it secure?
Fully offline systems never send data out, offering strong privacy.

Can I use a Raspberry Pi Zero?
Technically yes, but performance is limited. Pi 3 or higher is recommended.

Creating your own AI voice assistant with a Raspberry Pi is not only fun and educational, but also privacy-conscious. Whether you’re just starting or have advanced tech skills, this project is a great gateway into AI, speech recognition, and home automation.