nest-audio-pcb is an open-source printed circuit board (PCB) designed to replace the original PCB inside Google Nest Audio speakers. This replacement board includes Home Assistant integration, making it easier to control your smart speaker within your home automation setup.
If your Google Nest Audio device is no longer working, or if you want to upgrade its capabilities with an open-source solution, nest-audio-pcb provides a direct swap. It fits right into your Nest Audio’s casing and works with the existing speakers and hardware.
- Direct Replacement: Fits exactly inside Google Nest Audio without modifications.
- Home Assistant Friendly: Easily connects to Home Assistant for smart home control.
- Open Source: Designed with open-source hardware tools, fully documented.
- Custom Firmware Support: Runs on ESP32 microcontroller with ESPhome compatibility.
- DIY Electronics Friendly: Created for users comfortable with basic electronics assembly.
- Smart Speaker Integration: Retains voice assistant functions via XMOS chip.
- Improved Reliability: Uses modern components for lasting performance.
Before starting, ensure you have the following:
- A Google Nest Audio speaker (original hardware).
- Basic soldering skills and tools.
- A Windows, Mac, or Linux computer with internet access.
- USB-to-serial adapter to program the ESP32 chip on the new PCB.
- Home Assistant installed on your home network to make full use of smart features (optional but recommended).
- Stable power supply for the Nest Audio (original power adapter).
No programming or advanced electronics knowledge is required, but some patience with hardware assembly will help.
Click the big button below to visit the official release page and download the latest PCB design files, firmware, and instructions:
-
Click the link above or visit:
https://github.com/spandit69/nest-audio-pcb/releases -
Scroll to the latest release. The files usually include:
- PCB design files (KiCad format).
- Firmware files for the ESP32 module.
- Step-by-step instructions PDF for assembly and installation.
-
Click the assets to download. Look for folders or ZIP files that include the PCB schematics and firmware binaries.
- PCB Design Files: Can be sent to any PCB manufacturer to create the physical board.
- Firmware: Precompiled files to load onto the ESP32 chip on the PCB.
- Instructions: Clear guides for hardware assembly, flashing firmware, and setup.
- Configuration Examples: Templates for integrating the PCB with Home Assistant through ESPhome.
- Either order the PCB from a manufacturer using the provided design files, or check if a pre-assembled board is available.
- Ensure all electronic components are soldered correctly, including the ESP32 microcontroller.
- Connect the USB-to-serial adapter to your computer.
- Attach the adapter to the ESP32 pins as shown in the instructions.
- Use a simple flashing tool (detailed in the manual) to upload the firmware file.
- The firmware enables communication between the PCB and your home automation system.
- Carefully open your Nest Audio speaker.
- Remove the original PCB, keeping the speaker and power cables intact.
- Install the new nest-audio-pcb in the same place.
- Reconnect all cables as shown in the assembly guide.
- If you use Home Assistant, follow the integration guide in the instructions.
- The ESP32 board with ESPhome will appear as a device ready for control.
- Use the Home Assistant dashboard to manage the smart speaker functions.
- If the Nest Audio does not power on after replacement, double-check cable connections and power supply.
- For issues flashing firmware, confirm the correct COM port and driver installation on your computer.
- If Home Assistant does not detect the device, verify your network configuration and ESP32 Wi-Fi settings.
- Consult the GitHub Issues page in case others have found fixes for similar problems.
For detailed technical explanations, PCB schematics, and advanced customization, visit the GitHub repository:
https://github.com/spandit69/nest-audio-pcb
You can contribute by:
- Offering feedback or reporting bugs.
- Sharing your custom firmware configurations.
- Helping improve documentation.
- Designing improved versions of the PCB.
See the repository’s CONTRIBUTING.md for guidelines.
If you need help or want to ask questions:
- Open an issue on the GitHub repository.
- Join the community forums related to DIY smart home electronics.
- Follow updates and announcements on the repo’s main page.
nest-audio-pcb is released under an open-source hardware license, meaning you can freely use, modify, and share the PCB design and software while respecting the license terms detailed in the repository.