Development Story

Version 1 - The Beginning

2022

The first version of ENDGAME was a proof of concept. It was a basic wearable device featuring a single-core ESP32 CE MCU and a simple 2-line display. This prototype was designed to test connectivity and serve as a foundation for inspiration. It marked the beginning of our journey to create a fully open-source wearable.

Version 2 - Modular Design

Late 2022

This iteration utilized a ready-made ESP32 Lite board with a custom extension PCB mounted on top. It featured an I2C connection for the 2.42-inch OLED display and an analog PS2 joystick for input. This version served as a testing platform for key features including navigation, notifications, and remote control for audio playback. Additionally, this version was instrumental in testing the extended mobile application software, establishing robust communication protocols between the device and smartphones. This milestone significantly improved both the device's software architecture and the communication framework.

Version 3 - First Custom PCB

Early 2023

Version 3 marked our first attempt at designing a custom PCB for the ESP32-S3 MCU. The board featured two buttons, a 5-button joystick, and a 7-pin connector for the 2.42" OLED display. Additionally, it included two external connectors for tactile navigation. While this version had no onboard sensors, it featured essential components including a JST battery connector, USB Type-C interface, and an on/off slider switch. This prototype was crucial in learning PCB design and layout optimization.

Version 4 - Display Upgrade & PCB Evolution

Mid 2023

A major redesign featuring a new 24-pin FPC connector for easy display swapping. The PCB was upgraded to 4 layers, significantly improving thermal efficiency and allowing for more sensors. New additions included a magnetometer and an SD card slot (later removed as it was primarily used for debugging). This version laid the groundwork for our modular approach to hardware design.

Version 5 - Current Release

2024 - Present

The latest and most advanced iteration of ENDGAME represents a significant leap forward in wearable technology. At its heart lies the LSM6DSOX IMU featuring built-in AI functions, enabling comprehensive gesture recognition and an energy-efficient pedometer that sets new standards for power management.

This version introduces several key refinements: we removed the SD card slot after determining it wasn't essential for core functionality, streamlined the interface by eliminating the second button (the joystick and top button now handle all UI functions), and added a custom ESP-protected Pogo-pin-enabled I2C slot for seamless hardware expansion.

The dual-LED system (one RGB for notifications, one bright white for illumination) works in harmony with the integrated light sensor to automatically adjust display brightness and enable gesture-controlled light assistance in dark conditions.

We intentionally picked the most available ready-made components for maximum flexibility. Add any custom battery and any 24-pin SSD1306 OLED display, and you are good to go. This plug-and-play approach allows you to customize the device as easily and uniquely as you wish.

With improved power management, a refined user interface, and robust connectivity options, Version 5 is production-ready and represents the culmination of years of iterative development - this is the version we're proud to share with the open-source community.

Version 6 - Vision for the Future

Beyond 2025