Onju Voice (Nest Mini drop-in PCB)

Quick verdict

Open-source ESP32-S3 drop-in mainboard that recycles a Google Nest Mini shell into a fully local HA voice satellite with working LEDs, touch and mute. The ESP32-S3 board runs ESPHome and the HA Assist pipeline locally, severing all Google cloud ties. Just note: Maker/crowdfunding board, not a finished retail product.

Notes last checked Jun 2, 2026.

Compatibility snapshot

Why it stands out

• Reuses existing Nest Mini hardware and speaker
• Replicates LEDs, touch and mute in ESPHome
• Completely de-Googled and local

Reasons to hesitate

• Maker/crowdfunding board, not a finished retail product
• Requires disassembling a Nest Mini and flashing
• Availability is intermittent

Best for

• Repurposing old Nest Minis
• Privacy-focused DIYers

Avoid if

• you want a finished, plug-and-play product rather than a DIY/flashing project

Privacy and local-control notes

The ESP32-S3 board runs ESPHome and the HA Assist pipeline locally, severing all Google cloud ties.

Home Assistant support: supported · integration path: ESPHome (community onju-voice-satellite, local).

Built with ESPHome - see the ESPHome guide for Home Assistant →

Buying reality check

Price notes: Around $35. Among the more affordable options in this category.

Compare side by side: see voice assistant comparisons →