GoKawiilDeveloper builds open-source Toniebox alternative using ESP32 and NFC tags
A parent with no prior electronics experience built Marelleo, a DIY audio story box that plays a track when a child places a figurine or tag on it, similar to commercial products like the Toniebox, Yoto, and Lunii. The project is open-source, uses an ESP32 microcontroller and RFID tags, and lets users assign their own audio content rather than buying from a locked catalogue. The creator says the project began as frustration with the subscription-like business models of existing story boxes and a long-standing desire to learn electronics hands-on.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The project illustrates a growing DIY and open-source pushback against proprietary children's hardware ecosystems that tie playback to paid content catalogues. By publishing the design, the creator could enable other parents or hobbyists to replicate or adapt the device, potentially reducing reliance on commercial 'closed' story-box platforms. It also reflects a broader maker-movement trend of using affordable microcontrollers like the ESP32 to replicate expensive consumer electronics at low cost.
- Marelleo is an open-source, ESP32-based story box built by a parent with no prior electronics experience.
- It responds to frustration with subscription-style content models used by Toniebox, Yoto, and Lunii.
- The device uses RFID figurines/tags to trigger audio playback, prioritizing fast response over smart-device style computing power.
Source: zebra.rodeo — Founder, 2026-10-27
Published there as: “Show HN: Marelleo, an open-source story box I built for my kids using ESP32”
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