PidginTranslator

Handheld translator for Nigerian languages. No internet needed for common phrases, YarnGPT for everything else.

A pocket-sized translation device built specifically for communication gaps in Nigeria. Supports English, Nigerian Pidgin, Yoruba, and Igbo with offline phrase database and online AI backup.

The Problem

Try using Google Translate in a Nigerian market. First, you need internet (good luck). Second, it doesn't understand "How much be this?" or "I no fit pay dat price." Third, reading translations off your phone while negotiating looks sketchy.

Tourists, expats, and even Nigerians traveling between language regions need something that:

• Works offline for common phrases
• Understands Nigerian context and slang
• Fits in your pocket
• Has audio playback (not everyone can read)
• Doesn't require pulling out an expensive phone

Hardware Design

3D Enclosure

PCB Layout

Schematics

Features

• 3.5" Touchscreen - Tap to select language and phrase
• Native Audio - Hear the translation pronounced correctly
• Offline Database - 5,000+ common phrases work without internet
• YarnGPT Integration - Connect to WiFi for complex translations
• Dual Mode - Offline-first, online when needed
• Long Battery Life - 12+ hours usage (3000mAh)

How It Works

Offline Mode (Default)

1. Select source language (English/Pidgin/Yoruba/Igbo)
2. Browse categories: Greetings, Shopping, Directions, Food, etc.
3. Tap a phrase to hear native speaker pronunciation

Online Mode (WiFi)

1. Type or speak custom phrase
2. Device connects to YarnGPT API for context-aware translation
3. Plays audio + shows text

Technical Details

Firmware (ESP32)

• Platform: ESP-IDF
• UI Framework: LVGL
• Storage: LittleFS
• Audio: I2S (MAX98357A)

Hardware Components

• MCU: ESP32-S3-WROOM-1
• Display: 3.5" ILI9488 Touch LCD
• Audio: MAX98357A Amp + 3W Speaker
• Power: 18650 Battery + TP4056 Charger

Project Structure

PidginTranslator/
├── firmware/          # ESP32 source code
├── hardware/          # PCB and enclosure designs
│   ├── schematics/    # KiCad schematics
│   ├── pcb/           # KiCad PCB layout
│   └── case/          # OpenSCAD/STL case files
├── assets/            # Translation database
└── docs/              # Documentation

License

MIT License - See LICENSE file