Design students and faculty from the Catholic University of Luis Amigó in Manizales, Colombia, participated in an innovative workshop that brings together creativity and artificial intelligence (AI) through the use of the XIAO ESP32S3 Sense device from Seeed Studio. The workshop, led by Gabriel Alejandro Giraldo, Seeed Studio Ranger, showcased how this open-source hardware tool enables design professionals to experiment with AI and rapid prototyping, transforming ideas into interactive solutions.

The XIAO ESP32S3 Sense—a compact yet competent device—was the focal point of this event. Participants explored how to deploy both predefined and custom vision AI models using the SenseCraft AI platform, allowing them to work with visual recognition technology in an accessible and effective way. This combination of hardware and software empowers designers to transform concepts into interactive visual experiences and quickly develop prototypes of real products.

During the workshop, the SenseCAP Watcher, Seeed Studio’s innovative physical AI assistant, was introduced. Configured to greet and thank each attendee upon identification, the SenseCAP Watcher sent real-time notifications to organizers via the SenseCraft app. This demonstration showed participants how AI can be integrated into design projects to create interactive, engaging, and personalized user experiences.

The workshop also highlighted the importance of adopting AI in design, emphasizing that this technology does not replace human creativity but enhances it by automating repetitive tasks and facilitating real-time experimentation with visual ideas. Vision AI and rapid prototyping with AI offer designers opportunities to develop intelligent products that respond to their surroundings and improve user experiences.

This event marks a milestone in design education, demonstrating how advanced, accessible, open-source technology like the XIAO ESP32S3 Sense can enrich students’ learning and open new frontiers for creativity in design on a global scale.