2024 - Raspberry Pi, microphone, speaker, cardboard, screen, OpenAI API 50 x 50 x 30 cm
Babbli is an interactive storytelling toy powered by a large language model that creates dynamic, bilingual stories based on the child’s voice input. Designed to support second language acquisition, Babbli is an adventure companion that accompanies the child through endless stories. The story begins by asking the child what they’d like it to be about, generating an introduction read in two languages. From there, it continues the adventure by asking follow-up questions in both languages, encouraging the child’s input to shape the narrative. The child’s responses—whether in their native or second language—guide the story, allowing for endless imaginative possibilities.
Using the power of the GPT API, natural-sounding voices from ElevenLabs, and a playful mouth animation on an LED screen powered by Arduino, Babbli turns every story into an engaging experience. It speaks through its own little speaker, bringing characters and tales to life. Stories are one of the oldest forms of human communication and they have also been proven effective as a tool in language development in both first and second language learning. Enhancing preschoolers’ reading, speaking, and listening abilities (Isbell et al., 2004).