Swift for Embedded Linux with WendyOS

Swift is an excellent language for a variety of new platforms. From iOS and Android apps, to Cloud infrastructure, and Embedded Devices. In this workshop, we'll combine the power of Cloud Infrastructure with local Embedded devices using WendyOS.

WendyOS is an open-source operating system designed for physical devices. You'll go from concept to working prototype in a single session. Whether it's a security camera that recognizes faces, a smart speaker that understands voice commands, or a sensor hub that makes intelligent decisions: you'll build it yourself, and it will be yours.

In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn how to build apps that run entirely on local hardware - powered by Swift. Using Swift and Wendy, you can rapidly prototype your hardware ideas, validate them, and make them a reality. Whether for hobby or production.

What you'll learn

Fundamentals

• Understand how to build Linux applications in Swift, and run them on your device. We'll guide you through common patterns and useful libraries to make your journey a success.

Computer Vision

• Process video feeds in real-time. Detect objects, recognize faces, and trigger actions—all locally.

Deployment & Updates

• Ship apps to your devices locally or remotely, using the same tools and techniques.

Build What Excites You

Smart Security Camera — Face recognition, motion detection, and intelligent alerts—without sending footage to the cloud.

Personal Voice Assistant — A HomePod-like device that actually respects your privacy. Offline-capable, customizable, and truly yours.

Intelligent Doorbell — Know who's at your door before you answer. Package detection, familiar face recognition, custom notifications.

Pet Monitor — Track your pets, dispense treats, and get activity insights—all running on a tiny, affordable device.

Or bring your own idea—we'll help you scope it for the workshop.

What to Bring

Prerequisites

• Mac running the latest public version of macOS OR a Linux machine with Swiftly and the latest Swift.org opensource toolchain
• Intermediate Swift knowledge — no server or embedded knowledge required
• Curiosity about hardware, AI, or building products that exist in the physical world
• No embedded systems or ML experience required—we'll teach you everything you need

Required Setup (Do This Before Arrival)

• Wendy Tools installed: https://wendy.sh/docs/installation/developer-machine-setup/
• Pro Tip: Download and install everything before you arrive. Hotel and zoo WiFi can be slow, and we want you to jump right into building AI-powered edge devices!

What's Provided

• Development board
• Peripherals for hands-on exercises