# Home Assistant launches Connect AUX-2 open hardware bridge for legacy devices

> **Key takeaway:** The Connect AUX-2 is an ESP32-S3 based hardware interface designed to bring legacy audio, serial, and non-smart devices into the Home Assistant ecosystem.

**Published:** 2026-11-11T21:37:58+00:00 
**Source:** Hackster.io News 
**Category:** open-hardware 
**Canonical URL:** https://fosswire.org/news/home-assistant-launches-connect-aux-2-open-hardware-bridge-f.html 

## Summary
Home Assistant has released the Connect AUX-2, an open hardware accessory intended to bridge the gap between modern smart home controllers and older or untrusted hardware. The device serves as a localized interface for equipment that lacks native smart capabilities, has had its cloud services discontinued, or poses privacy risks due to network-connected monitoring features.

By providing physical connection points for serial and audio interfaces, the gadget allows users to control legacy hardware like solar inverters, hi-fi systems, and smart TVs without exposing those devices directly to the internet. The hardware is built around an Espressif ESP32-S3 microcontroller and supports various expansion methods including Z-Wave and RS485 via USB.

## Hardware specifications and connectivity
- **Core Processing:** Powered by an Espressif ESP32-S3 microcontroller featuring 8MB of flash storage and 8MB of pseudo-static RAM (PSRAM).
- **Audio and Networking:** Integrates a Texas Instruments PCM5122 audio chip for 3.5mm analog and optical S/PDIF outputs, alongside a WIZnet W5500 Ethernet controller supporting Power-over-Ethernet (PoE).
- **Wireless Protocols:** Supports single-band 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5 Low Energy (BLE), with the ability to act as a proxy for up to three active BLE device connections.
- **Legacy Interfaces:** Includes two RS232 serial ports for programmatic control of older hardware and a USB Type-A port for peripherals like the ZWA-2 Z-Wave adapter or Waveshare USB-to-RS485 adapters.

## Why it matters
This release promotes hardware sustainability by enabling the continued use of functional but 'dumb' or cloud-dependent electronics. For the open-source community, the fully open nature of the device allows for custom driver development and expanded use cases in local-first home automation.