UpdateMate is an open-source, low-power ePaper tablet designed for tinkerers, developers, and DIY enthusiasts.
Built around the ESP32 microcontroller, it offers a customizable platform for displaying relevant, distraction-free information — from weather forecasts and calendar events to news, sensor data, and more.
 3D View of Tablet |
 3D View of PCB |
 Exploded View (Top) |
 Exploded View (Bottom) |
- 🖥️ 7.5-inch black-and-white ePaper display from Waveshare
- ⚡ Low power consumption with deep sleep support
- 🧩 Rich peripheral support: sensors, SD card, RTC, fuel gauge, and more
- 🔧 Designed for customization: easily add your own widgets, components, or software
- 📖 eBook and tablet replacements
- 🏡 Smart home dashboards
- 🌦️ Always-on weather/news displays
- 📅 Personal productivity boards
- 📡 IoT project front-ends
- 🧪 Educational embedded systems kits
The main components in the tablet
| Component | Interface | Description | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| ESP32-C6-WROOM-1-N4 | MCU | Main microcontroller | Mouser |
| 7.5" Waveshare ePaper | SPI | Black-and-white e-paper display | Waveshare |
| MicroSD Card Socket | SPI | For storage and data logging | TME |
| W25Q512JVEIQ NOR Flash | SPI | 64 MB external flash memory | Mouser |
| MAX17048 Fuel Gauge | I2C | Battery voltage and state-of-charge monitor | Mouser |
| BME680 Sensor Board | I2C | Environmental sensor (temp, humidity, gas) | Mouser |
| DS3231SN RTC | I2C | Real-time clock with temperature compensation | Mouser |
Pictures with the features already implemented on the tablet.
 Main Page View |
 eBook Page View |
 Stock Page View |
 News Page View |
 App Launcher View |
 PCB inside case |
The repository is structured into two main sections:
- Autodesk Fusion 360 design files for the custom PCB
- 3D model files for the full tablet case, including STL/STEP formats for printing or editing
- Schematics and layout files for manufacturing the board
- Arduino sketches for individual components (e.g. display, sensors, Wi-Fi, etc.) for testing
- Full firmware implementation for the UpdateMate tablet, enabling all features shown in the gallery (weather, news, stocks, calendar, eBooks)
Enjoy tinkering!