Run the R1 demo

Use this guide when you want to validate the official R1 development baseline before customizing the device, server, or firmware stack.

What you will set up

This baseline bring-up flow covers:

• The sample repository and development assets
• The demo server used by the device workflow
• Device network access and basic operating flow
• Firmware build, flash, and end-to-end verification

Recommended order

1. Run the demo server
2. Configure device network
3. Build and flash firmware
4. Verify the device interaction using the checks below

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

• Python 3.7 or later for running the server-side components
• R1 development board: Contact Agora Sales to purchase the R1 development board jointly developed by Agora and RiseLink. Refer to the BK official documentation to set up your development environment.
• Android device for installing and testing the mobile app
• Third-party AI services: API keys and service endpoints for your chosen Large Language Model (LLM) and Text-to-Speech (TTS) providers
• Agora project credentials: An Agora project with Conversational AI Engine enabled

For project setup instructions, see Enable services.

Get the sample project

1. Clone the Conversational-AI-IOT-Sample repository to your local machine:

   git clone https://github.com/AgoraIO-Community/Conversational-AI-IOT-Sample.git

2. Switch to the bk7258/v2.0.1 branch:

   cd Conversational-AI-IOT-Sample
   git checkout bk7258/v2.0.1

Verify the device demo

After you have configured the server, device network, and firmware:

1. Connect the R1 development board to your computer using a Type-C cable connected to the USB TO UART interface.

2. If this is the first-time setup, press and hold the S1 button for 5 seconds to enter network configuration mode, then finish Wi-Fi setup through the Android app.

3. Short press the Middle button to start a conversation with the AI agent.

4. Short press the Middle button again to end the conversation.

5. If the device enters deep sleep mode after 3 minutes of inactivity, press the RST button to restart.

   Info

   • The USB TO UART interface also charges the battery. The device automatically activates when you connect a battery or data cable.
   • If the programming tool fails to restart the development board automatically, press the RST button to manually restart and restore programming capability.

Related pages

• Run the demo server
• Configure device network
• Build and flash firmware
• Demo server APIs