Code by Voice! micro:bit EN

micro:bit Coding Companion Extension is a powerful browser add-on designed to enhance your experience with Microsoft MakeCode for micro:bit by integrating an intelligent AI assistant directly into your coding environment. Tailored for educators, students, and hobbyists, this extension harnesses Google's Gemini generative language API, enabling you to convert natural language commands into corresponding micro:bit MakeCode blocks. Whether you aim to create simple LED displays or develop more sophisticated sensor-based projects, the extension allows interaction with MakeCode through plain English or Korean instructions, delivering an intuitive, responsive, and personalized coding companion.

Once installed, the extension adds a subtle heart-shaped floating action button (FAB) on MakeCode.microbit.org pages. By clicking this button, users open a smart panel that is always ready to receive and interpret instructions. Simply input your desired function—such as "Make the micro:bit light up when tilted"—and the request is securely sent to Google Gemini. The response arrives as well-constructed block code that is seamlessly injected into your MakeCode workspace, enabling immediate experimentation and development. The design supports educators by allowing them to safely manage Gemini API keys locally within the extension, facilitating classroom use without exposing sensitive credentials.

The micro:bit Coding Companion additionally offers flexibility with automatic AI-generated code solutions and a step-wise dictation mode, which guides users through the block insertion process for clearer learning pathways. The interface adapts automatically to English or Korean based on your browser settings, ensuring accessibility and comfort. Real-time feedback mechanisms help users understand any issues such as errors or API limitations, complemented by helpful hints and detailed instructional messages for newcomers and advanced users alike. The extension adopts a privacy-first approach, with all API keys and user prompts stored exclusively in the browser's local storage. Apart from the necessary code generation requests sent to Google Gemini, no personal identifiers, student information, or contact data are collected or transmitted, and the extension provides clear guidance to prevent the inclusion of personal data in user prompts.

The responsive popup and panel allow smooth navigation between your MakeCode projects, settings, and the extension interface, fostering a creative, accessible, and secure environment for physical computing exploration. The micro:bit Coding Companion empowers teachers to facilitate coding lessons effortlessly and supports learners to engage deeply with microcontroller programming in a friendly, assisted manner.

Key Features:
- Conversational Code Generation: Convert natural language prompts like "make a countdown timer" directly into functional MakeCode blocks for micro:bit.
- Direct MakeCode Integration: A convenient floating heart-shaped button on MakeCode.microbit.org provides quick access to AI-powered coding assistance.
- Dual Modes: Select between automatic AI code generation for quick solutions or dictation mode for step-by-step block insertion.
- Secure API Key Management: Teachers and power users can safely store and update Google Gemini API keys within the extension’s local environment.
- Language Adaptivity: The extension detects browser language settings, toggling automatically between English and Korean interfaces.
- Real-Time Feedback: Receive timely messages on errors, API call limits, or complex code transformation challenges.
- Privacy-Focused Onboarding: Clear user guidance prevents entry of personal data; all sensitive data stays local except for code requests to Google Gemini.

How It Works:
1. Install the micro:bit Coding Companion extension in your browser and navigate to MakeCode.microbit.org.
2. Click the heart-shaped floating button in the bottom-right corner to open the AI companion panel.
3. Enter a valid Gemini API key, typically provided by your teacher or administrator, to activate AI-powered features.
4. Type your project instructions in plain English or Korean—for example, describing the desired micro:bit behavior.
5. Choose “Auto mode” for instant AI-generated block code or “Dictate mode” for guided block insertion.
6. Review the generated block code and accept it to have it automatically inserted into your MakeCode workspace.
7. Customize settings to manage API keys, adjust language preferences, or access privacy information and troubleshooting tips.

Privacy: - API keys and user prompts are stored only locally in your browser’s extension storage. User inputs are transmitted solely to Google Gemini for code generation purposes. No personal identifiers such as names, student IDs, or contact details are collected or processed by the extension. See the privacy guidance available within the extension’s settings for more information.