ESPresense

ESPresense is an open-source project for building ESP32-based presence-detection nodes that track devices around a home or other covered space. It offers a lower-cost, simpler-to-deploy alternative to Raspberry Pi-based setups, using device fingerprints and Apple device IRK enrollment to identify trackable devices, including those with private random addresses. The system filters distance measurements to reduce jitter and support more consistent location estimates.

ESPresense supports two distinct ways to use location data. The mqtt_room approach assigns one node to each room for straightforward room-based automations. The Companion approach uses a denser network—typically five to eight or more nodes per floor—to estimate precise X,Y coordinates on a floor plan. Users need one or more compatible ESP nodes, a trackable device such as a supported beacon, phone, or watch, and an MQTT server. Configuration covers Wi-Fi, MQTT, hardware features, scanning, filtering, and counting. Integrations include Home Assistant, Homebridge, and Domoticz. The project also provides firmware updates, setup guidance, calibration advice, and troubleshooting resources.