Enhancement Pre-built version of ESPHome firmware

[edwardtfn]

Enhancement Summary

Publish a pre-build version of ESPHome firmware to make it easier for users

Detailed Description

Lots of users are limited on resources on their ESPHome compiler or are not familiar with the whole thing about building firmware, coding (even very basic level), etc.
It would be nice if they can download from the repo the firmware ready to install.

Additional Context

• Inprov and Captive Portal could help here.
• Need a way to update OTA (preferably over HTTPS so it could be downloaded directly from the repo), auto-update, etc.
• How to handle customizations?
• Web portal for when HA isn't available.
• Etc.

[rudgej]

The issue is you need to deal with practical things like WiFi ssid and password.

The panel has set buttons etc that will call set entities that won't match their system

I think you need to be realistic that ha is a tinkerers system

[JBG-brad]

The issue is you need to deal with practical things like WiFi ssid and password.

Just an FYI, Nabu Casa / Esphome / HA have released a standard to make this possible via bluetooth or uart.

https://www.improv-wifi.com/

[edwardtfn]

I've played with Improv and that definitely is an option, but the old captive portal is also a solution, although this one requires more work from users.
My concern right now is more on how they will update firmware and how to handle customizations.