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XBee-Compatible WiFi Module — Drop-In Serial-to-WiFi for XBee Shields

The WiFi Bee ESP8266 is a Serial-to-WiFi module in the standard XBee form factor, making it a drop-in replacement for XBee radios in existing shield designs. If you already have an XBee shield on your Arduino or a board with an XBee socket, you can add WiFi connectivity without changing your hardware layout — just swap the radio.

Based on the ESP8266 chip, it supports AT command control over serial and works with 3.3V single-chip systems, making it compatible with Arduino, Raspberry Pi GPIO expanders, and other 3.3V platforms.

Key features

  • XBee form factor: 2mm pitch, standard XBee footprint — fits existing shields and sockets
  • Serial-to-WiFi bridge: AT command interface for any UART-capable MCU
  • 3.3V operation: Compatible with 3.3V logic systems directly
  • Station + AP modes: Connect to networks or host your own access point
  • Compact design: All the power of ESP8266 in a radio-swappable package

Technical specifications

Core Chip ESP8266
Form Factor XBee compatible (2 mm pitch, 20 pins)
Interface UART (AT commands)
WiFi Standard 802.11 b/g/n, 2.4 GHz
Operating Voltage 3.3V
WiFi Modes Station, AP, Station+AP
Compatible Systems Arduino (with XBee shield), Raspberry Pi, 3.3V MCUs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this with a standard Arduino and XBee shield? Yes. If your Arduino has an XBee shield, this module plugs directly into the socket and communicates via AT commands over the serial passthrough.
Does it replace an XBee radio? In terms of physical form factor, yes. Electrically it communicates via UART AT commands over WiFi rather than the XBee's proprietary 802.15.4 protocol.
Is it 5V compatible? No. It runs at 3.3V. Use with a 3.3V-capable XBee shield or add a level shifter.

Build with this board

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Notes from the bench

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