Do I need to own Bitcoin to use this?
No. You can enter savings, real estate, stocks, or any mix of assets in USD, EUR, GBP, CHF, CAD, or AUD, each with its own growth rate. Bitcoin is supported, but not required.
Is it accurate?
It is a thoughtful estimate, not a promise. The Details screen shows the assumptions behind the result: real return, spend rate, and whether the portfolio appears self-sustaining.
What does FOREVER mean?
FOREVER means the model did not deplete the portfolio because real annual return covers annual spend under the assumptions you entered. Nice word. Still just a model.
Where does my data go?
The browser calculator runs in your tab. The device is designed for local Wi-Fi. The only external request in BTC mode is a live price lookup.
I cannot code. Can I still build it?
Yes. The plain path is Arduino IDE, Heltec Vision Master E290, USB-C, upload, configure. The build guide keeps the steps boring, which is a feature.
Why not just an app on my phone?
Because phones are noisy. Freedom Clock is meant to be glance-able and physically present without becoming another feed.
What is the motivational quote mode?
Between updates, the e-ink screen can show short quotes about time, attention, and enough. You can edit the library or turn it off.
Is Freedom Clock a Bitcoin retirement calculator?
It can be used as one. It supports Bitcoin and fiat assets together, plus sell monthly, borrow, and borrow-then-sell spend models.
What hardware does the desk device run on?
The current build targets the Heltec Vision Master E290 e-ink board, a 3.7 V Li-Po battery, and a USB-C cable. The total parts cost is around $30.