The ubiquitous LCD (and VFD) modules based on the HD44780 controller IC can require up to 12 lines from the host. This hardware interface Design Idea reduces the connection to just one wire, allowing ...

He ended up building a little doohickey that combined USB C, an LCD display, and a touch interface, all for under a buck. You can check out the video below. The key to this build was the CH32V003 CPU.