Show HN: A replacement motherboard for the iPod mini, 3G and 4G

Category: other

Tags: hardware, retrofit, ipod, raspberry-pi, bluetooth

Score: 7.0/10 (Innovation: 8, Technical: 8, Documentation: 6, Utility: 5)

Sprout is a drop-in replacement motherboard for classic iPods (mini, 3G, 4G) that adds Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C audio, and a HiFi DAC. It offers two models: one based on the RP2350 microcontroller for offline playback, and one using a Raspberry Pi Compute Module Zero for streaming and apps. The project is notable for its hardware design, full reversibility, and no-solder installation, reviving vintage devices with modern connectivity.

Target audience: hardware enthusiasts, retro device modders, DIY electronics hobbyists

Repository: https://certainthings.studio/sprout/

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