Sprout Pi Adds Bluetooth, Streaming and USB-C to Your Old iPod

There is an entire cottage industry of iPod mods, but the Sprout Pi and Sprout Pico are two of the few complete motherboard replacements that combine many of the most popular modifications into a single upgrade. Both versions add Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C, a microSD card slot, FLAC playback and more. And while opening a […]

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This iPod replacement motherboard adds modern conveniences, but streaming might miss the point.

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There's a whole cottage industry of iPod mods out there, but the Sprout Pi and Sprout Pico are two of the few complete motherboard replacements that combine many of the most popular mods into a single upgrade. Both versions add Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C, a microSD card slot, FLAC playback, and more. And while opening an iPod will never be scary, at least the Sprout doesn't require soldering.

The firmware enables audio via USB for wired headsets as well as via the original 3.5mm jack. Plus, Bluetooth support lets you connect to AirPods or your favorite UE party speaker. Wi-Fi enables Google Cast and AirPlay streaming, as well as podcast downloading, which is a nice touch. The higher-end Sprout Pi also supports streaming via Spotify and Apple Music, plus apps, which, to be honest, kind of misses the point. iPods are popular again precisely because they take you away from the algorithm and limit distractions.

The Sprout Pi only works with the 3rd and 4th generation iPod and iPod mini, which limits its appeal somewhat. The project will soon launch a crowdfunding campaign through Crowd Supply, but has yet to announce a price.

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