There’s an entire cottage industry of iPod mods out there, but Sprout Pi and Sprout Pico are two of the few full 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 cracking open an iPod will never not be intimidating, at least the Sprout doesn’t require any soldering.
The firmware allows audio over USB for wired headsets, as well as over the original 3.5mm jack. Plus, Bluetooth support lets you connect to your AirPods or favorite UE party speaker. Wi-Fi enables Google Cast and AirPlay streaming, as well as podcast downloads, which is a nice touch. The higher-end Sprout Pi also supports streaming via Spotify and Apple Music, plus apps, which, honestly, kind of misses the point. iPods are popular again exactly because they get you away from the algorithm and limit distractions.
Sprout Pi will only work with 3rd- and 4th-generation iPods and iPod mini, which will limit its appeal somewhat. The project will launch a crowdfunding campaign soon through Crowd Supply, but it has yet to announce a price.