The Sprout project introduces an open-source hardware solution designed to modernize classic iPod models, specifically the third and fourth generations and the iPod mini. The core of the upgrade is a replacement circuit board that allows users to integrate modern features without permanent modifications, as the process requires no soldering and remains fully reversible.
The entry-level Sprout Pico version is built on the Raspberry Pi RP2350 platform. It adds Bluetooth connectivity for wireless headphones, a USB-C port for digital audio and charging, Wi-Fi support, and storage capacity of up to 2TB via microSD cards. The system expands audio format compatibility to include AAC, ALAC, FLAC, and Opus, while also enabling podcast management.
The advanced Sprout Pi version incorporates a Raspberry Pi Compute Module Zero. This hardware enables AirPlay support, custom application execution, and streaming capabilities for services like Spotify and Apple Music. The developers have created a custom operating system that retains the iconic Click Wheel interface while adding modern functionality, including status displays for connected devices.
Beyond music playback, the upgraded devices can run simple applications such as a calculator, the MacPaint drawing tool, and the game Crash Bandicoot. The project is currently open for user registration, though the development team has not yet disclosed pricing or an official release date for the hardware kits.
