# Modernizing Vintage iPods with New Motherboard Swaps Certain Things introduces Sprout, a motherboard upgrade enabling Bluetooth and modern connectivity for classic iPods. - **Source:** [Yanko Design](https://brifing.si/source/41d28791-ef47-4e0b-a40a-2a5efca0c11b) - **Published:** 2026-10-15 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/7f557607-518c-403c-b793-90f6c42d14ec ## The Retro Music Renaissance The iPod is experiencing a resurgence as users seek music ownership without modern digital distractions. While the original hardware remains iconic, it lacks compatibility with modern wireless audio standards like AirPods. Certain Things is addressing this gap by developing Sprout, a replacement motherboard that brings contemporary connectivity to older devices. ## Technical Specifications of Sprout The Sprout board is engineered to fit the 3rd generation, 4th generation, and iPod mini models perfectly. It integrates USB-C charging, Wi-Fi capabilities, and a microSD slot supporting up to 2TB of storage. This massive capacity allows users to carry approximately 500,000 songs, effectively replacing aging hard drives with modern flash. ## Seamless Hardware Integration Installation requires only a screwdriver and a plastic pry tool, preserving the original case, screen, and click wheel. The monochrome LCD is driven natively, maintaining the classic aesthetic while reducing overall weight. Unlike previous mods that required complex soldering, this design prioritizes a clean, invisible upgrade that keeps the nostalgia intact. ## Audio Performance and Connectivity Bluetooth integration enables pairing with modern wireless headphones and speakers. For wired listeners, the board includes a high-quality CS43131-class DAC from Cirrus Logic to ensure superior analog signal conversion. Files can be transferred via drag-and-drop in various formats, including FLAC and ALAC, bypassing the need for the legacy iTunes software. ## Battery Life and Efficiency The 3rd and 4th generation boards are designed to provide 40 hours of continuous Bluetooth playback using a 2,500mAh battery. The iPod mini version targets 20 hours with a 1,200mAh cell. These figures represent a significant improvement for daily use, effectively turning vintage hardware into a reliable, long-lasting portable music player. ## Advanced Features and Streaming The Sprout Pi variant incorporates a Raspberry Pi Compute Module Zero, enabling streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music. Firmware features include the classic Cover Flow interface, search functionality, and podcast support. As of September 2026, these streaming capabilities are considered proofs of concept, with further refinements expected before the official launch. ## Open Source Development Philosophy The project embraces transparency by releasing schematics, board layouts, and bills of materials under the CERN-OHL-S v2 license. Firmware and documentation are provided under MPL-2.0 and CC BY 4.0 respectively. This open approach allows the community to study reverse-engineering notes on the display and click wheel, fostering further independent hardware innovation. ## Market Positioning and Availability Sprout differentiates itself from competitors like the Sudo player by upgrading existing hardware rather than building new devices. While pricing and shipping dates remain unannounced, the project is listed on Crowd Supply. This initiative offers a sustainable way to maintain the promise of portable, owned music using modern internal components. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.yankodesign.com/2026/10/15/you-now-pair-your-old-ipod-with-airpods-thanks-to-this-motherboard-swap/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=you-now-pair-your-old-ipod-with-airpods-thanks-to-this-motherboard-swap — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._