Sprout is a drop-in replacement motherboard for iPod 3rd‑gen, 4th‑gen, and iPod mini that keeps the original case, monochrome LCD, and click wheel while modernizing the internals. It replaces the aging logic board with a new RP2350-powered design, adds Bluetooth for AirPods and other headphones, Wi‑Fi, USB‑C charging and digital audio, a Cirrus Logic CS43131 hi‑fi DAC on the original 3.5 mm jack, and a microSD slot supporting up to 2 TB. The firmware recreates the classic clickwheel interface, including Cover Flow, search, and podcast support, and aims for long battery life (target ~40 hours on 3G/4G with a 2,500 mAh cell, ~20 hours on mini with 1,200 mAh).
Two versions are offered: Sprout Pico, driven by the RP2350 microcontroller for local playback of MP3, AAC, ALAC, FLAC, and Opus files; and Sprout Pi, which adds a Raspberry Pi Compute Module Zero to enable streaming from Spotify and Apple Music, AirPlay, podcasts, and custom apps. Installation requires only basic tools and reuses original ribbon cables; no soldering is needed. All hardware and software are open source (CERN‑OHL‑S v2, MPL‑2.0, CC BY 4.0) with files planned for GitHub, and working proofs of concept exist though streaming service availability at launch may vary due to API changes.
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![Why robots can't pick strawberries yet [video]](https://hntoday.pixelshot.io/screenshots/20261014/009b4c6d67314f5d_tn.jpeg)
Robots still struggle to pick strawberries due to the complexity of the task, which requires delicate handling and adaptability. Advances in robotics are ongoing, but the challenge remains significant. (youtube.com)
Nvidia is ending the supply of GB202 silicon for the RTX 5090, reserving it for workstation GPUs. The RTX 5090 is expected to be discontinued, with the RTX 5080 24 GB becoming the top GeForce card. (techpowerup.com)
A Garmin 'MCP' is a custom device or software modification designed to enhance or replicate Garmin's existing functionality. The project involves creating a personalized control panel or interface for Garmin devices. (jackantico.io)
Apple releases the HomePod Mini 2, a compact smart speaker available in five colors, offering room-filling sound and smart home control. It features multiroom audio, touch controls, and will support Siri improvements in a future update. (apple.com)
Physical Intelligence has launched an API beta that provides access to advanced robotic models for training and inference, simplifying deployment across various industries. The API enables easy fine-tuning and adaptation of models to specific tasks, supporting diverse applications and faster development of autonomous robots. (pi.website)
Huawei has produced over 100 million Kirin chips despite previous US sanctions that limited its access to certain technologies. The milestone highlights Huawei's resilience and progress in its chip manufacturing capabilities. (scmp.com)
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