A new mod brings Apple's classic iPods into 2026 with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C, and Spotify support

A new project is aiming to bring Apple's classic iPods into the modern era by adding Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C, expandable storage, and support for Spotify. Interested iPod owners can sign up to receive updates on the development of this mod, which utilizes Raspberry Pi boards as drop-in replacement mainboards. These boards, known as the Sprout Pico and Sprout Pi, make older iPod models compatible with modern wired and wireless interfaces without requiring any soldering.

The Raspberry Pi RP2350 boards come pre-installed with a custom operating system that supports various new features and applications.

The Sprout Pico model is expected to be the more affordable option and includes Bluetooth audio support for modern AirPods, a high-fidelity digital-to-analog converter through the 3.5mm headphone jack, USB-C connectivity with digital audio output and inline remote controls, Wi-Fi support, two GPIO pins, up to 2TB of microSD card storage, and a battery capacity of 1,200 mAh or 2,500 mAh. Additionally, the modded iPods will support a range of audio formats, including AAC, ALAC, FLAC, Opus, and podcast downloads.

The Sprout Pi model takes things a step further by incorporating a Raspberry Pi Compute Module Zero to enable AirPlay, custom apps, and streaming via Apple Music or Spotify. A trailer demonstrates the installation process, which is reversible, followed by showcasing the iPod's interaction with various Bluetooth devices such as AirPods and a HomePod. The custom interface displays AirPods controls, the latest podcasts, and music from Spotify and Apple Music on the iPod's low-resolution, black-and-white screen.

While MP3 players were already popular when Apple launched the first iPod in 2001, the iconic device revolutionized the market. Over two decades, Apple made multiple design revisions to the iPod, but ultimately discontinued the line in 2020 due to the iPhone's dominance in functionality. The final iPod model, the iPod Touch, essentially served as an iPhone without cellular connectivity.

However, in recent years, frustration with the streaming business model has led some users to return to standalone MP3 players. Prior iPod mods have added features like microSD support and Spotify integration, but the Sprout Pi project appears to take things to a new level.