In the last years I read already a few times about the iPod now being super upgradable to an SSD or micro SD nearly as big as you want.
Source: https://hackaday.com/2022/02/16/classic-ipods-are-super-upgradeable-in-2022/
So I looked up the parts already a while ago on Amazon, but they were pretty expensive, so I decided to wait or don’t do it. But a few weeks ago I saw one part being available on AliExpress, so I instantly looked up the other parts and ordered (round about 30€). See below for part links (just for example). Last week all parts arrived and I started my project and put everything together. If you also want to do that, here is a link on how to dis-/assemble the iPod:
As I wanted to minimize the risk for shorts and loose parts inside, I 3D-printed two thin layers of TPU to place between adapter and backplate and between adapter and board.
I then assembled everything (without closing the case!) and restored the iPod using my old MacBook (2013 - running macOS BigSur). I restored the partition in finder and then restored the iPod with Apple Music. Tried with windows first, but couldn’t get it to work. Works like a new one now! Definitely recommend if you have one laying around.
Ask me if you have any questions :)
The printable case I made is available for free here:
https://www.printables.com/de/model/554008-ipod-classic-5g-30gb-case-with-hexagon-back
Parts:
CF to microSD Adapter:
CF Upgrade Card:
Shell replacement (optional):
Edit/Update:
I made a dock for it, that works with the charging/sync cable and fits my case.
Here are the print files for the dock:
https://www.printables.com/de/model/555680-ipod-dockstand-for-gorroths-tpu-case
Edit/Update 2:
I now also made a storage/travel box you can 3D-print available to download here:
https://www.printables.com/de/model/565265-ipod-classic-5-box-inkl-kabel-management-airtag-ed
Look at my post on the box here for details:
Thank you! Yes I too wanted to have my local music library on a portable device. That’s the reason I never threw away my iPod even though the HDD was defective since like 2010. I always thought :“one day…“ and now I am super happy :)
I wish the zune community was this extensive, maybe it is? I loved the zune too, honestly didn’t get the tribalism towards one or the other. An og model zune with a massive battery and some flash would be very cool.
Hmm… The zune never was a big thing in Europe, so I never actually saw one in real life. But as far as I know the memory-chip is soldered on, so I don’t think there is an easy way to upgrade. The battery is said to be replaceable though. I don’t mind what hardware one is using. It has to fit your needs, not everyone’s. For me the iPod was the one thing I always had with me since I got it in 2005(?), so for me there is a heavy nostalgic factor that got me to do this.
I know it’s off topic but I’ve always thought it would be cool to put a MacBook into a transparent plastic shell.
You mean like those old GameBoys? The bottom side would look pretty cool, but i could imagine the back of the display would look a bit boring. But that sounds like an interesting project. Do such shells even exist?
I have no idea, I feel like the screen would be tough as it’s pressed with glass and the keyboard is riveted in I believe. It would probably be more doable for older iBooks and MacBooks that are plastic.
Hmm… yes you are probably right. There are DBrand decals that look like the interior, but I know that’s just not the same…
I absolutely love my Zune HD but I'm not going to be upgrading the hard drive on it. My iPod classic was an easy upgrade
Did you ever use windows phone by chance? It was so beautiful and surprisingly easy to navigate. It was very inspired by the Zune design language.