Hardware News
Hardware news covering devices, robotics, chips, semiconductors, EVs, and consumer electronics.
222 articles
Giving the NES an Optical Data Storage Add-On
A hobbyist project adds a CD-ROM optical storage add-on to the classic NES, exploring what gaming would have looked like with expanded storage capacity.
Woodstove Assistant Keeps the Heat on Safely
DIY woodstove monitoring system using ESP32 and temperature probes to prevent dangerous creosote buildup and chimney fires through remote temperature alerts.
Laser Your Way to Smoother FDM 3D Prints
Using lasers to smooth FDM 3D-printed surfaces by melting layer lines, offering an alternative to chemical vapor smoothing without hazardous fumes.
Fat Tire Brakes Get Wireless Upgrade
A hacker builds wireless brakes for a fat tire bicycle using ESP32 microcontrollers and car door lock actuators, eliminating traditional cables and hydraulics.
Compact PCB Vise Uses Up That Leftover Filament
A compact 3D printed PCB vise solder station that uses less than 70 grams of filament and cleverly repurposes solder spools as counterweights for stability.
This is the iPhone 18 Pro Max
Unbox Therapy reviews the iPhone 18 Pro Max, exploring whether Apple's latest flagship or a rumored foldable design represents the next evolution.
Mammotion Luba 3 changed my mind about robot lawnmowers
The Mammotion Luba 3 robot lawnmower addresses key pain points that have kept consumers skeptical about autonomous lawn care devices.
3D Printed Piano Action Faithful to the Original
Engineer uses 3D printing and compliant mechanisms to recreate a piano's complex internal action mechanism in weeks rather than years of traditional design.
Playing Snake with a Pneumatic Display
A vacuum-driven dot matrix display uses pneumatic logic to create pixels through suction-activated cavities in silicone, enabling both display and touchscreen functionality.
This Library Needs to Be At Least… Three Times Bigger
A maker builds a robotic microSD card library using a tiny robotic arm and T-bot kinematics to organize and access existing storage cards efficiently.
Reviving an SD Card With Shorted Capacitors
A technician successfully recovered data from a failed SD card by identifying and replacing shorted capacitors on its PCB, demonstrating that flash memory often survives component-level failures.
Pixelated 114: Who watches the Pixel Watch?
Pixelated podcast discusses the Pixel Watch 5 and Google's wearable strategy going forward.
Overtime Episode 079: The $899 Mac mini
Jeff and Fernando review Apple's new M6 Mac mini and M5 Pro models, comparing specs and pricing alongside the new Mac Studio with M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips.
Oppo Find X10 ‘Pro Max’ reportedly gets three 200MP cameras
Oppo's upcoming Find X10 Pro Max model reportedly features three 200MP cameras, marking a significant upgrade in smartphone imaging capabilities.
Hackaday Podcast Episode 384: OCR MOD Records, Magical PCBs, and the Gravity of Space Stations
Hackaday podcast roundup featuring DIY projects including OCR vinyl records, magical PCBs, and space station history.
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Pixel 11 vs. Pixel 11 Pro: More similar than ever before [Video]
Comparison of Google's Pixel 11 and Pixel 11 Pro, examining whether their similarities represent smart iteration or missed differentiation opportunities.
Premium: The Hater's Guide To Circular Financing (Part One)
A satirical critique of NVIDIA's semiconductor pricing strategy and circular financing practices within the AI industry.
Deals: Amazon 2026 Labor Day sale, NXTPAPER tablets from $150, Galaxy Tab S11 $200 off, Anker charging gear from $12, more
Amazon's Labor Day sale features thousands of discounts on tablets, charging gear, and smart home devices from brands like Samsung, TCL, and Anker.
This Week in Security: Android Malware, VOIP Hijack, Signal Contact Discovery, and TeamPCP Arrests
Security researcher discovers pre-installed malware on cheap Android TV streaming devices, detailing extraction methods and malware capabilities.
RAM and eMMC Prices Are So High, Pine64 Has Stopped Linux Device Production
Pine64 halts Linux device production due to skyrocketing RAM and eMMC prices driven by AI industry demand, prompting industry concerns.
Panoramic Photography with a Linear Scanner
A creative DIY project using a linear camera sensor mounted on moving vehicles to capture ultra-wide panoramic images by stitching together single columns of pixels.
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Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra finally dies in bend test, unlike past models [Video]
Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra becomes the first mainstream foldable to fail a bend test, suggesting its ultra-thin design may have compromised durability.
Deals: Last day Pixel 11 offers – $350 gift cards, FREE watch, smart display power bank $110 off, Echo displays, more
Last-day Amazon deals on Pixel 11 phones with $350 gift cards and free Pixel Watch 5, plus Echo displays and smart TVs up to 36% off.
Analog Optical Feedback Generates 4K Fractals With No Computer
Artist creates 4K fractal patterns using analog optical feedback without a computer, reviving vintage video feedback techniques with modern display technology.
eenk Provides eInk, ESP32 Powered Text Adventures
Developer creates eeink, an ESP32-powered e-ink reader for text adventure games, optimized for memory-constrained devices with a custom IDE.
Encoding MOD Files Optically On Paper, Because Amiga’s Legacy Will Outlast M-Disks
Developer encodes Amiga MOD music files optically on paper as a creative archival method that outlasts traditional optical disk longevity.
Blow Those Pyros With A Telephone!
A creative DIY pyrotechnic detonator built using a vintage military field telephone's ringer generator to charge capacitors and trigger explosive charges.
The Fitbit Air would be S-tier if anyone made a band half as decent as Whoop’s
The Fitbit Air fitness tracker has potential but falls short due to uncomfortable band options compared to competitors like Whoop.
The Sideload 042: A genderless Pixel experience
The Sideload podcast episode 42 features hosts discussing Google's latest Pixel phones, comparing Snapdragon and Tensor chips.
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This new Android & iPhone tracker hides in your bike or golf clubs with 3-year battery life [Gallery]
Pebblebee launches LÔC8, a compact tracker with 3-year battery life that works with Apple Find My and Android Find Hub to locate bikes, golf clubs, and other gear.
Jalapeño’s first results show industry-leading speed and efficiency in AI inference
OpenAI's custom Jalapeño inference chip achieves industry-leading speed and efficiency for AI model deployment with improved throughput and lower latency.
Straight Talk on 3D Printing Footwear At Home
A practical guide to 3D printing custom footwear at home using TPU and multi-material printing techniques, exploring the complexities of the process.
3D-Printed Skin Gives Robots the Sensation of Touch
Researchers develop 3D-printed synthetic skin that gives robots tactile sensing capabilities, enabling them to detect touch and pressure.
A 1990s Homebrew OS With GUI And Web Browser, In AM29000 Machine Code
A retrospective on building a complete 1990s operating system with GUI and web browser from scratch in AM29000 assembly language.
An Electronic Explanation Of 1960s Fuzz Boxes
Technical deep dive into 1960s fuzz box circuits, examining eight different topologies that shaped rock music through distortion and effects design.
At Last, A Gameboy Advance With Decent Audio
A modder created a replacement audio board for the Game Boy Advance that upgrades its notoriously poor PWM audio with a cleaner signal path, filtering, EQ, and Bluetooth connectivity.
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Pixel 10 vs. Pixel 11: Where are the upgrades? [Video]
Google's Pixel 11 brings only incremental improvements over the Pixel 10, reflecting a broader trend of iterative rather than bold annual upgrades in smartphone design.
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The Pixel 11 Pro’s flashlight is a little bit worse because of ‘HiLight’ [Gallery]
Google's new HiLight feature on the Pixel 11 Pro reduces flashlight utility and weakens the phone's rear LED flashlight functionality.
Neo-Cyclostyle: Automatic Document Copying Devices in 1890
A look at cyclostyle devices from the 1890s, early automatic document copying machines that predated modern photocopiers and xerography technology.
3D Printing a Railway Pump Car
A maker uses 3D printing to construct a functional railway pump car, a mechanical device requiring coordination between two operators.
Hackaday Links: August 23, 2026
NASA's Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory will reenter Earth's atmosphere after a commercial rescue mission fails due to attitude control issues with the LINK spacecraft.
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Samsung reportedly bringing this major redesign back from the dead with Galaxy S27 [Gallery]
Samsung is reportedly reviving a discontinued design for its Galaxy S27 series, though specific details remain unclear from current leaks.
Using the Basic SNES Hardware to Play Minecraft
Developer ports a basic Minecraft version to the Super Nintendo, demonstrating that classic 16-bit hardware can deliver a playable gaming experience without specialized 3D chips.
Making LEDs in the Home Fab
An amateur fabricator demonstrates a practical method for making and bonding homemade LED chips, advancing DIY semiconductor fabrication beyond simple demonstrations.
Google’s inevitable ‘Pixel Watch Ultra’ should copy the Fitbit Air
Analysis of Google's potential 'Pixel Watch Ultra' and how it could incorporate design elements from the Fitbit Air smartwatch.
Stop Buying Apple Watch Bands. You Only Need These 3
9to5Mac reviews the best Apple Watch bands, recommending three essential options that eliminate the need for excessive purchases.
Turning Corroded, Bug-Loving WiiMotes into a Working One
A repair enthusiast salvages three corroded, bug-infested WiiMote controllers to create one working unit, demonstrating electronics repair techniques.
An Atari Desktop On A Sega
A developer has successfully ported EmuTOS, an open-source Atari operating system replacement, to run on a Sega Mega CD console, supporting keyboards, printers, and storage devices.
Open-Source ExpressLRS Receiver Reaches for Range
Open-source ExpressLRS receiver design achieves 100+ km drone control range using chirp spread spectrum modulation at 2.4 GHz, demonstrating advanced radio signal engineering.
The Shutter Makes This 3D Printed Camera Special
A maker demonstrates an innovative 3D printed camera shutter design with variable speed capability, using a sliding mechanism controlled by rubber bands.
555 Makes a Useful Beat Frequency Oscillator
A guide to building a beat frequency oscillator using a 555 timer IC to enhance ham radio receivers for receiving CW and SSB transmissions.
Please don’t buy Google’s wildly overpriced Pixel 11 Clear Case
Google's Pixel 11 Clear Case is criticized for its high price point compared to third-party alternatives.
How the Grid’s Harmonic Filters Keep the Power Clean
Deep dive into harmonic filters that clean up AC power on electrical grids after HVDC conversion, examining components and design at massive scale.
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Pixel 11 Pro Fold still doesn’t survive bend test, but at least it didn’t ‘explode’ this time [Video]
Google's Pixel 11 Pro Fold shows durability improvements in bend tests but still fails to survive, indicating ongoing engineering challenges for foldable devices.
Building a Hammond Organ to Understand How They Work
A hands-on deep dive into building a miniature Hammond organ from scratch to understand the electromechanical principles behind this classic musical instrument.
Pixelated 113: Made You (Camera) Look
The Pixelated podcast reviews Google's latest Pixel 11 lineup, including the Pixel 11, Pro models, and Pro Fold.
Pixel Watch 5 lets you customize double pinch to dismiss alarms, skip music, & more
Pixel Watch 5 now supports customizable double pinch gestures for controlling alarms, music, and other functions.
Thermoacoustic Sterling Engine is Now Fully 3D Printable
A fully 3D-printable thermoacoustic Stirling engine with integrated biogas burner, enabling DIY energy generation with optimized heat exchange geometry.
I Said Yes to Every Email for a Month! (Again)
MKBHD reviews every product pitch he receives in one month, testing a wild variety of gadgets from smart toilets to multi-screen laptops.
PVC Pipe Turned DIY Digital Telescope
Maker builds a smart telescope from PVC pipe and a 114mm mirror, adding a Raspberry Pi and camera module for digital astronomy on a budget.
$100 Best Buy gift cards will be $60 at stores Saturday
Best Buy is offering $100 gift cards for $60 in-store on August 22nd to celebrate its 60th anniversary, with limited supplies available.
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Pixel 11 Pro Fold is changing how I multitask on a foldable with ‘App Handles’ [Gallery]
Google's Pixel 11 Pro Fold introduces 'App Handles,' a new multitasking feature designed to improve the foldable phone experience.
Running Zork On The Steam Controller
Developer writes custom Rust firmware to run Zork on a Steam Controller by emulating an Intel 8080 CPU and CP/M operating system.
Samsung Printer is the Next Frontier Of Minecraft Servers
A hacker successfully ran a Minecraft server on a Samsung printer by exploiting firmware vulnerabilities through serial access, demonstrating creative hardware repurposing.
Homebrew 68K Machine Has A PCI Bus
A homebrew Motorola 68K computer features an unconventional PCI bus implementation, combining retro processor architecture with modern expansion standards.
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Google Pixel screen savers add new styles and iPhone-like switching [Gallery]
Google Pixel 11 phones now support multiple screensaver styles with automatic switching, matching iPhone functionality.
Foldable OLED Displays and the Bane of Dust
Foldable OLED displays face engineering challenges with dust infiltration at hinge mechanisms, similar to past design trade-offs in thin devices.
Apple’s HomePad Just Leaked… It’s Basically a Giant Apple Watch
Apple's rumored HomePad device reportedly combines smart speaker and tablet form factor, resembling a giant Apple Watch with display capabilities.
Samsung confirms August 27 event for the ‘newest addition to the Galaxy S26 family’
Samsung announces August 27 event to reveal a new Galaxy S26 series device, though details suggest it may not be a major flagship release.
NASA Tests Featherweight Radar Antenna for SkyFall Mars Helicopters
NASA tests a lightweight, foldable ground-penetrating radar antenna for the upcoming SkyFall Mars helicopter mission, designed to search for subsurface resources like water.
HYDR8 Will Lead You to Water, But Will You Drink?
HYDR8 is a wearable device that reminds users to drink water by detecting when hydration is needed, solving the problem of dehydration during deep work sessions.
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Google Pixel 11 gets dbrand’s full case lineup, including Tank for the first time [Gallery]
dbrand releases its complete case lineup for Google Pixel 11, including the Tank case option for the first time.
Mini Blinking Barrels Keep Desktop Traffic in Check
A maker designs miniature blinking traffic barrels as desktop decorations, optimizing every aspect from 3D printing to PCB layout for small-scale production.
Apple AirTag 2 - How to Change the Battery
Step-by-step guide to replacing the CR2032 battery in Apple's AirTag 2 tracking device.
Historical Hack: Henri Griffard’s Steam Injectors
Historical exploration of Henri Griffard's steam injector invention from the 1850s, a clever mechanical solution using fluid dynamics to inject water into pressurized locomotive boilers.
Joy-Cons Plus WiiMotes Make for Switch 2 Wii-Cons
A hacker combines Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons with Wii Remote components to create more ergonomic controllers for the Switch 2, addressing comfort issues with standard Joy-Cons.
Pixel Watch 1 not losing Google Health sleep, workout support
Google confirms Pixel Watch 1 will continue receiving Google Health sleep and workout support after a bug caused false update error messages.
A Hot End And Material Database For 3D Printing
MeltCalc database helps FDM 3D printing users optimize settings by collating data on 64 hot ends and 36 materials, predicting maximum flow rates and print speeds.
The Sideload 041: A vision of Pixels to come
The Sideload podcast episode 41 explores Google's Pixel 11 vision, balancing AI assistant accessibility with digital wellbeing and minimalism.
Reverse Engineered Grill Controller Gets Open Firmware
A hacker reverse-engineered a Gravity 800 grill controller and released open-source firmware, enabling community modifications and repairs.
PolyShot Camera Focuses On Nostalgia
Engineer builds PolyShot, an open-source DIY point-and-shoot digital camera using an ESP32-S3 board to capture the nostalgic aesthetic of vintage digital cameras.
Using Acoustic Resonators as Thrusters for Small Robots
Researchers demonstrate using acoustic resonators based on Helmholtz resonance to power miniature flying robots, offering an unconventional propulsion method for small-scale devices.
Edison Motors Offering All-Mechanical Trucks, At Least to Start
Edison Motors launches its BDE series truck with a conventional diesel drivetrain first, delaying the planned series-hybrid electric version to manage costs and regulatory challenges.
One Man’s Perfect Retro-Style Monitor Takes All Inputs
A maker builds the PixelVision AV1000 MKII, a retro-style monitor with multiple inputs designed for vintage gaming and computing systems.
OLEDs Have Gained Brightness, Not Burn-In Resistance
OLED displays have improved in brightness since 2017, but burn-in resistance hasn't advanced as expected, according to RTings testing.
More On Wave Overhangs for 3D Printing
Wave overhangs is a new 3D printing technique that enables horizontal overhangs without support structures by growing them from the main part using wave-like patterns.
Using the Famicom Network System in 2026
A deep dive into the Famicom Network System modem add-on from 1988 and whether it still functions in 2026, exploring retro gaming hardware capabilities.
Hackaday Links: August 16, 2026
Hackaday's weekly roundup covers jellyfish swarms disabling French nuclear reactors and NHS data leaks via unencrypted pagers.
Another Radio on a Chip Design
Open-source FM radio design using the TEA5767 chip, ESP-32 microcontroller, and basic components to build a functional radio tuner with display and control interface.
Laser Layers for (Almost) Isotropicly Strong Prints
Hacker improves 3D printing by adding lasers to pre-melt layers, achieving near-isotropic strength with z-axis breaking strain up to 94% of x-axis.
Apple’s INSANE September Potential Product Lineup!
Apple's September event could feature up to eight new products including AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Max 2, Apple Watch Series 11, and more.
Pixel 11 Pro’s ‘HiLight’ is another half-baked feature burdened by bad first impressions
Google's Pixel 11 Pro 'HiLight' feature faces criticism as another example of Google launching incomplete features that struggle to reach their potential.
Face Unlock on Pixel 11 series works better in low light
Google's Pixel 11 series improves Face Unlock performance in low-light conditions using advanced camera-based face recognition technology.
Turning Energy Drinks Into Rocket Fuel
A maker demonstrates converting energy drink into solid rocket fuel by extracting sugar and combining it with potassium nitrate oxidizer.
Peeling Fruit with the Power of Steam
Engineer builds a steam-powered fruit peeler inspired by industrial potato-peeling machines, using explosive decompression to remove skins.
Scanning for Lifesigns with ESP32 and Raspberry Pi
A motion detection system using ESP32 and Raspberry Pi that leverages WiFi signal disruption to detect human presence and subtle movements like breathing.
Radio Shack Toy Returns to Life
Hackaday explores a vintage Radio Shack 200-in-1 electronic kit, restoring the nostalgic educational device and demonstrating its spring-based circuit-building approach.
Don’t overlook Elektron’s budget electronic music instruments
A review of Elektron's affordable Model:Samples and Model:Cycles grooveboxes, highlighting their surprising power and value for electronic music beginners.
Ukraine strikes major Russian rocket factory with cruise missiles
Ukraine strikes Russia's Progress Rocket Space Center in Samara using cruise missiles, targeting a key manufacturer of Soyuz rockets and military satellites.
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Pixel 11 ads show a mysterious screen-equipped tracker that’s not Pixel Watch 5 or Fitbit Air [Gallery]
Google's new Pixel 11 ads hint at an unreleased fitness tracker device, distinct from existing Fitbit and Pixel Watch products.
After Using the Z Fold 8, I Finally Understand Why Apple Waited SO LONG
A hands-on review of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 examining why Apple has delayed entering the foldable smartphone market.
Twin Guitar-Playing Robots Will Work for Tab
Twin guitar-playing robots built with 3D-printed parts use gears and magnetic actuators to play acoustic guitar from digital tablature, combining fretting and plucking capabilities.
Large-Scale Pokémon Eviction Looms with Pokémon Bank Server Shutdown
Nintendo is shutting down Pokémon Bank on February 25, 2027, affecting 3DS users who stored digital Pokémon in the cloud service.
Submersible drone analyzes ice
ETH Zurich students developed a submersible drone equipped with sonar to measure ice thickness safely and accurately.
Self-driving trucks are officially testing on California highways
Aurora Innovation and Kodiak AI have received California DMV permits to test autonomous trucks on highways, marking a major milestone for self-driving vehicle development.
Automatic Naptime with BabyBjorn Bouncing Servo
A maker automates a baby rocker using a servo motor, Arduino, and 3D printed parts to free up parents' hands while soothing infants.
Samsung has new Galaxy headphones in the works
Samsung is developing over-ear headphones called Galaxy H1 to compete with Apple's AirPods Max, with a rumored 2027 launch.
A RAMageddon guide to back-to-school laptop shopping
A guide to finding affordable laptops for students amid RAM and storage shortages affecting PC pricing in 2026.
First test flight of largest all-electric aircraft used just $5 of electricity
Heart Aerospace's X1 demonstrator, the largest all-electric aircraft, completed its first flight using just $5 of electricity, signaling progress toward sustainable commercial aviation.
Lamborghini’s flagship Revuelto levels up with SV trim
Lamborghini unveils the Revuelto SV, its flagship supercar trim designed to create a seamless bond between driver and vehicle through advanced performance engineering.
Uninvasive EEG Interface Could Be Used To Play Games
Researchers developed Octopus 16, a non-invasive EEG headset with 16 electrodes that connects via Bluetooth to enable brain-computer gaming interfaces.
Google’s best new camera feature is only for the Pixel 11 series
Google's Pixel 11 series introduces Camera Looks, a new computational photography feature that processes images at the sensor level to mimic vintage digital camera aesthetics.
Hackaday Podcast Episode 382: Glueballs, Borg Cubes, and Supersonic Trebuchets
Hackaday Podcast Episode 382 covers listener hacks and projects including cooling solutions, Borg Cubes, and trebuchets, plus Supercon Ten event updates.
iOS 27 Makes AirPods Pro 3 So MUCH Better!
iOS 27 brings new features that enhance AirPods Pro 3 functionality, making Apple's wireless earbuds even more capable.
We Skipped the Pixel Event
Waveform hosts discuss Google's latest Pixel 11 phones, new HiLight glow feature, Pixel Watch 5 earbuds, and Pixel Tag from the Made by Google event.
Weekly Dose of Optimism #206
A weekly optimism roundup covering drones, basketball, Recast, Fuse neutrons, and Rick Rubin's creative insights.
Smart Clock Helps With Medication Management
A DIY smart clock built with ESP32 and addressable LEDs provides medication reminders, home automation, and security monitoring capabilities.
Your Laptop Keyboard, On Another Device
A clever hack using two RP2040 boards to transmit laptop keyboard inputs over serial to another device, solving first-setup challenges for headless machines like Raspberry Pi.
Pixel 11 launch keynote live blog: Google blew it by not playing ‘Like a G6’
Google unveiled the Pixel 11, Pixel Watch 5, and Pixel Tag at its launch event, revealing the company's latest hardware lineup.
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I can’t unsee the reason Pixel 11 Pro Fold is thinner, but it’s for the best [Gallery]
Google's Pixel 11 Pro Fold features asymmetrical thickness in its two halves, a design choice that prioritizes overall thinness while maintaining durability.
The Pixel 11 series is still eSIM-only in the US, just in case you forgot
Google's Pixel 11 series continues eSIM-only support in the US, following the Pixel 10's removal of physical SIM card compatibility.
Pixel 11 Pro displays are ‘more than twice’ as scratch-resistant – it only gets better from there
Google's Pixel 11 Pro series features displays that are more than twice as scratch-resistant, along with improved drop protection across the lineup.
Read a USB Logitech Racing Wheel on an ESP32‑S3
A new library enables ESP32-S3 microcontrollers to read USB Logitech racing wheels by implementing native mode switching for full control data access.
Honor finally launches Robot Phone starting at around $1,500
Honor debuts its AI-first Robot Phone with motorized gimbal at $1,500, though availability remains limited globally.
Google Pixel 11/Pro/Fold Impressions: It Is What It Is
MKBHD reviews Google's latest Pixel 11 lineup, including the Pro, Pro XL, and Fold models, offering first impressions on the new flagship devices.
Titanic-esqe Telegraph Keeps Relationship Afloat
A maker built a ship's telegraph-inspired communication device using ESP32 microcontrollers and gimbal motors to synchronize indicators between rooms.
Google sends out $150 discount codes ahead of Pixel 11 pre-orders
Google offers $150 discount codes ahead of Pixel 11 pre-orders, launching within 24 hours.
Is Manual Filament Tuning Still Worth It?
Analysis of whether manual filament tuning remains valuable for FDM 3D printers despite modern automation features like auto bed leveling and temperature regulation.
Fixing a Dead Makita Battery with a 20 Cent Part
A Makita power tool battery pack can be revived by replacing a single faulty thermistor component costing about 20 cents, offering a practical repair alternative to expensive replacement batteries.
Splitting a Ball Bearing to Cut Out Backlash
An engineer reduces mechanical backlash by splitting a ball bearing in half, creating a self-contained preloaded bearing solution that eliminates gaps and improves precision.
Turning a Toy Game Boy into a Real Game Boy
A hacker modifies a Fisher Price toy Game Boy into a functional Nintendo Game Boy Color by integrating donor hardware while preserving the toy's original aesthetic.
iPhone 18 Pro Will Have 3 Upgrades That Have Been Rumored For Years
9to5Mac discusses three long-rumored upgrades coming to the iPhone 18 Pro, exploring anticipated features for Apple's next flagship device.
Deals: Nothing Phone $200 off, Pixel Buds from just $70, Galaxy Book 6 up to $650 off, Pixelsnap Charger 50% off, more
Back to school deals featuring Nothing Phone (3), Pixel Buds, Galaxy Book 6, and other tech devices at significant discounts.
You Won’t Believe What This Sounds Like...
Unbox Therapy reviews the DJI Mic Mini 2s wireless microphone, exploring its audio quality and features.
This Monitor Beats Apple on Paper… But Is It Actually Better? | LG UltraFine 6k
9to5Mac reviews the LG UltraFine 6K monitor, comparing its specs and real-world performance against Apple's display standards.
The PiShot Is Ready For Your Snaps
The PiShot is a compact Raspberry Pi-based camera featuring a 3D-printed case, Pi Zero 2 W, camera module, display, and battery in a portable form factor.
Cotton-Fiberglass Composite Makes Lightweight RV Countertops
A maker demonstrates using printed cotton fibers with resin to create lightweight, durable composite countertops for RVs, offering an alternative to traditional glass or carbon fiber reinforcement.
Google’s base Pixel 11 probably won’t have ‘HiLight’ but will actually have enough RAM
Google's upcoming Pixel 11 base model will skip the HiLight feature but include sufficient RAM, according to latest pre-launch leaks.
Building a bicycle dropper seat post
A DIY project building a bicycle dropper seat post using cable-actuated mechanical plates and air springs for adjustable seat height control.
Galaxy S26 FE specs leak alongside a higher price tag
Samsung's Galaxy S26 FE specs have leaked ahead of launch, revealing a higher price tag for the budget-focused smartphone.
Teardown of an Oxford Nanopore MinION DNA Sequencer
A detailed teardown of Oxford Nanopore's MinION DNA sequencer, exploring how the compact device miniaturizes laboratory-grade genetic sequencing technology.
Creating a Supersonic Trebuchet
Engineer builds a modern trebuchet capable of launching projectiles at supersonic speeds using gearing systems and optimized mechanics.
Hackaday Links: August 9, 2026
Memory production capacity is booked through 2027 as major chip makers face record demand, signaling continued shortage and price premiums ahead.
The Stages of Grief in Repairing a Trinitron Found in the Trash
A deep dive into repairing a vintage Sony Trinitron CRT TV found abandoned for six years, documenting the emotional journey of troubleshooting power supply issues.
The Chinese Smart Glasses Proving that Smart Glasses can be Repairable
Chinese smart glasses manufacturer Rokid demonstrates that wearables can be designed for repairability, featuring user-replaceable batteries and easy disassembly.
This Might Be the BEST iPhone Gaming Controller Ever — MCON Review
Review of the Ohsnap MCON gaming controller for iPhone, exploring its features and performance for mobile gaming.
The Pixel 11 won’t be exciting – what do you want next year?
Google's Pixel 11 launch is shaping up to be underwhelming, prompting discussion about what features users want to see in next year's Pixel 12.
Tracking Bees with a Stereo Camera
A maker documents the design challenges of building a stereo camera system to photograph bees in flight, addressing tradeoffs in frame rate, resolution, and sensor technology.
High-Density Parchment Paper Papertronics with Laser-Carved Hydrophilic Channels
Researchers develop paper-based electronics using parchment paper with laser-carved channels, enabling low-cost, recyclable flexible circuits.
Track Bird Visitors With a Raspberry Pi and a USB Mic
A Raspberry Pi project that uses audio recognition to identify visiting birds and displays them on a web interface or E-Ink panel.
Robotic Screw and Bolt Sorter Seeks a New Challenge
A maker built an automatic robotic system to sort mixed bolts and screws, with potential applications for sorting any small objects.
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Pixel 11 Pro XL shows up in hands-on leak days ahead of launch [Gallery]
Google's upcoming Pixel 11 Pro XL appears in leaked hands-on images ahead of the official launch event.
Musician and entrepreneur Tom Vek is building a digital music player, but don’t call it retro
Musician Tom Vek is launching Sleevenote, a new digital music player inspired by vinyl design, blending nostalgia with modern technology.
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Pixel 11: All of the last-minute leaks [Video]
Comprehensive roundup of leaked details about Google's upcoming Pixel 11 smartphone series ahead of official launch.
Google’s Pixel Watch 5 takes notes from the Fitbit Air in latest leak
Google's Pixel Watch 5 reportedly features a Stephen Curry edition design inspired by the Fitbit Air, maintaining a familiar overall appearance.
Apple’s Next Price Hike Is Going to Hurt
Analysis of Apple's upcoming price increases across AirPods Pro 3, Apple Watch Series 11, and iPhone 17 Pro models.
Is this $450 laptop from an unknown brand too good to be true?
The Verge reviews Chuwi's $450 UniBook laptop, examining whether this budget Windows device with aluminum build and Intel processor lives up to its promising specs.
The BBC Tetris Companion
A hobbyist reverse-engineers a 1985 BBC Bridge Companion game console to create a Tetris cartridge, documenting ROM header analysis and hardware repair.
Block, shmock — Just Pump Water Over The Chip
A PC enthusiast tests direct water cooling without traditional water blocks, achieving better GPU cooling but CPU failures in this experimental cooling approach.
Pixelated 111: Primetime prep for Made By Google
Podcast preview of Google's upcoming Pixel 11 series unveiling, featuring rumors, leaks, and expectations from industry analysts.
Hacking a $6000 Cotton Candy Machine to Fully Control It
A hacker reverse-engineers a $6000 commercial cotton candy machine to gain full software control over the automated vending system.
Nothing Ear (3a) Review: Simply the best earbuds – and they’re only $99
Nothing Ear (3a) earbuds deliver premium features at an affordable $99 price point, outperforming costlier alternatives.
Chernobyl’s Robots, or the Hackathon From Hell
Historical look at the emergency robotics designed and built to handle the Chernobyl nuclear disaster cleanup in 1986.
Audeze is quietly becoming a dominant force in gaming audio
Audeze expands its gaming audio dominance with the Maxwell 2 ANC, leveraging its audiophile heritage to capture the competitive gaming headset market.
Pixel Watch 5 teaser pokes fun at Apple, Samsung by having ‘decency to look like a watch’
Google releases Pixel Watch 5 teaser video that jabs at Apple and Samsung's smartwatch designs, emphasizing a traditional watch aesthetic.
Your Luxury Car Now Has Ads!
Waveform discusses BMW's ad-filled luxury cars, Apple's interoperability debate, and CMF's latest AI-modeled earbuds.
A 3D Printed Cycloidal Gearbox
A compact 3D-printed cycloidal gearbox designed for NEMA 17 and 23 stepper motors, matching the height of standard motor axles.
NASA’s Just Prolonged Voyager 2’s Science Mission With a Big Bang
NASA extends Voyager 2's science mission by switching heater configurations to free up power from its aging RTG power source.
Rubidium Frequency Standard Explained
Deep dive into how rubidium frequency standards work, explaining the physics and mechanisms behind these precision timekeeping devices used in critical applications.
Phantomdrive Keeps Your Secrets Out of Sight
Phantomdrive is an open-source USB drive with a hidden, encrypted secondary filesystem that performs AES-256 decryption on-device rather than relying on host software.
CNC’d, CNC-inspired Adjustable Wrench Won’t Round Your Bolts
An improved adjustable wrench design using CNC machining and spring-loaded anti-backlash mechanisms to eliminate bolt rounding issues.
This is Beyond just Gaming...
Unbox Therapy reviews the REDMAGIC Astra 2 gaming tablet, highlighting its cooling technology and high refresh rate performance capabilities.
Only the Hottest Tunes Play on This Fire Organ
A maker builds a musical organ powered by propane flames instead of air, using spark plugs and MIDI controls to create sound and light shows.
Hacking a Tenda AC1200 Wi-Fi Router with a CVE Combo
Security researcher discovers multiple CVEs in Tenda AC1200 router, demonstrating firmware extraction and reverse engineering techniques using binwalk and Ghidra.
3D Printing A Usable Airless Tire
A maker uses 3D printing to prototype airless tires for mountain bikes, exploring practical alternatives to pneumatic tire technology.
Full Teardown of a 2026 Amazon Fire Stick HD
Hackaday provides a detailed teardown of Amazon's 2026 Fire Stick HD, examining the internal components and chip architecture of the popular streaming device.
Galaxy Z Fold 8 is convincing Z Flip owners to switch, Samsung says
Samsung reports increased switching from Galaxy Z Flip to Z Fold 8, signaling strong consumer preference for larger foldable form factors.
Addressable LEDs Make Giant 16×2 Character Display
A maker recreates a 16x2 character LCD display at 7x scale using over 1,000 addressable LEDs, with each character on its own PCB and an RP2040 microcontroller for I2C compatibility.
UAG fixed my biggest Galaxy phone complaint with the Z Fold 8
UAG designs a case solution that enables magnetic accessory compatibility with Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8, addressing a major design limitation of the phone.
Samsung insists the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is ‘perfect’ for ‘full-screen’ video – it’s not
Samsung markets the Galaxy Z Fold 8 as ideal for full-screen video, but the reality of the foldable's design falls short of the claim.
Google Contacts reveals what colors Pixel 11 HiLight will support
Google Contacts app reveals color options for the upcoming Pixel 11 HiLight device ahead of its official launch.
Train Simulator Controller: July 2026 Progress Roundup
A multi-year DIY project replicating a British Rail Class 800 train control cab with physical simulator components and detailed engineering updates.
Tearing Down Aircraft Weather Radar Avionics
A teardown of a vintage 1971 Bendix weather radar display from a McDonnell-Douglas DC9, revealing the electronic components and engineering behind aircraft avionics.
Strengthening 3D Prints with a Carbon-Fiber Epidermis
A maker develops a cost-effective method to strengthen 3D prints by embedding carbon-fiber cloth between printed layers, achieving superior strength compared to carbon-fiber filaments.
The Galaxy S26 FE sure does look like a Samsung phone in leaked images
Leaked images of Samsung's upcoming Galaxy S26 FE show the continuation of the company's budget-friendly smartphone design language.
Yellow YAG Produces Powerful Pulses in Les’ Leftover Laser
A hobbyist upgrades his Nd:YAG laser with cerium-doped yellow crystals, achieving over 2x power output (153 mJ vs 72.8 mJ) through improved energy efficiency.
Sketching Temporary Circuits with a Light-Triggered Floquet Topological Insulator
Researchers demonstrate light-triggered Floquet topological insulators in SnTe semiconductor material, enabling temporary circuits that could revolutionize circuit design.
Energizing a Vacuum Tube Flip-Flop Module of the IBM 604
Ken Shirriff explores the vacuum tube flip-flop modules of the 1948 IBM 604 Electronic Calculator, reverse-engineering schematics of these macroscopic computing components.
Circuit Bending, But Make It MIDI
A project adding MIDI control to circuit bending by using a device that varies resistance to enable pitch bending from a keyboard.
Samsung says Galaxy Z Fold 8’s new shape exists because ‘one size does not fit all’
Samsung explains the design philosophy behind the Galaxy Z Fold 8's new shape and discusses color options for its foldable lineup.
Making a Retro(ish) Game Console From Scratch
A developer builds a retro-style game console from scratch using traditional hardware design methods instead of modern microcontrollers, prioritizing authenticity over convenience.
Easy Theremin Uses ESP32
A DIY theremin musical instrument built with an ESP32 microcontroller that uses capacitive touch sensing to detect hand proximity and control pitch and volume.
Hackaday Links: August 2, 2026
Katalyst Space's rescue mission for NASA's Swift gamma-ray observatory overcomes critical failures by using electric thrusters to stabilize the tumbling spacecraft.
An Automated Water Tank Controller
A DIY water tank automation system using ESP32 and ultrasonic sensors to automatically manage pump operations based on water levels.
The Pixel 11 will be a perfect storm of bad timing
Analysis of the Pixel 11's leaked specs suggests underwhelming improvements and poor market timing for Google's upcoming flagship smartphone.
The Seven Sensors and Breakout Boards to Avoid in a Product
A guide identifying seven unreliable sensors and breakout boards commonly used in prototypes and products, with recommendations for better alternatives.
UV Printer? 3D Printer? HeyGears says “Why Not Both”?
HeyGears G1 combines UV flatbed printing with full-color 3D printing capabilities in a prosumer-friendly device now available on Kickstarter.
Bike Trainers as Video Game Controllers
A creative DIY project that converts standard bike trainer data into game controller inputs, enabling gameplay on platforms like Steam Deck.
Stewart Platform Walker Gains Feeling In Legs From Resistors
A hexapod walker robot gains tactile feedback by using resistors to measure servo motor current draw, enabling force sensing without expensive strain gauges.
Pixel 11 specs and price leak with no surprises
Leaked specs reveal Google's Pixel 11 lineup will start at $899 with the Tensor G6 chip and increased base storage, marking a $100 price increase.
Open Source Stream Deck Targets Flexibility
An open source Stream32 device offers a customizable alternative to commercial stream decks, using an ESP32 microcontroller and flexible display options.
Here's how engineers plan to save the satellite sent to save NASA's Swift mission
NASA's satellite rescue mission encounters technical troubles as the Link spacecraft spins out of control in orbit while attempting to save the Swift gamma-ray observatory.
I Tested the "iPhone of Robot Vacuums"... Here's What Happened
Review of the Matic robot vacuum, positioned as a premium alternative in the robotic cleaning device market with a focus on design and performance.
After noise complaints, judge orders Waymo to stop overnight charging in Santa Monica
A Santa Monica judge ordered Waymo to stop overnight charging operations after noise complaints from residents, ruling the activity constitutes a public nuisance.
A Compact Game Controller For Your Phone
A compact USB gamepad built around Raspberry Pi Pico that connects to smartphones vertically, restoring tactile feedback for mobile gaming.
Casual Repair and Maintenance on an Amiga 1000
A detailed walkthrough of repairing and maintaining a 1985 Amiga 1000 computer, including recapping, cleaning, and upgrading vintage hardware.
Turning Glass Into a Touch-Sensitive Button
A maker demonstrates how to create a touch-sensitive button by coating glass with ITO (indium tin oxide), a conductive transparent material that enables pressure-sensitive input.
Galaxy Z Fold 8 Review: Honeymoon's Over
MKBHD reviews the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8, exploring whether the foldable flagship still delivers after the initial excitement wears off.
A Complex Way to Push a Button
A deep dive into automating a simple night light brightness control, revealing unexpected complexity in adding microcontroller logic to an unlabeled device.
Tiny Desktop Robot Has Radar
A maker builds TongDou, a tiny open-source desktop robot with radar, an OLED display, and wheels, designed to bring personality to workspaces.
Framework Laptops and a Robot Cleaner?
Waveform discusses the new Framework laptop, Apple's leasing program, and humanoid robot cleaning services in this week's tech roundup.
The Market Is Wrong About SpaceX
An analysis of market misconceptions about SpaceX's valuation and business prospects.
Framework 13 Pro: The Modular Laptop is Real!
MKBHD reviews the Framework 13 Pro, a modular laptop designed for Linux users with swappable components and customizable hardware.
Samsung Z Fold 8 (Wide) Impressions: Better Than I Thought!
MKBHD reviews Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8, highlighting the improved wide fold design and discussing the pricing strategy.
Premium: The Hater's Guide To The Memory Crisis
Analysis of how AI data center demand is driving up memory chip costs, examining the economics of HBM and LPDDR5X RAM in GPU server infrastructure.
Automation Makes The World Cup Worse. But We Can’t Help Ourselves, Can We?
World Cup automation through sensors and robot refs improves accuracy but diminishes the human drama that makes sports compelling.
Elon Musk Sold Investors The Future. Now SpaceX Has To Build It.
SpaceX goes public and must now deliver on ambitious promises made to investors about its future capabilities and growth.
Where We Go From Here
Analysis of the potential GPU market bubble and its trajectory, examining speculative market dynamics and animal spirits driving hardware demand.
Lagging Edge will have a Permanent Glut
Analysis of semiconductor industry facing prolonged glut in lagging-edge chips, with Texas Instruments cutting inventory and extending weak demand cycle.
Intel's One True Stakeholder is Here
The Trump administration is reportedly considering taking a stake in Intel, potentially marking a significant shift in the chipmaker's governance and future strategy.
Earnings: Hyperscalers, AMD, ALAB, ANET
Analysis of earnings reports from major hyperscalers and semiconductor companies including AMD, ALAB, and ANET.
Earnings: TSMC, NXPI, AEHR, GOOG, TXN, VAT, VICR
Earnings roundup covering TSMC, NXP, Akhan Semiconductor, Google, Texas Instruments, VAT, and Vicor with reflection on missed investment opportunities.