New Music from an Old iPod

pdPod Postscript

Inside the iPod:  Laura Silver

The hacking process proved to be a good opportunity for conversation -- and disabusing me of the notion that hackers are insular and non-communicative. Au contraire, mes frères. These guys went out of their way to explain even the most minute details to me. Several times.

We ruminated on how to obtain more great-grand-pods and how to make the hacking process even more appealing for humanoid newcomers. We brainstormed other potential uses for the antiquated mp3 players: Building blocks? Paperweights? Insulation for homes of the future?

And we pounded out a few tunes (sometimes it sent the pod into a tailspin, requiring a restart). That's what reckless playing will do. In any case, making music with an old pod is possible, right now. And, all joking aside, Steiner has a vision of creating a live orchestra of people armed with Pd-laden iPods (Take that, junior high school band).

DiMauro is set on converting the shell of a 3rd-generation pod into a carrying case for smaller electronic bits and pieces.

And me? Well, all that tech talk primed me for another practical hack of my own: using the iPod's well-worn protective gel case as a snack holder. Supply list: one Oreo, two Lorna Doone biscuits, and four M&Ms (substitute wasabi peas or edamame, according to taste).

Four M&Ms and Two Cookies:  Laura Silver