iPod Upgrades, Square’s Voice Kiosk and a Cosmic Radio Mystery
Sprout replacement boards add modern connections to iPods, Square introduces a voice-enabled ordering kiosk, and new telescope research examines a treble-clef-shaped radio formation.
Sprout boards bring modern connections to older iPods
The Verge's October 14 report describes Sprout Pi and Sprout Pico as replacement iPod motherboards combining Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C, microSD storage and FLAC playback. Installation requires opening the iPod but does not require soldering. The firmware supports wired audio through USB or the original headphone jack, while Wi-Fi enables Google Cast and AirPlay streaming.
Square introduces a kiosk with conversational ordering
The Verge reports that Square is launching the Square Kiosk, a 21.5-inch touchscreen device with conversational voice AI for ordering. Square says customers can ask questions and request modifications or substitutions by speaking to the system. The company also says presence detection lets the kiosk welcome approaching customers. These capabilities are described in Square's product claims.
New research examines a treble-clef-shaped radio formation
NASA reports that a study published in Astronomy & Astrophysics on October 14 links the Treble Clef radio formation to a black hole outburst followed by a galaxy-cluster collision. Researchers combined X-ray, radio and infrared observations to examine the structure behind the Milky Way. They conclude that the collision likely compressed or reenergized particles, making their radio emission brighter again.
Would modern connections make you want to use an older music player again?
Connie Brew