RIP software hackathons. Long live the hardware hackathon
blog.oscars.dev
June 9, 2026
3 min read
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61/100
Summary
A team at a hackathon in Vilnius integrated a Raspberry Pi into an old rotary phone, allowing it to communicate with a server via a websocket connection. This setup enabled two-way audio, control of the bell ringer with custom audio patterns, and operation of the hangup switch.
Key Takeaways
- A team integrated a Raspberry Pi into an old rotary phone to create a device that could communicate via a websocket and control audio playback through the Spotify API.
- The focus of hackathons has shifted from writing code to conceptualizing systems and interfacing with hardware.
- There is an anticipated increase in hardware hackathons, emphasizing the use of old technology and creative project ideas.
- The author advocates for hackathons to prioritize creativity and absurdity over practical business solutions.
Community Sentiment
Positives
- The accessibility of software tools has empowered more creators, leading to innovative projects that can significantly benefit society.
- The rise of affordable hardware like 3D printers is fostering a new wave of creativity, allowing individuals to transform ideas into tangible products.
Concerns
- Hackathons have shifted from collaborative building to competitive showcases, diminishing their original spirit of community and shared learning.
- Judging criteria in hackathons now prioritize polished presentations over functional ideas, which undermines the value of innovative concepts.
