I imagine it won’t look too different from the rendered ones and possibly their prototypes.
I also don’t think the fulfillment will be too far away.
1 Like
Yeah true, not expecting it to differ too much, there’s just something different about seeing a product in its physical form rather than just renderings. I’m not quite sure how to describe it.
on that last bit too haha.
1 Like
What even is that bottom left image in the collage lol. It looks like a board with some standoffs, maybe for mounting the boards during development?
3 Likes
Those might be used to connect some of the antennas?
This does look very similar to the Flipper Zero. That one uses pogo pins to connect the NFC antenna from what I can tell.
2 Likes
Hadn’t thought of that 
you might be right.
Dear Backers,
Thank you for your continued support and patience. We’ve been holding off on posting an update because we wanted to provide a clear guideline for delivery dates. However, we feel that an update is long overdue, so we’re sharing our current progress and challenges now. Rather than have everyone wait for an update after all issues are resolved, we’ve chosen to present things as they are, believing honesty and transparency are the best policy. We apologize for any inconvenience that not having a prompt update (after update #9) may have caused.
We decided to switch to the ESP32-C6 variant, which will give the M1 WiFi 6 capability as well as enhanced Bluetooth functionality. Besides performance considerations, one of the key reasons for switching to the new module was the limited support for the Murata 1DX. Our priority is to ensure that the product meets the highest standards of quality and reliability, which are crucial for the long-term success of the product.
We have also decided to switch to a more standard battery size, the 3.7V 3000mAh 103665, because lead times and availability were poor for the custom size we originally planned for. This change will provide better battery life and greater availability, ensuring a more reliable supply chain. Additionally, it fulfills requests by backers to have a replaceable, readily available battery.
Your trust and feedback have been invaluable, motivating us to address these complexities with openness and dedication. Rest assured, we are actively working to minimize any delays.
- Transition to ESP32-C6 WiFi Modules: Enhancing performance and supporting additional features.
- Battery Size Change: Switching to the 3.7V 3000mAh 103665 for better battery life and availability.
- Hardware Compatibility: Ensuring the new components integrate seamlessly with existing hardware interfaces, requiring redesigns of connectors and layouts.
- Firmware Updates: Modifications needed to accommodate new features, potentially impacting system stability and requiring extensive testing.
- Driver Support: Development and integration of new drivers specific to the ESP32-C6, ensuring reliable operation with existing system architecture.
- Testing and Validation: Comprehensive testing to ensure performance benchmarks and compliance with industry standards, which could extend development timelines.
- Supply Chain Adjustments: Coordinating with suppliers for new module availability and managing potential lead time increases.
- Documentation Changes: Updating user manuals, technical guides, and service manuals to reflect the new components and changes in operation.
- Battery Management Adjustments: Modifying systems and charging circuits.
- Mechanical Engineering Cooperation: Reiterations with the engineering firm for optimal fit of the new battery.
- Housing Adjustments: Redesigning the casing to accommodate the new battery size without changes in form factor.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring the updated design complies with safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards.
- Packaging Updates: Modifying designs to fit new device dimensions.
We strongly believed that the change would not be so slow to implement, but it’s proven to be more costly in terms of time than we originally anticipated. We would rather be forthcoming with any challenges, and we apologize that this information hasn’t been presented earlier. None of these issues are significantly detrimental to the success of the project, as you can probably tell.
Thank you for your understanding and hope you realize that some delays can happen, but we are still fully committed to delivering your rewards. In following updates, we will provide more detail and a clear guideline on how these changes impact the project. We’ll keep you posted on our progress and can’t wait to bring you something you’ll be proud to support.
2 Likes
These changes makes it a bit more appealing, the esp base is a bit more user friendly.
And it seems like they will accept flipper modules?
They seam to imply it without saying it outright …
2 Likes
For some reason they didn’t send out the email update
This is direct from the Kickstarter page 01/08/2024
Update #11
MonstatekCreator
August 1, 2024
Hello MonstaTek Backers!
First, we want to apologize for the delay. We made every effort to stick to the timeline, but sometimes unforeseen circumstances arise, especially in the development of tech products. Even minor changes can require additional time to implement and test. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work through these challenges.
Your backing helps us bring the MonstaTek M1 to life, and we truly appreciate your support. We would like to take this time to clear up some things and answer some common backer questions. Some of the following information may be repetitive, but we believe it’s important to provide a clear understanding of the situation.
General Questions
Q: How does the Kickstarter reward system work?
A: We understand there has been some confusion about how Kickstarter works. This campaign is intended to fund the development and production of MonstaTek, rather than offering immediate product sales. When you back a Kickstarter project, you’re supporting the creation of something new from the ground up. In return for your support, you receive rewards based on your pledge level. These rewards will be delivered once the product has completed development and production.
Since March, we have been receiving emails and messages asking whether the rewards have been shipped or why the delivery is late. Initially, delivery was projected for the end of July as indicated in the project roadmap. This has been extended out two months due to necessary revisions.
We want to reassure you that the development and production process is ongoing, and we are working diligently to ensure that MonstaTek M1 meets our high standards before shipping.
We understand that most of you are familiar with this process, but for those who are new to Kickstarter, we appreciate your patience and support as we work to deliver a high-quality product. Future updates will provide more technical information and visuals.
Q: Why is there a delay in the production timeline?
A: The first part of the delay is due to our decision to incorporate the ESP-32 C6 instead of the Murata 1DX. This change was made to enhance the performance and capabilities of MonstaTek, but it required additional time for redesign and testing to ensure compatibility and optimal function.
Q: What specific improvements does the ESP-32 C6 bring to the product?
A: The ESP-32 C6 brings several key improvements to the product, including WiFi 6 capability and enhanced Bluetooth functionality. WiFi 6 offers faster data transfer rates, improved network efficiency, and better performance in environments with many connected devices. Enhanced Bluetooth functionality allows for more reliable connections and improved communication range. These upgrades contribute to a more robust and future-proof device, ensuring better overall performance and user experience.
Q: What challenges are there in incorporating the new module?
A: The primary challenges involve placement and dealing with the size of the new module. Adjusting the design to accommodate the ESP-32 C6 requires careful consideration to ensure proper fit and functionality within the existing housing.
Q: What other changes have contributed to the delay?
A: Another factor contributing to the delay is the adjustment in the housing design to accommodate a larger battery. This change will significantly improve battery life and overall user experience but necessitated redesigning the housing and additional testing to ensure durability and proper fit.
Q: Why does the housing need to be changed to accommodate a different battery size?
A: The change to a larger battery required a redesign of the housing to ensure it fits properly and securely within the device. A larger battery enhances the overall performance and extends the usage time of MonstaTek, but it also means we need to ensure the new battery integrates seamlessly with the existing components. This redesign process involves thorough testing to maintain the product’s durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.
Q: How long is the delay expected to be?
A: The delay is expected to be approximately 8 weeks from the original shipping date, which was the end of July as indicated on the campaign page and in the FAQ section.
Q: What is the current status of the production process?
A: We are currently in the stages of finalizing designs and testing. We decided to switch to the ESP32-C6 variant, which will give the M1 WiFi 6 capability as well as enhanced Bluetooth functionality. Besides performance considerations, one of the key reasons for switching to the new module was the limited support for the Murata 1DX. Our priority is to ensure that the product meets the highest standards of quality and reliability, which are crucial for the long-term success of the product.
We have also decided to switch to a more standard battery size, the 3.7V 3000mAh 103665, because lead times and availability were poor for the custom size we originally planned for. This change will provide better battery life and greater availability, ensuring a more reliable supply chain. Additionally, it fulfills requests by backers to have a replaceable, readily available battery.
We will be following up with more details on the technical aspects of the project and provide visuals to give you a better understanding of the progress and changes.
Q: Why might there not be immediate responses to messages, comments, and emails?
A: Like any other company, we have designated hours of operation. Our hours of operation are 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, PST. Any messages, comments, or correspondence received outside of these hours will be addressed during the next business day. Please understand that we do not ask our staff to be available 24 hours a day, but we are committed to responding to your inquiries in a timely manner. We appreciate your patience and understanding.
Q: What steps are involved in the product development process?
A: The product development process includes several key stages: conceptual design, prototyping, testing, redesign based on feedback, finalizing designs, production, and quality assurance.
Q: Can I still update my shipping information?
A: Yes, you can update your shipping information by logging into the Pledge Manager at https://my.pledgemanager.com/ and making the necessary changes. If you encounter any issues, please contact our support team at support@monstatek.com, and we will assist you in updating your details.
Q: How can I provide feedback or suggestions for future updates?
A: We value your input and want to ensure our updates are as informative and helpful as possible. Please let us know what specific details or topics you would like to see covered in future updates. You can share your feedback and suggestions through the Kickstarter messaging system or by emailing us at support@monstatek.com.
Q: How can I stay updated on the progress of the project?
A: We encourage all backers to regularly check the Kickstarter updates section, as this is where we will post the latest news, including any changes to the timeline. Additionally, you can follow us on our blog for more technical information on the development process. We are committed to keeping you informed, and we appreciate your ongoing support and enthusiasm for the M1.
Q: What happens if the delay extends beyond the expected timeline?
A: While we are working diligently to adhere to the new timeline, we understand that unforeseen circumstances can sometimes cause further delays. If this happens, we will promptly communicate the reasons and revised timeline to all backers. We are dedicated to transparency and will continue to prioritize quality and reliability in our product development. Your trust and support are invaluable to us, and we aim to deliver a product that exceeds your expectations. We have also offered refunds to those that do not wish to wait.
Prioritization and Shipping of Kickstarter Rewards
Q: Will Kickstarter backers receive their rewards before supporters from subsequent campaigns?
A: Yes, Kickstarter backers are our top priority and will receive their rewards before those who supported us through subsequent campaigns. We are dedicated to fulfilling all Kickstarter pledges first, as a sign of appreciation for your early support and trust in our project.
Q: How will the shipping process be managed between different groups of supporters?
A: Our fulfillment strategy prioritizes Kickstarter backers. The shipping process will commence with fulfilling all Kickstarter rewards. Only after completing these shipments will we begin dispatching rewards to supporters from other channels. This structured approach guarantees that our initial backers receive their MonstaTek M1 units first.
Q: What can backers expect in terms of communication during the shipping process?
A: We will maintain open communication with all backers through updates and direct messaging. These updates will cover production status, expected shipping dates, and tracking information once the rewards have been shipped.
Warranty and Support
Q: What warranty does the MonstaTek M1 come with?
A: The M1 comes with a comprehensive one-year warranty. This warranty guarantees that the product is free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use for one year from the date of purchase. If your device experiences a defect during this period, we will provide repair or replacement services.
We appreciate your continued support and understanding as we work through these challenges. We’ll provide a more detailed update soon, covering the milestones we’ve reached and what’s coming next.
Best regards,
The MonstaTek Team
3 Likes
These updates always scare me. At least they are not offering further “options” you can pay for…
1 Like
This one seems legit, Interesting that they offer refunds for those who don’t want to wait. That doesn’t happen often in crowd funding>
4 Likes
Update #12
MonstatekCreator
August 29, 2024
Dear Backers,
In this update, we’re focusing on a few key areas of progress within the M1 project. We’ll detail some of the advancements made so far, particularly in the technical improvements we’ve implemented. These changes have been crucial in refining the overall design and ensuring optimal performance. We’ve also taken steps to address some of the challenges we encountered during the development process.
Project Schematics
We are sharing the schematics for the M1. These schematics offer a detailed view of the internal layout and design, giving you insight into the structure and organization of the key components.
These diagrams reflect our careful work to ensure that all components are positioned for optimal performance, stability, and durability (we’ll also upload them to the blog so they can be better viewed). We are refining this design to ensure everything functions as we move toward final production
Below, we’ll cover what’s been implemented, followed by further refinements to the internal structure and PCB layout. This update focuses on several technical and design advancements that have been implemented. While this one will focus on descriptions of the work we’ve done, you can expect photos, videos, and other “real” visuals in upcoming updates.
To further enhance the performance of the ESP32-C6 integration, we’ve focused on minimizing signal loss by carefully designing the PCB trace leading to the antenna. This ensures that the transmission strength remains high, which is especially important for maintaining stable connections in environments with many wireless signals. Additionally, we’ve taken steps to improve the grounding design of the PCB, which minimizes electromagnetic interference (EMI) and ensures that all wireless signals, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, remain stable even in environments with potential interference.
ESP32-C6 Integration
The image above showcases the implementation of the ESP32-C6, which is a major step forward for enabling advanced wireless capabilities, including Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. Here are the key highlights of this integration:
Antenna Cutoff Design: On the top left of the PCB, you’ll notice a dedicated cut-off for the ESP32-C6 antenna. This design prevents interference from other components, ensuring optimal wireless performance and signal integrity.
Mounting Points: The red circles highlight critical mounting points that ensure the PCB remains securely in place within the enclosure. These mounting points not only keep everything stable but also support better thermal management, which is crucial when dealing with wireless communication.
Inner Space and Structural Enhancements
Flat Front Panel Design: To increase the inner space without compromising the external dimensions, we’ve updated the front panel to a flat design. This allows us to pack more components in a more efficient manner, while maintaining the sleek look of the device.
Battery Fit: Battery dimensions were optimized to ensure compatibility and efficient use of space. This helps us maximize power without increasing the overall footprint.
Snap-Fit Design: The third PCB features a snap-fit design with the back outer shell, improving structural integrity and eliminating the need for additional fasteners, which reduces weight and assembly complexity.
Main PCB Board Rev 2 Updates
We’ve also made several revisions to the main PCB design to further enhance the functionality and assembly:
-Reduced Display Height: To free up more space and ensure a slimmer profile, the display height has been reduced to 4mm.
-Front Component Adjustments: Several front-mounted components have been repositioned to avoid interference with the mounting structures. Notably:
-Capacitors and other small components near the front of the board have been shifted slightly to provide more clearance for mounting. Additional components have been adjusted to ensure they fit better within the enclosure.
-Battery Connector: To avoid interference with the mounting structures, the battery connector has been repositioned. Key components near the battery connector were shifted to ensure a secure fit with the surrounding elements.The battery connector itself has been moved slightly to improve alignment and avoid overlap with nearby parts.
-Buttons & LEDs Alignment: To achieve a more balanced design, the buttons have been aligned with the center of the display. Key adjustments include:
-Several resistors and other related components were repositioned for better symmetry in relation to the display. Other small components were adjusted to provide better spacing from nearby parts.
-The LED was realigned to sit closer to the edge, ensuring it doesn’t interfere with adjacent components.
Other small parts, including buttons and sensors, were shifted slightly to create a more uniform and balanced layout across the board.
We’re announcing that soon we will make our repositories open to the public. This will include parts of our codebase for backers to review, as well as the hardware design files. By providing access to these resources, we aim to foster transparency and collaboration. We believe this will also give you a deeper insight into the development process and enable backers to contribute feedback.
In addition to the technical advancements, we’ve also been working on refining the user interface and overall user experience. Our goal is to ensure that M1 is not only powerful but also intuitive and user-friendly.
As part of our commitment to sustainability, we’ve been diligently exploring eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient components for the M1. We believe that creating a high-performance product goes hand-in-hand with environmental responsibility. That’s why we’re not just focusing on what’s inside the device, but also how it’s delivered to you.
We’re putting the same care into designing our packaging by considering eco-friendly options that reduce waste and minimize our environmental footprint. From recyclable materials to innovative designs that use less material, we’re dedicated to making sure that MonstaTek is as green as possible from start to finish. We look forward to sharing more details about our sustainable packaging initiatives in forthcoming updates.
Thank you for your continued support!
Best regards,
The MonstaTek Team
3 Likes
Kickstarter
Update #13
Posted by Monstatek
Oct 2, 2024
View on Kickstarter
Hello MonstaTek Backers,
We’d like to share that we’ve achieved some critical milestones in the development of the MonstaTek M1, including the completion of the core PCB design and significant progress on firmware development. These are major steps forward in bringing the product to life. Our software team has also made considerable progress, with core functionality nearing completion and final testing and refinements well underway. While there are still a few minor adjustments to be made, we are confident that we’re close to finishing these tasks.
However, as is often the case with innovative projects and new enterprises, we have encountered a handful of challenges that have led to delays in our original timeline. One of the main reasons for this delay has been the fine-tuning of the mechanical design and housing. Initially, we felt confident in our design, but further testing revealed that certain adjustments were necessary to ensure that the durability and overall user experience met our high standards. This has required more time than we had anticipated.
In addition to the mechanical design adjustments, we’ve also faced difficulties in sourcing the necessary components due to ongoing global supply chain issues. Shortages and longer lead times on some key parts have been a recurring obstacle. In some cases, components used in our early prototypes are no longer available, and we’ve had to find and test comparable replacements that are more readily accessible to the factory. This has added unexpected time to our production process. We remain committed to sourcing the highest quality parts to ensure that the final product will meet the high standards we have set for the MonstaTek M1.
We also want to take a moment to acknowledge that our initial timeline projections were perhaps a bit too aggressive. We realize that we didn’t leave ample room for potential setbacks or unforeseen issues during the development process. Although it was never our intention to misrepresent our timeline, in retrospect, we should have built in more margin for these kinds of challenges. We understand that this may be frustrating for some of you, and we sincerely appreciate your patience as we work to deliver the MonstaTek M1 as quickly as possible without compromising on quality. We assure you that the reward will most definitely have been worth the wait.
One of the most crucial components of the MonstaTek M1 is the coil antenna, which enables the device’s long-range, low-power communication capabilities within the Sub-1GHz range. This functionality, particularly across the 433 MHz, 868 MHz, and 915 MHz ISM bands, is central to the MonstaTek M1’s design, and supports use cases like industrial gate control and security testing through the capture and replay of remote control signals. During the development of the Main PCB, we encountered a challenge with fitting the coil antenna within the available space on the board while ensuring optimal performance. While early prototypes may not have fully accounted for these concerns, ensuring regulatory compliance is now a critical focus as we prepare for manufacturing and market release.
We are a startup consisting of a small team, so we often find ourselves wearing multiple hats, assuming different roles and undertaking various tasks at once. While we have put a lot of effort into community engagement and public relations, we recognize there is always room for improvement. We are committed to improving our communication with you and appreciate your patience and understanding as we work through the challenges of balancing product development while maintaining an open channel and keeping you informed.
Looking ahead, we are targeting the next stages to finalize the remaining steps, including resolving harmonics issues, completing component sourcing, and preparing for critical certification approvals like FCC and CE. These are some of the last major hurdles before we move into manufacturing. Although our schedule has shifted slightly, we are confident that we are in the final stretch and are nearly there. We are doing everything we can to fulfill rewards by the end of the year, and we are optimistic about starting to ship units in December.
We understand it’s disappointing for backers to wait, but we are doing our best and are nearing the finish line.We want to thank you once again for your continued support and patience throughout this journey. We couldn’t have come this far without you, and we’re excited to deliver a product that we believe will exceed your expectations. Stay tuned for more updates, and we’ll be sharing visuals of the MonstaTek M1 with you very soon!
Update #14
Sophie H.Collaborator
October 22, 2024
Backer Update: MonstaTek M1 Development Progress
We’re excited to share a glimpse of the latest prototype development for the MonstaTek M1. We thought we’d show you some hands-on visuals of our recent progress. But first some schematics covering the battery , fuel gauge and power supply rails.
Housing
The images here showcase our recent batch of prototypes for the M1. These prototypes allow us to test the device’s form factor, component placement, and overall ergonomics. We’ve designed each one to ensure a snug fit for all the components while providing a comfortable grip.
Full Device Assembly
Here is our fully assembled prototype of the M1, complete with the screen, buttons, and lanyard. We’re sparing no effort to ensure that screen alignment and button response are accurate, as well as adjustments to enhance functionality and usability.
Hands-On Interaction
We’ve also tested the device’s ergonomics and handling to get an idea of how the M1 will feel in your hand. The lanyard adds to the device’s convenience, making it easy to carry and use on the go.
We have also focused on refining the housing design for better durability and ease of assembly. We’ve finalized the internal components’ layout to make sure that everything is secure and functional before we move onto the next phase of development.
Software Development
Alongside hardware refinements, our software team has been actively working on the M1’s firmware. We’ve made significant strides in improving the user interface and enhancing features like screen calibration, button response, and OTA (Over-the-Air) updates. These software improvements are being tested in tandem with the new housing to ensure flawless integration and user experience.
We’re also working on producing videos that will feature the M1. These videos aim to give you a closer look at the device, providing visual updates as we make progress.
Your continued support means the world to us, and we appreciate your patience as we work to bring the M1 to life. We’ll have more updates for you soon!
3 Likes
That’s all very encouraging. Really looking forward to receiving this.
My only pet peeve is the ever-present misunderstanding that ergonomics is the study of how comfortable something is to hold while you use it. Still, engineers… hrumph…
1 Like
Update #15
Sophie H.Collaborator
December 7, 2024
Greetings, Backers!
As 2024 begins to wind down, we wanted to give you a comprehensive update on the MonstaTek M1. We realize we’ve been quiet for a little while, and we’re overdue for a progress report. Part of this delay is due to our cautious use of expenses. As a small company that has to be very prudent with our funds, we chose to devote the bulk of our efforts on development rather than the promotional side of things. We’ve spared no expense when it comes to the quality of our device, but we’ve avoided what we felt might be a hasty use of money. However, we also realize that some of you are anxious for more visual presentations, and we will do our best to provide more visuals to make backers feel more comfortable.
It has been a roller coaster of a year, to say the least, and we do find ourselves farther behind schedule than we had anticipated. While we’ve made great strides, we still have some annoying hurdles to get over before reaching the finish line. When we launched this project, we had taken into account that most projects of this type are bound to exceed their forecasted timelines due to unforeseen circumstances. . . but it seems we underestimated how much of a delay we ourselves would run into. So, it is with a big slice of humble pie that we admit we may have been a bit overly exuberant about the entire process. We’re just learning from experience that a startup doesn’t receive nearly the same level of support from vendors and manufacturers. The support that larger corporations get to enjoy is far more timely and robust. Having said that, we are still extremely confident that this project will definitely not take as long as certain other similar Kickstarter projects. Yes, we are behind schedule, but yes, we are still full steam ahead and entirely encouraged by the eventual outcome. So, this is where we’re at:
The MonstaTek M1 is in its final stages of development, with most of the core design and functionality nearly wrapped up. However, while making the transition from prototyping to full-scale production of the real deal, we’ve hit a few snags that require time and attention (and a whole lot of coffee).
A challenge we currently face is regarding our progress toward certification. We had contracted a firm to assist in antenna development, a critical component of the device. And we planned our project corresponding to their assurances and timeline estimates. . . unfortunately, despite our best collaborative efforts, they were not able to deliver as we had expected.
The firm attributes the delays to challenges in the design and simulation phase, citing difficulties in meeting the desired performance parameters (such as frequency range, gain, and efficiency). While the issues are technical in nature, they are more a matter of time rather than feasibility. We remain confident that these challenges will be resolved with a little persistence.
That said, we take full responsibility for the project’s success. As the creators of the MonstaTek M1, it falls on our shoulders to overcome these challenges, and we are fully committed to doing just that.
(This is part 1 of a 2 part update. Part 2 will present photos of the actual hardware)
The MonstaTek M1 has to meet strict regulatory requirements for electromagnetic interference (EMI), radio frequency (RF), and safety compliance across multiple regions. Each of these certifications involves rigorous testing, documentation, and occasional design adjustments to attain full approval.
Furthermore, the documentation required for certification is extensive and exhaustingly detailed, (encompassing technical specifications, testing procedures, and safety protocols). Preparing these materials is a time-consuming but necessary step to satisfy regulatory bodies. Our team is working closely with certification experts to ensure every aspect of the MonstaTek M1 meets the requirements.
These certifications, (as frustrating as they may be), are not simply about passing technical tests. They are also a guarantee of trust and quality for our backers. We need to ensure that the MonstaTek M1 meets or exceeds the safety/performance standards expected of a professional-grade device, so it can be confidently used across a wide range of applications.
Supply Chain Update
We want to keep you informed about external factors that hopefully won’t affect our progress. South Korea, where much of our production and logistics occur, is experiencing some supply chain challenges. A railway workers’ strike has reduced freight operations, and recent political events have caused minor disruptions in logistics.
At this stage, we don’t foresee significant issues impacting our progress, but these are factors we’re watching closely to ensure we’re prepared for any changes. Your understanding and support mean a lot as we navigate these dynamics, and we remain committed to keeping you updated. We deeply appreciate your continued patience and support as we work hard to bring the MonstaTek M1 to life. This is only Part 1 of a two-part update, so don’t go anywhere – we’ll be back very soon with more.
Update #16
Sophie H.Collaborator
January 1, 2025
MonstaTek M1: Update (Part 2)
We’d like to share some visuals of the MonstaTek M1 hardware and provide more details on where we currently stand in the development process. These images showcase the latest iteration of the device, highlighting the progress we’ve made as we move closer to production.
The boards featured represent the most recent version of the MonstaTek M1 hardware. Key components, such as the Sub-1GHz transceiver module, display integration, and button layout, have been carefully refined through iterative design and testing. These updates reflect the technical improvements made to ensure functionality.
The prototyping and testing phases are largely complete, with only a few minor adjustments left to finalize the hardware for production readiness. In the images, you’ll notice a side-by-side comparison with an earlier beta prototype (bottom left), showcasing the significant evolution of the device as it moves toward its final form.
Meanwhile, firmware development has been progressing steadily alongside hardware work. We’ve made great strides in functionality and are fine-tuning critical aspects of the RF functions. Additionally, work continues on refining the graphical user interface (GUI) to ensure it is clean, intuitive, and ready to deliver excellent user experience.
On the mechanical side, we are preparing to transition to mold production for the MonstaTek M1’s final housing. This involves working closely with our manufacturing partners to finalize the design and ensure all specifications are met before tooling begins. Mold production is a critical step that transforms the device from its prototype stage into a ready-to-manufacture product. While this process requires meticulous precision, it brings us one step closer to mass production and delivering the finished product to you.
As mentioned in Part 1, we know many of you are eager to hear about delivery timelines. We’re taking a cautious and deliberate approach to ensure we provide the most accurate information possible. Shortly after the New Year, we’ll share an updated timeline that reflects the remaining steps in the process.
We’d love to hear from you! Let us know what you’d like to see in future updates, whether it’s more technical insights, behind-the-scenes details, or other aspects of the project. Your feedback is incredibly valuable and helps us tailor these updates to what matters most to you.
Thank you again for your patience and support as we work hard to bring the MonstaTek M1 to life.
2 Likes
This update gives me absolutely no confidence in the fulfilment of the M1 anytime soon.
They say they are making good progress on the firmware but with such a small team and such a long list of complex embedded devices, there is no chance it will have more than surface-level support and structure in place for the vast majority of features IE, it may be able to tell you what kind of card you scanned but won’t be able to do memory operations/reads, key handling, cloning etc. They are likely planning on riding on communal support to develop the firmware as the flipper did.
The Flipper is 4 years old and was (and is) able to bank on its popularity and uniqueness as a multitool to draw in communal development, if/when the M1 comes out I can’t see it having nearly the same level of hype and support, given the disappointing campaign delays and communications that sound more like stalling for time than actual progress updates given the contradictions in their progress statements, and the fact their product simply is not the first of its kind or offering anything groundbreaking i imagine it will be very hard to stir up anything close to the support the flipper had at launch.
TLDR; if the M1 ever does ship, it’s going to be years before it gets to the level of functionality the flipper currently has, it is going to feel like a burden and most people are going to chuck it in a drawer and wait for the firmware to get better instead of actively engaging in the development themselves.
it is going to turn out like the chameleon ultra.
7 Likes
Someone said a good word for Chameleon Ultra today
“abandonware”
With that said I got the impression that M1 was going to “fork” F0 firmware and ride on that code? If not then it is a massive undertaking
4 Likes
is that one kid not still developing for it? I heard he was like an 18yr old kid doing it in his spare time.
1 Like