I think even younger. He is doing the GUI. The firmware is silent
1 Like
Are yâall talking about GameTec_live? Over on the discord?
https://gametec-live.com/
Heâs doing some Gui stuff
Update #17Backers only
Update #17
Sophie H.Collaborator
February 4, 2025
Hello MonstaTek Community,
First, we want to extend a huge thank-you for your continued support . Your feedback and insights have been essential in shaping the MonstaTek M1, and weâd like to share more about the progress weâve made as we move closer to production. Letâs dive in!
Finalizing Mold Designs: A Major Milestone
Weâre glad to announce that the mold designs for the MonstaTek M1 have been finalized! As we finalize our transition from prototyping to production, one key factor has been Design for Manufacturability (DFM) reports from our partnered factory. DFM reports are a crucial part of the manufacturing process, as they help identify potential production challenges early on. These reports assess factors such as material selection, tooling feasibility, tolerances, and potential issues that could impact mass production efficiency.
Weâve been awaiting these reports to ensure that the MonstaTek M1âs design is optimized for large-scale manufacturing without compromising quality or performance. While this step can take time, itâs an essential safeguard to prevent costly delays or reworks down the line.
This is a critical step in transforming our prototypes into production-ready devices. Over the past few weeks, our engineering team has worked closely with manufacturing partners to ensure that every detailâfrom tolerances to material selectionâis up to standard.
The molds are now being crafted by expert CNC machinists using high-grade materials. Once complete, the molds will undergo quality checks, and weâll run test batches to validate every componentâs fit, finish, and durability. This process ensures the M1âs housing will meet the high standards of functionality and reliability weâre committed to delivering.
Next Steps: Pre-Production Testing
After the molds pass inspection, weâll move into pre-production testing. This phase involves creating a limited batch of M1 units to fine-tune the assembly process and confirm component compatibility. Each unit will be tested to ensure flawless functionality and structural integrity.
This is our final step to address any potential issues before mass production begins. Thanks to your input during earlier stages, weâre confident that these pre-production units will live up to expectations.
Firmware Development: Refining the Experience
Firmware development continues steadily alongside hardware progress. Our primary focus is on ensuring the M1âs core functionality is robust and reliable. Weâre fine-tuning key aspects of the firmware to optimize performance and create a smooth, intuitive user experience.
Certifications Underway
As we prepare the M1 for market, regulatory certifications are a top priority. Weâve begun the processes for FCC certification in the U.S. and CE certification for Europe, ensuring compliance with safety, performance, and electromagnetic compatibility standards. These certifications are essential for bringing the M1 to users.
Design Adjustments: Staying True to the Vision
Some of you may have noticed changes in the M1âs design compared to early renders. These refinements are the result of real-world testing and user feedback, improving aspects such as heat dissipation, structural integrity, and overall usability. While these adjustments may alter some aesthetic details, the core functionality and vision for the M1 remain intact.
Looking Ahead: Whatâs Next?
Hereâs what you can expect in the coming weeks:
Completion of Mold Construction: Once finalized, molds will enable pre-production testing and help us identify any final tweaks.
Pre-Production Testing: Weâll assemble and evaluate a batch of M1 units to ensure everything is production-ready.
Updated Shipping Timeline: After pre-production testing, weâll announce a clear timeline for shipping.
Thank You for Your Continued Support
Thank you for sticking with us as we work to make the MonstaTek M1 the best it can be. We are filled with anticipation as we get closer to delivering a product that meets your expectations.
2 Likes
Update #18Backers only
Update #18
Sophie H.Collaborator
March 8, 2025
Hello M1 Backers,
Hereâs the latest on our progress â the good, the bad, and the pretty. We encountered a few minor issues with the fit and alignment of certain components. The process involved implementing several modifications to address interference issues caused by the layout of key components; followed by an in-depth analysis and verification of circuit characteristics, as well as validation of the specifications of these essential parts. Subsequent steps included rigorous testing of the power circuit to assess both operating and standby currents, and verifying the performance of the WiFi module to ensure optimal antenna placement. Additionally, the power line circuit was specifically designed to address EMI concerns, and comprehensive checks were carried out to confirm the functionality of the IR receiver and transmitter alongside other key components for the upcoming full-scale production ramp-up.
One area that has presented a bit of an unexpected challenge is the FCC compliance process. As is standard for any product incorporating wireless components, thereâs a rigorous certification procedure to ensure full compliance with all regulatory standards. Some of the hurdles weâve faced arise from nuanced interactions between componentsâinteractions that arenât always apparent in early-stage design simulations but become far more noticeable during real-world compliance testing. While these issues are entirely manageable, they have required a fair amount of back-and-forth with the testing lab, along with a series of targeted design tweaks to bring everything into perfect alignment. This is particularly true for the sub-1GHz wireless functionality, which demands meticulous attention to detail required to meet the stringent regulatory requirements. Our engineering team is collaborating closely with our testing partners to keep this process moving forward as efficiently as possible, and weâre confident that we have this aspect fully resolved.
Weâre taking an especially thorough approach because the FCC testing process typically spans four to six weeks. Additionally, if we donât pass on the first attempt for any reason, the retesting phase can introduce further delays to the timeline. Rather than rushing the process, weâre taking additional time now to carefully address every detail, setting ourselves up for a seamless approval process and minimizing potential delays down the road.
Weâre taking an especially thorough approach because the FCC testing process typically spans four to six weeks. Additionally, if we donât pass on the first attempt for any reason, the retesting phase can introduce further delays to the timeline. Rather than rushing the process, weâre taking additional time now to carefully address every detail, setting ourselves up for a seamless approval process and minimizing potential delays down the road.
With our tech packs (design blueprints) done, we have now moved on to the mold production. Molds have been ordered and we are a little over 2 weeks in on the 5-week process. At this early stage, the mold production is proceeding according to plan, with initial quality checks already underway to ensure that every detail meets our requirements. During the remaining weeks, further testing and fine-tuning will be carried out to confirm the moldsâ accuracy and durability, ensuring they can consistently reproduce the high-quality parts needed for production.
We want to address a concern regarding recent developments around new tariffs, as these directly impact the M1 due to its overseas manufacturing. A tariff rate of 20% on imported goods has now been confirmed, which could significantly increase our production costs and subsequently affect shipping fees or overall budgeting. We proactively held off on providing this update for a couple of days, hoping for more clarity on the situation, but it remains volatile. In response, we are actively exploring all available optionsâincluding adjusting logistics strategies and negotiating with our suppliersâto minimize any negative impact.
Lastly, weâre pleased to announce that our team is scheduled to visit our manufacturing partnerâs facility later this month. During this visit, weâll review assembly preparations, verify production readiness, and work closely with the on-site team to ensure everything is aligned for smooth production. We look forward to sharing updates and insights from this visit, keeping you closely connected to every step as we advance toward bringing the M1 into your hands.
We deeply appreciate your continued support as we work through these various twists and turns.Thank you for standing by us as we bring the M1 closer to reality.
2 Likes
Ngl I like the design and Iâm also impressed itâs still a thing
3 Likes
Update #19
Sophie H.Collaborator
April 8, 2025
Hello M1 Backers,
Itâs been a busy month since our last check-in, and weâve made big strides.
Mold Production Update
The mold production process is nearing completion. Over the past week, weâve been working closely with the mold fabricators, hammering out details to ensure reliable full-scale production. A round of quality inspections has been completed, and the molds are looking good. The fabricators are currently finalizing the design and placement of the ejector system components.
We expect the molds to be finalized by mid-to-late April (depending on how much fine-tuning is required post-production), at which point weâll conduct a final round of testing to confirm theyâre ready to produce M1 components.
Weâve procured almost all our components needed for the M1. Most parts are now stocked or scheduled to arrive for our pilot production run. Our LCD module and MCU take a while longer, but weâve already placed orders and donât expect that this will delay us. Our suppliers assure us the components are in stock and delivery will be timely.
Software Development Progress
On the firmware side, our team has been burning the midnight coil. Hereâs a breakdown of our âdoneâs and âto-doâs to give you a clearer picture of how things are shaping up:
Core Functionality: Weâve nailed down the foundational parts that make the system tick. Weâre now focused on optimizing performance and ironing out a few remaining bugs to get it just right.
Feature Implementation: The bells and whistles that make this project special are coming together nicely. Many of the planned features are already operational. Weâre psyched about how theyâre turning out.
User Interface: On the UI front, weâve got the framework in place and are now adding the polishâsmoother interactions and a more intuitive experience.
Overall, weâre on a solid trajectory, and everything is falling into place.
GPIO Pins
Weâve had a few backer messages asking about our external GPIO pin configuration. Here is a table with the basic configuration. We will provide more details soon.
Manufacturing Facility Visit
In other news, our team is visiting the factory. Weâve been looking forward to seeing the actual assembly lines where the units will be born.
The following are some essential tasks for the trip:
- Review component storage - Check how components are being stored.
- Confirm part arrivals - Verify that all key components are on-site or scheduled for delivery.
- Check jigs, tools, and fixtures - Check set up, match product requirements, and assembly readiness.
- Set expectations for reporting - How often we get updates and what the escalation process is if an issue should arise.
- Confirm timelines - Receive a documented schedule for production, testing, packaging, and shipping.
- Quality Control Check: Review the factoryâs testing procedures and acceptance criteria.
Weâll come back with a full recap to let you know how our trip went.
Whatâs Next?
The next step is getting ready to assemble pre-production units. Production of a pilot batch of M1 units is necessary to test the entire assembly process from start to finish. This will allow us to catch any glitches in the system. Other tests that go along with this phase are EMI, durability, power consumption, and stress tests.
Gratefully,
The M1 Team
1 Like
Apologies, it doesnât copy and paste well from the email or kickstarter webpage on a phone.
The formatting isnât quite right, but all the info is there
enjoy
Kickstarter
Update #20
Posted by Sophie H.
May 11, 2025
View on Kickstarter
For backers only
Update #20
Production & Development
Hereâs where things stand as we move into a critical phase of the M1 timeline.
The mold is nearly finished and early tests have been promising. That said, we found a few areas where the cooling system needs refinement. Although small batch production went without a hitch, itâs still a necessary step. These are relatively minor adjustments, but theyâre crucial to ensuring the molds maintain consistent performance during extended high-volume production. The team is implementing these changes now, and once complete, weâll run a final validation to close out the tooling phase.
Weâve also completed the pilot batch of M1 units. This test run was essential to confirm that our design translates well to real-world manufacturing. We used full production parts, built the devices using the actual tools and processes intended for mass production, and monitored every step of the assembly line. The units came together cleanly, and the build quality met our expectations across the board.
All key componentsâincluding the LCD modules and MCUs we were waiting onâare now on hand and have passed inspection. With the supply chain holding steady, weâre well-positioned for the next phase.
Firmware development is now in final tuning. The core system is complete and stable. The full feature set is active and under testing. Our current focus is on smoothing performance, refining the user interface, and resolving edge cases to ensure reliability under all conditions.
With pilot units in hand, weâve entered the final round of testing. Getting a commercial-grade product ready for market involves far more than making sure it powers on and works. It has to survive its environment, comply with regulations, and function reliably over time. Hereâs a breakdown of what that involves for the M1:
EMI (Electromagnetic Interference) Testing
Every electronic product has to meet strict standards for electromagnetic emissions and immunity. EMI testing checks that the M1 doesnât emit interference that could affect other nearby devices, and that itâs not overly sensitive to external electromagnetic noise. This is required for regulatory certification in most markets, including FCC compliance in the U.S.
Thermal and Power Analysis
Weâre testing the M1 under varying loads to make sure it manages heat effectively. This involves monitoring internal temperatures during continuous use, peak processing loads, and idle states. Poor thermal performance can reduce a deviceâs lifespan or cause unpredictable behavior, so this is where we confirm our cooling design holds up. We also evaluate overall power draw and efficiency to ensure the M1 runs optimally on its intended power supply.
Durability and Stress Testing
These tests simulate long-term use and accidental damage. We subject the units to repeated power cycles, extended run times, and a range of environmental conditions. Drop tests, vibration tests, and button press endurance cycles are part of this as well. Itâs about making sure the product can withstand the kinds of physical stresses it might encounter in the field without failing.
Functional and Regression Testing
Every featureâcore functions, connectivity, user interface, and edge-case behaviorsâgets thoroughly tested. Weâre checking for consistency, performance issues, and anything that could cause unexpected failures. As we refine the firmware, we also rerun regression tests to ensure new changes havenât introduced new bugs.
This level of testing is standard for commercial devices, but itâs still intense. In upcoming updates, weâll document the testing process in detail to share with backers. Itâs where we prove the M1 is not only feature-rich, but readyâtechnically sound, stable under pressure, and built to last. Weâre seeing strong results so far.
We plan to start delivering rewards in Q3 2025. As soon as we have the proposals and contract locked in with our logistic partner, we can narrow down the range and give more exact dates. Based on current progress with mold finalization, pilot testing, and component readiness, we expect to move into full-scale production shortly after final testing is complete. Once manufacturing ramps up, weâll proceed with packaging, quality checks, and fulfillment in staggered waves.
Backers will receive regular updates with tracking info as shipments go out. Our goal is to keep the process smooth, transparent, and on schedule. If anything changes, weâll communicate it clearly and promptly. As of now, everything is aligned for deliveries to begin on time.
If you have any questions about the project, delivery, product details, or anything elseâdonât hesitate to reach out. Weâre always happy to clarify and provide more information. And if thereâs something youâre curious about that we havenât covered yet, please ask in the comments. Your questions help us understand what matters most to you, and they often lead to better updates for everyone.
Thank you for the opportunity to make this all happen.
- MonstaTek Team
P.S
- Weâll narrow down fulfillment dates sooner than later. Meetings are scheduled for the upcoming week.
- We havenât forgotten about the factory tour. Weâll present that in future updates.
- The UI is a developmental version. Actual rewards will feature a more refined graphical interface.
- Any screen flickering is a camera artifact due to video frame rates and not visible in real world use.
- No devices were harmed in the filming of this video.
1 Like
Update #21
Sophie H.Collaborator
June 6, 2025
MonstaTek Team Factory Visit
Hello M1 Backers,
We recently visited our manufacturing partner to check on their progress firsthand. More than a standard inspection, this was a targeted collaboration between our team and the factory engineers, to refine assembly steps and confirm everything is going as planned.
Our focus was to make sure devices can be built to spec, that test stations were correctly identifying issues, and that assembly processes were consistent and repeatable. This includes verifying that key systems like the display, wireless modules, and power management are performing the way they should once assembled on the line.
During the visit, we also verified that the firmware currently installed on the pilot units is functioning as expected. This included confirming that the devices boot reliably, the firmware flashing process is stable, and that everything behaves as intended during normal use. Together with their staff, we reviewed handling, placement, and process flow for manufacturability. This helped us make minor adjustments for mass production.
We also reviewed the factoryâs overall readiness. All key components are already in stock and have passed inspection. The testing stations are set up and calibrated, and the production staff are being trained on how to handle and assemble the M1 correctly. Every step of the build process is documented and repeatable, with built-in checks to ensure quality remains consistent as production scales up.
This visit helped us catch any last-minute alignment issues between engineering and manufacturing. It also gave us confidence that both teams are in sync and that there are no surprises as we prepare for full-scale production. Final rounds of validation are still underway, but no major issues were found during this trip.
Quality assurance was another focus of this visit. We reviewed the Quality Assurance workflow from initial inspections during assembly to final checks before packaging. This included how visual defects are flagged, how functional problems are handled, and how re-work decisions are made. The team demonstrated a clear process for identifying and isolating any failed units, complete with logging, root-cause analysis, and traceability back to component batches. Everything is progressing toward our Q3 delivery timeline.
Thank you again for your continued support and patience.
Weâre also coordinating closely with our logistics partners to align on outbound shipping schedules, warehouse intake timing, and any region-specific requirements. These steps ensure a smooth handoff from the manufacturing floor to your doorstep.
Our shipping partner, Easyship, is helping us iron out the process on how the units will be received, checked in, and prepped for final delivery. Each region presents its own challenges such as customs procedures, carrier preferences, and required documentation, so weâre working to ensure compliance and minimize delays across all destinations.
Weâd love to hear from you. If you have any questions or suggestions about the M1âs progress, feel free to share them in the commentsâweâre happy to address them.
â MonstaTek Team
4 Likes
Posted by Sophie H.
Jul 14, 2025
For backers only
Hello M1 Backers,
First, apologies for the brief delay in posting this updateâwe waited for the tariff news. Itâs important to note that these tariffs could have wide-reaching effects beyond just increased rates, including disruptions to shipping logistics such as longer transit times, rerouted shipments, and fluctuations in freight volumes, as well as impacts on warehousing like shifts in inventory management, increased demand for storage space, and the need for strategies like bonded facilities to handle uncertainties. Fortunately, at this stage, this does not impact our production or delivery timeline, and weâre keeping a close eye on the talks to ensure we stay ahead of any changes.
With the pilot run behind us, weâre now preparing for full-scale production. The molds for the case and accessory parts were completed a few weeks ago and have since been fine-tuned. First sample parts came out at the correct, and a small test build is under way to be sure everything fits, assembles smoothly, and survives heat-and-cold and drop tests. So far the parts stay flat and solid; only a few minor surface-finish tweaks remain.
Our schedule is unchanged: the factory is slated to start building your units in the third week of September, and we still carry a two-week buffer in case anything unexpected pops up. While those test parts are being checked, weâre also trial-packing them to confirm the cartons protect the product, and the safety and regulatory labs are already booked.
Weâre currently evaluating the translucent version of the device, but it has presented some challenges. Due to the nature of translucent ABS, internal artifacts such as gate marks and slight irregularities in the plastic and PCB visibility are more pronounced than with opaque materials. These cosmetic imperfections are difficult to control in mass production and can detract from the polished appearance we are aiming for. Weâre actively working with our supplier to improve consistency. Final versions may vary slightly from the images below.
Please give us some feedback on the PCB colors for this version.
Firmware & Software Progress
The current firmware build is running smoothly. Features have undergone testing, and no critical issues have surfaced so far. That being said weâre still ironing out edge-case bugs which is fairly normal at this stage. We plan to finalize a factory-ready firmware build in early September so units can be programmed during production. Development will continue post-shipping through ongoing updates. Over the next few weeks weâll focus on full-device testing and polishing the GUI.
Logistics & Shipping
Work has begun on the outbound-shipping plan. We are drafting a concise guide that will explain how your M1 will travel from the factory to your door, covering carrier hand-off, and tracking. Because backers are worldwide, the plan will likely blend two approachesâgrouping by region to maintain reasonable shipping rates and honoring pledge orders for fairness. Our logistics partner, is modeling transit times and costs for each lane so we can choose the best split. We will share the shipping guide once the details are locked in.
Tooling is complete, checks are going well, and both hardware and software remain on schedule. If you have questions or suggestions, drop them in the commentsâweâre happy to discuss.
Thank you for backing the M1 and following our progress.
â The MonstaTek Team
1 Like
Update #23
Sophie H.Collaborator
August 12, 2025
Hello M1 Backers,
Exciting progress this month! Letâs dive straight into whatâs new:
Production Update: The Assembly Line is almost Ready!
Weâre thrilled to confirm that production preparation is underway. All plastic parts and components passed final inspection, and assembly fixtures have been approved. This week we successfully completed another small-scale production run every unit passed stringent fit-and-finish standards, durability tests, and stress scenarios (think drop tests, humidity exposure, and temperature cycling). Weâre happy to say everything looks great, feels robust, and performs exactly as designed.
Right now, the factory is fully stocked and prepping for our scheduled large scale production run. We remain on track for assembling your devices as planned.
Firmware and User Interface: Polishing Final Details
Our engineers have finalized the firmware build designated for the factory, an important step as we approach full-scale production. Extensive testing over the past month enabled the team to identify and resolve several hard-to-find bugs, significantly improving responsiveness, optimizing battery performance, and enhancing overall system stability under diverse real-world conditions.
The user interface has been a particular focus for our software team: guided by internal evaluations and valuable input from our dedicated beta testers, weâve refined the interface to deliver an intuitive and seamless experience. Menu navigation is fast and responsive, visual prompts have been clarified to be more informative, and animations have been smoothed out for fluid interactions, providing an enhanced user experience right out of the box.
At this stage in development, itâs common to uncover small areas for refinement as we bring the hardware and software together under real-world conditions. These have been quickly addressed, ensuring the firmware build is now factory-ready, thoroughly tested, and aligned precisely with our production timeline.
(Some snapshots of the M1 in black, non-renders)
Shipping & Logistics: Clear Paths Ahead
Weâre finalizing our logistics strategy. To optimize delivery time and manage costs efficiently, backers will be grouped by geographical region, which helps maintain affordable rates and ensures fair fulfillment. Each region will have dedicated shipping batches, and every backer will receive detailed tracking information well in advance.
Expect a comprehensive shipping guide in our next update, including the finalized process for address confirmation, transit timelines, and detailed carrier information.
EU Regulatory Update: Potential Impact for EU Backers
For our backers in the European Union, we want to highlight a recent regulatory change that could potentially influence our shipping schedule. New EU cybersecurity requirements under the Radio Equipment Directive (RED) come into effect on August 1, 2025. These updated standards may require additional firmware adjustments or further certification steps to maintain CE marking and ensure continued market access within the EU.
We are actively working to meet all requirements ahead of schedule and remain committed to shipping to EU backers on the same October timeline we are targeting for all regions. However, because final approval depends on external certification processes, there is a possibility of a slight delay if unforeseen compliance issues arise. Should that occur, we will communicate immediately with affected backers. Orders for non-EU regions will not be impacted.
Community Questions: Weâre Listening!
Your ongoing feedback helps us tremendously. Keep sharing your ideas, concerns, and excitement in the comments. We genuinely appreciate your support and involvement. Your voice shape the M1.
Thanks again for your incredible support. Next month, weâll have even bigger news as we count down to your devices arriving!
The MonstaTek Team
1 Like
[Update #24]
Posted by Sophie H.
Sep 13, 2025
#### For backers only
Hello M1 Backers,
Weâre just two weeks out from kicking off live production, and things are really coming together. Since our last update, the teamâs wrapped up pilot testing at the factory, gotten the assembly line prepped, finalized the firmware, and nailed down the testing process for every single device. Weâve also sorted out logistics and packaging, and weâve got a solid schedule for the production rollout.
From Pilot to Phased Production
That small-scale run we mentioned before was our pilot phase, and it went great. It showed us that all the tools and setups work reliably, the team can handle each step smoothly, and the finished units look and feel just rightâeven holding up under tough stress tests. With that green light, weâre shifting into phased production.
Next up is the mid-scale run, starting in just less two weeks. Weâll ramp up the line to run steadily at a higher volume. This lets us make sure we can keep the quality high over longer shifts and bigger batches, while tweaking the flow to keep parts moving efficiently.
Once thatâs ready, weâll jump straight into full-scale production. Thatâs when the factory hits top speed, assembling out units non-stop, packaging them, and giving them a final once-over. At that point finished devices heading into the shipping queue.
Factory Testing: Quick and Thorough Checks
Beyond just building them, every unit gets a full test before it ships. Weâve developed and locked in a set of custom test codesâbasically, special software that runs on the device right there on the line.
These tests put the display, buttons, vibration, LEDs, radios, and power systems through their paces, giving instant pass-or-fail results so the team can spot issues fast. If something doesnât check out, we pull it aside for fixes right away. We used these during the pilot to make sure theyâre spot-on, and now theyâre baked into the process without slowing things down.
Firmware and User Experience: Locked and Polished
Weâve finalized the production firmware build. Lately, our engineers have been honing in on stability, smoothing out any power spikes during heavy use, and making sure it switches seamlessly between sleep and active modes. All that means better battery life without sacrificing snappy performance.
Weâve been stress-testing combos of featuresâlike NFC emulation, Bluetooth logging, and IR transmission all at onceâto ensure everything plays nice together. Feedback from beta testers helped us tweak menu navigation, status messages, and error fixes, making the whole thing more intuitive and dependable for daily use.
Shipping and Logistics: Getting Ready to Deliver
Packaging is all set and tested with mock shipmentsâit holds up to bumps, vibrations, and stacking without a hitch, while keeping costs in check by staying compact.
Weâre finalizing deals with carriers for regional shipping waves. By grouping deliveries by area, we can aim for more predictable arrival times and smoother customs handling. Our next update will have a full shipping guide, including how to confirm your address, batch overviews by region, estimated transit times, and carrier details. We will need to collect shipping from everyone soon. Shipping is billed at the carrierâs rate. We do not add any markup or processing fees.
Whatâs Next
Weâre right at that exciting shift from planning to making it happen. The pilot nailed our readiness, tests are dialed in, firmwareâs rock-solid, packagingâs proven, and logistics are lined up. Mid-scale starts in two weeks, with full production hot on its heels.
In the next update, weâll share some photos and behind-the-scenes from the factory as those bigger batches roll off the line (we plan for more updates this month)
Thanks for your supportâwe canât wait to get these in your hands!
The MonstaTek Team
2 Likes
Curious how many cyborgs are going to get a Monsta Tek M1?
- I have backed it on Kickstarter
- I will get it when it is released
- Depends on the price
- Depends on features / development
- Iâll wait to see if it works with implants
- I will not be getting one
0
voters
2 Likes
Iâm going to wait, but Iâm also going to look at how well the firmware gets developed after itâs released.
5 Likes
Posted by Sophie H.
Oct 1, 2025
Hello M1 Backers,
Weâre now officially out of the preparation phase and fully into live production mode. The assembly line started running on September 26, 2025. Our team has gotten comfortable at their workstations, and weâre using the exact same tools, fixtures, and in-line testing processes that weâll rely on as we ramp up production. The pilot phase is completely finished, so every unit coming off the line from this point forward is a real production unit ready for customers.
Over the next couple weeks, weâll be carefully increasing the speed of the line while keeping a close eye on important metrics. These include things like first-pass yield (how many units pass tests on the first try), the time it takes at each station, and any rework needed to fix issues. This way, we can make sure everything flows smoothly as we produce more and more units. Once things stabilize at this stage, the very first production units will go through their final testing and polishing during the first half of October. Right after they pass that checkpoint, weâll shift straight into full-scale production. At that high-speed pace, it usually takes about two to three weeks to build up a good stock of boxed inventory. That involves assembling the units quickly, running in-line tests, making any quick fixes if necessary, and then packing them into shipping cartons. 
We havenât skimped on quality checksâevery single unit still gets a complete in-line test before it even leaves the production floor. This includes testing the display, buttons, LEDs, basic functions for NFC, RFID, Sub-GHz, and IR (like smoke tests to ensure they work), battery charging and discharging cycles, and transitions between sleep and wake modes. The testing software is built right into the workstations, so we get immediate pass or fail results. If anything looks borderline, we pull it aside for corrections without causing any slowdowns on the line.
As soon as the first production units pass their testing and final polishing, theyâll move into the final staging area. This includes packing them out, doing spot checks for quality assurance, and organizing them onto pallets before we book the freight. Since weâre dealing with long distance ocean freight, plus customs clearance and intake at our warehouse, we have to coordinate everything carefully. Thatâs why shipments will go out in scheduled waves instead of all at once right after production. Wave 1 covers about 3,000 units and is planned for the end of October or early November. Once those clear customs and get checked into our warehouse, weâll start picking and packing them, then hand them off to carriers. Most backers in this wave should get their tracking information during that time, with the first deliveries happening soon after. Wave 2, with another 3,000 units, will shortly follow. Then Wave 3, with 4,000 units, comes in early-to-mid December. Overall, we anticipate the very first backers receiving their devices in mid-November, and deliveries will continue steadily through December until everyone has theirs.
Backer order determines shipping everywhere. Within each region, pledges are dispatched in the sequence they were placed. For shipping costs, weâre only charging what the carriers bill us for, so thereâs no extra markup or processing fee from our side. To keep freight, customs, and warehouse operations running smoothly, shipments are organized into structured regional waves. As soon as your shipping label is created, you will receive an email regarding freight and fulfillment with tracking details. Note: timelines for the European Union may shift if final steps under the EU Radio Equipment Directive (RED) require additional review. If this occurs, we will inform backers promptly and share any updated shipping windows.
In the United States, orders ship first in daily batches, following pledge order. Europe and the United Kingdom will be dispatched in stages across the region, still by backer order, and may be affected by standard customs procedures. Asia follows backer order as well, with hub countries such as Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Hong Kong grouped to streamline dispatch. Latin America and the Caribbean will be shipped in consolidated waves to maintain predictable transit, while Oceania (Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific islands) moves in a coordinated regional wave, also in pledge sequence.
Weâll follow this update soon with another that includes more visuals from the production floor and packing line so you can see how the process is unfolding step by step. In the meantime, if you have questions, weâre ready to answer them. Your feedback is very important to us and helps shape both our communication and execution as we move forward.
Thank you again for your support.
- MonstaTek Team
2 Likes
The M1: A Compact Multitool for Technophiles and Hackers
PledgeManager Notification
Hello Pilgrim,
Youâre receiving this notification because your The M1: A Compact Multitool for Technophiles and Hackers order has been modified. This can occur due to a corrected price, availability of a specific product, corrected shipping rate, or other adjustment that may impact items in your order. Weâve gone ahead and unlocked your order so that you can re-confirm the changes. Please re-confirm your order to ensure it will be ready for fulfillment or you may not receive your items
Click HERE to log-in
- Monstatek
1 Like
Update #26
Sophie H.Collaborator
October 22, 2025
Hello M1 Backers,
Production & Assembly
Itâs been a few weeks since our last check-in, and weâre happy to report that the production line is operating well The workstations are running like clockwork, using the same fixtures and in-line checks weâll keep throughout the scale-up. Weâre stacking up boxed inventory, ready for the first shipping wave. Weâve also streamlined things by adding final polishing right after the in-line tests, so units flow smoothly from passing tests to packaging and onto pallets for shipping.
Weâve got some fresh visuals from the factory floor to shareâpictures of our team hard at work, screens showing test confirmations, subassemblies prepped for the next step, finished cartons with the product looking sharp, and pallets all lined up for outbound freight. Your M1s are taking shape and getting set for their trip to you.
Looking ahead, weâre focused on keeping the production line moving steadily, building up our stock of finished, boxed units, and locking in freight departures for Wave 1 while gearing up for Wave 2 right behind it. .
Shipping & Next Step
Weâve sent a shipping notice through the pledge manager. As was stated in our Project FAQ, shipping is between $10 and $35 based on destination and order details.
For transparency: shipping within the United States is $15 per unit and $20 per unit to Canada, with discounted rates for orders containing more than two devices.The current courier rate including handling and lithium-ion compliance is $32 (our cost) to most of Western/Central Europe and to Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia, $40 .
Where actual costs exceed our published range, we will cover the difference so your charge remains within the $10â$35 per unit cap.
Please understand we do not receive the ultra-discounted logistics rates that platforms like Alibaba or Amazon for huge volume.
Got questions? Weâre all ears! Your feedback means a lot and helps us fine-tune how we share updates and get this done right.
Thanks for sticking with us and for your incredible support.
-The M1 Team
2 Likes
I paid USD$60 postage for 2âŚ
Strange you have to pay per unit.
4 Likes
Video link didnât copy across
1 Like