GoKawiilDeveloper upgrades iPod Nano 3G storage to 16GB via custom NAND swap
A hobbyist developer completed a multi-year project to increase the storage capacity of a third-generation iPod Nano to 16GB by replacing its NAND flash chip. The creator, who started with no soldering or reverse-engineering experience, chose the Nano 3G because its NAND chip has legs rather than being surface-mounted, making it more approachable than other Apple devices with soldered BGA chips.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
This project extends a long-running enthusiast trend of modding classic iPods, previously limited mostly to hard-drive-based models like the iPod Classic, into devices with soldered flash memory that Apple never intended to be user-serviceable. The work suggests that even Apple's more tightly integrated flash-storage devices can be reverse-engineered by determined hobbyists, potentially inspiring similar mods for other Nano generations or Shuffles.
- A hobbyist upgraded an iPod Nano 3G's storage to 16GB by swapping its NAND chip.
- The project began in April 2020 and took years to complete despite the creator having no prior soldering experience.
- The Nano 3G was chosen because its NAND chip has legs, making it easier to work with than BGA-soldered chips in other Apple devices.
iFlash Nano iPod Storage Upgrade Kit — If you're inspired by iPod modding projects like this one, an iFlash Nano kit lets you swap out aging flash storage for modern, larger capacity memory in your classic iPod. It's a great way to breathe new life into an old device and dive into DIY hardware tinkering yourself. Perfect for anyone curious about retro tech restoration.
See iFlash Nano iPod Storage Upgrade Kit on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: tuckerosman.com, 2026-09-24
Published there as: “16GB iPod Nano 3G Upgrade”
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