Doom has been ported to an earbud (doombuds.com)

Article summary

The classic game DOOM has been ported to run on Pinebuds Pro earbuds, which have open source firmware. The game can be played remotely over the internet, with players joining a queue to access the game. The porting process involved overcoming hardware limitations, including serial connection and RAM constraints. The earbuds' CPU and flash storage were also optimized to run the game.

Main themes

• DOOM porting
• hardware limitations
• environmental impact
• software optimization
• electronic waste
• technology production

What commenters say

• Running DOOM on unconventional devices is a notable achievement, showcasing the versatility of software and hardware.
• The environmental impact of producing and disposing of powerful hardware is a significant concern.
• Using off-the-shelf MCUs is more efficient and reduces electronic waste compared to custom-built hardware.
• The materials used in chip production have a substantial environmental impact, from sourcing to shipping and disposal.
• Optimizing software to run on existing hardware can help reduce the need for new, resource-intensive devices.
• The pursuit of running DOOM on various devices is driven by a desire to push the limits of what is possible, rather than a practical need.
• The focus on running DOOM on unusual devices distracts from more pressing issues, such as the environmental consequences of technology production.