PoutPin

PoutPin is a line of pin-shaped wearable devices designed to be attached to clothing via a standard brooch pin. They function as modular, low-power sensors and microcontrollers intended for hobbyist and educational use, and as a platform for fashion-tech projects.

First release 2023 by the open-source collective PoutPin Project; aims to democratize wearable electronics.

Each unit is compact, around 25 mm by 18 mm by 6 mm, and includes a microcontroller, a BLE radio, a rechargeable battery, and a footprint for swappable modules such as LEDs, accelerometer, temperature sensor, or small haptic actuators. The devices use a pin connector and a mechanical housing compatible with common pin backings, enabling rapid prototyping.

The software stack includes firmware libraries and sample projects; developers can create and share modules that plug into the shared interface. The platform emphasizes open hardware designs and permissive licensing.

Applications include fashion-tech installations, interactive art, classroom experiments, and rapid prototyping for wearables.

Reception has been positive among makers for its approachable form factor and open designs, though some critiques note limited third-party module ecosystems and uneven documentation.