# Game Boy music player smashes Kickstarter with $500k

> The AP30 Music Boy proves people are hungry for dedicated devices that keep them offline and focused.
- Title: Game Boy music player smashes Kickstarter with $500k
- Summary: The AP30 Music Boy proves people are hungry for dedicated devices that keep them offline and focused. Dedicated music players are making a comeback as people…
- Keywords: hidizs, ap30 music boy, kickstarter, music player, game boy inspired, hi-res audio, dumb devices, offline tech, portable audio, gen-z, retro aesthetics, digital detox
- Source: Engadget — https://engadget.com/2257820/game-boy-inspired-music-player-raises-500000-kickstarter
- Author: Deven McClure
- Published: 2026-09-19T14:30:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: hidizs, ap30 music boy, kickstarter, music player, game boy inspired, hi-res audio, dumb devices, offline tech, portable audio, gen-z, retro aesthetics, digital detox
## Game Boy inspired player crushes goal
HIDIZS's AP30 Music Boy raised $504,311 on Kickstarter, smashing its $5,100 target by 98 times. The device ships this October.

> Smartphones killed the dedicated music player, but they also killed the magic.
## Tiny device, serious audio specs
The Music Boy weighs 56-80g and supports hi-res formats up to DSD256. It has a 2-inch screen, physical buttons, and a scroll wheel.
## Three ways to carry it everywhere
The Music Boy comes with a magnetic phone case, lanyard, or bag clip. Battery lasts 6-10 hours depending on connection type.
## Works as DAC and e-reader too
Connect it to your phone or computer via USB-C to decode high-quality audio. It also reads e-books and includes six retro games.
## People are rejecting always-on phones
Searches for vintage iPods have soared as listeners seek focused music experiences without notifications. The Music Boy taps into this hunger for simpler tech.
## Gen-Z chasing simpler internet vibes
Young people drawn to Y2K aesthetics and retro tech are recreating the pre-algorithm internet era. Simpler devices offer escape from invasive AI and mental health toll of constant connectivity.
## Key takeaway

Dedicated music players are making a comeback as people reject always-on smartphones and seek simpler, more intentional tech.