Controlling the Taylor Swift Eras Tour wristbands with Flipper Zero
Engineers and concertgoers are fascinated by how Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour wristbands are centrally controlled using simple 38 kHz infrared “searchlights” rather than complex IoT or 5G systems, making them cheap, robust and easy to integrate with standard DMX lighting rigs. Commenters explore how tools like Flipper Zero can reverse‑engineer or spoof the signals, debate the limited security implications and practical barriers to hijacking a show, and touch on eye‑safety concerns with high‑power IR. A parallel thread questions the environmental impact of mass-produced LED wristbands, weighing claims of reuse and refurbishment against broader skepticism about the sustainability of large-scale entertainment tech.
Overall reaction to the system
- Many are impressed by how simple and robust the IR-based control is, especially compared to imagined overengineered solutions involving 5G/IoT, GPS, or per-seat networking.
- Several admit they tried to reverse-engineer or mentally model a more complex RF/GPS system during shows and were surprised by the straightforward IR “searchlight” approach.
- Some argue the solution seems “obvious” to people with IR/lighting experience; others say that’s exactly what makes it elegant engineering.
Technical design & variants
- Core Swift tour bands:
- Use 38 kHz modulated IR.
- High‑power IR “wash” fixtures scan the crowd, transmitting simple commands to any band in the beam.
- Direction of the beam effectively “addresses” regions; the system tolerates missed packets and doesn’t need strong security.
- Other PixMob modes:
- RF-based version where bands are pre-placed on seats, grouped by section/row and controlled via DMX+RF.
- Bluetooth variants (not suitable for stadium-scale) and K-pop “lightsticks” that pair via app and can cost ~$100.
- Bands are designed for reuse: snap-together cases, replaceable batteries, reusable electronics with disposable/replaceable fabric straps.
Sustainability & e‑waste concerns
- Multiple comments call the wristbands “non-recyclable garbage” or “useless mass production of garbage.”
- Others point to the manufacturer’s sustainability claims: collection bins, refurbishment and reuse, repairability, battery recycling.
- Skepticism persists that reuse will be prioritized over manufacturing new units if it’s cheaper.
- Broader point: concerts and large-scale spectacle are inherently resource-intensive; terms like “sustainable” are debated, including confusion over everyday vs. “sustainable development” meanings.
Security, hijacking & mischief
- The lack of encryption is noted; worst realistic abuse discussed is prank or protest messages, or forcing annoying flashing patterns.
- Several explore attack ideas: high‑power IR spotlights disguised as cameras, drones with IR LEDs, or RF/DMX interference—generally judged hard, risky, and of limited payoff.
- Some draw parallels to past insecurities in wireless mics and joke about bans on tools like Flipper Zero.
IR safety
- Questions raised about whether powerful IR wash lights are safe for eyes.
- Replies distinguish between:
- Broad, distant IR illumination (similar risk to bright visible searchlights, generally considered safe at audience distances).
- Narrow, close, high-power IR sources, which can be dangerous because the eye’s reflexes don’t respond to invisible light.
- References to standards and other IR/UV incidents suggest that within regulated limits and typical usage, stadium IR is likely safe, but focused exposure at close range would not be.