Controlling the Taylor Swift Eras Tour wristbands with Flipper Zero

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

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.