Beocreate
Modular audio platform enabling upcycling of vintage loudspeakers.
Fostering innovation through collaborative ideation
Bang & Olufsen was seeking to unlock new product categories through innovative approaches. As the creator of Beocreate, I championed open-source innovation tools and fostered close collaboration with the enthusiastic B&O and maker communities. Organizeing hackathons both within B&O and alongside external makers to drive early-phase ideation, identifying new opportunities for the company. This collaborative process laid the groundwork and blueprints for the tools needed to support this novel approach to innovation.
B&O workshop for Beocreate possibilities
Creating a modular platform for vintage speakers
The culmination of the project was the Beocreate 4-channel amplifier, a versatile, all-in-one platform suitable for a wide range of loudspeaker projects. The most compelling use-case emerged when we leveraged the hardware to upcycle vintage loudspeakers, transforming them into modern, high-quality sound systems. To extend our reach beyond B&O enthusiasts and engage the wider maker community, we partnered with HifiBerry to co-develop and distribute the board—accompanied by guides for upcycling not just B&O speakers, but virtually any passive loudspeaker.
Product specifications for the Beocreate 4CA, a raspberry pi powered audio platform
An exploded view of an upcycled loudspeaker
Successful launch and the legacy continues
Launched in 2018, Beocreate empowered hobbyists worldwide to breathe new life into vintage speakers. The platform sold globally through HifiBerry partnership and spawned an active community of makers. The project's success directly influenced Bang & Olufsen's official Recreated and Reloved product lines, demonstrating the viability of sustainable audio products.
A collection of upcycled loudspeakers showcased at TechBBQ
An upcycled pink Bang & Olufsen CX50 loudspeaker
Role
Concept Creator & Project Manager
Timeline
2015 – 2017