HyperSpace TrackPad Pro Crowdfunding Campaign Stalls, Leaving Backers in Limbo

The HyperSpace TrackPad Pro crowdfunding campaign has hit a major roadblock, leaving over 1,600 backers in uncertainty after raising more than $200,000 on Kickstarter. The company behind the project, Hyper, has announced that production has been derailed by supply chain complications, forcing them to offer backers three difficult choices: accept a full refund, wait indefinitely for the product, or take store credit with a $50 bonus.

Supply Chain Woes Derail Promising Windows Trackpad The HyperSpace TrackPad Pro was positioned as the Windows equivalent to Apple's Magic Trackpad, offering premium features in a sleek aluminum enclosure measuring 6.5 x 4 x 0.5 inches. The device promised impressive specifications including a 250 Hz response rate, 30-day battery life from a 1,000-mAh battery, piezo electric actuators for haptic feedback, and Microsoft Precision Touchpad support.

Backers Face Tough Decisions According to Hyper's latest update, the company has exhausted its options and can no longer provide a concrete timeline for delivery. This has left backers with three choices:

1. Cancel their pledge and receive a full refund
2. Wait indefinitely while the company attempts to resolve production issues
3. Accept a refund in the form of Hyper store credit plus a $50 bonus

The product was initially offered to super-early backers at $109 and early backers at $120, with the final retail price expected to be significantly higher, especially if supply chain problems persist.

Disappointment for Windows Users The HyperSpace TrackPad Pro generated significant excitement among Windows users seeking a high-quality alternative to Apple's ecosystem. The combination of premium build quality, extensive feature set, and competitive pricing made it an attractive option for productivity-focused users.

However, the indefinite delay has dampened enthusiasm, with many backers expressing frustration over the lack of clear communication and timeline. The situation highlights the risks inherent in crowdfunding campaigns, particularly for hardware products that depend on complex supply chains.

Industry Context This setback comes at a time when supply chain disruptions continue to affect the tech industry broadly. From semiconductor shortages to component delays, manufacturers across the sector have struggled with production timelines since 2020.

For Hyper, the challenge now is rebuilding trust with their customer base while navigating these production hurdles. The offer of store credit with a bonus suggests the company is attempting to retain customer loyalty despite the disappointing turn of events.

The HyperSpace TrackPad Pro case serves as a cautionary tale for both crowdfunding backers and companies launching ambitious hardware projects through platforms like Kickstarter.