SparkFun Severs Ties with Adafruit Over Harassment Dispute
The partnership between SparkFun Electronics and Adafruit Industries has ended due to allegations of harassment and violations of conduct guidelines. SparkFun cited reasons related to unacceptable online behavior as the impetus for severing ties.
SparkFun Cuts Ties with Adafruit
In December 2025, SparkFun CEO Glenn Samala announced the decision to cease business relations with Adafruit. This decision was primarily based on claims of harassment made by Adafruit against SparkFun’s founder Nathan Seidle and a former employee.
The Harassment Allegations
- Adafruit’s managing director, Phillip Torrone, reported multiple harassing actions directed at the company’s founder, Limor Fried.
- Torrone claims SparkFun retaliated against him for reporting these actions, effectively “killing the messenger.”
- Adafruit plans to develop an alternative product, potentially named “Freensy,” in response to the fallout.
Key Details from the Dispute
According to Torrone, the conflicts date back several years. He noted several critical events, including:
- A July 2025 communication where Adafruit urged SparkFun to address ongoing harassment concerns.
- Longstanding issues of website interference from SparkFun, which reportedly harmed Adafruit’s revenue during its early days.
- Misuse of Adafruit’s licensed materials and trademarked names by SparkFun.
Torrone expressed frustration over the situation, especially following the birth of his child, emphasizing the emotional toll that the ongoing conflict had taken on him and his family.
Future Developments
As of January 2026, SparkFun committed to fulfilling outstanding orders through January 15. After this date, they will cancel any pending transactions with Adafruit.
Although Torrone has detailed many of the issues, SparkFun has largely maintained its silence. Samala reiterated that the decision to part ways with Adafruit was made after thorough consideration.
The outcome of these disputes remains uncertain, especially concerning future intellectual property and contractual matters between the two companies. El-Balad will continue to monitor developments in this evolving story.
