GitHub for Hardware Engineers: Why AllSpice Could Be the Future of PCB Collaboration

In the fast-paced world of electronics design, version control has long been a sore spot. While software teams have GitHub, hardware engineers have traditionally had… email chains, spreadsheet bombs, and file-naming chaos. But what if there was a true GitHub for hardware engineers?

One Source of Truth for Hardware Teams

That’s the bold promise from AllSpice, a platform designed from the ground up to solve hardware versioning, collaboration, and traceability problems. At Hardware Pioneers Max 2025, Thomas from AllSpice gave ipXchange an exclusive look into the platform — and it’s a breath of fresh air.

AllSpice allows engineers to manage all their design files, BoMs, netlists, and datasheets in one centralised space. No more hunting through inboxes. No more outdated versions. Whether you’re using Altium, Cadence, or KiCad, AllSpice integrates seamlessly into your workflow.

Visualise Design Changes Instantly

Version control in hardware is traditionally cumbersome. AllSpice flips that on its head with visual diffs that clearly highlight what’s changed — green for additions, red for deletions. And for design reviews? You can tag team members, add comments, and ensure everyone’s aligned before a board even gets fabbed.

As Thomas put it:

“You probably worked on a file for hours and realised it was the wrong file or not the correct version. That won’t happen anymore.”

Collaboration Without the Friction

AllSpice isn’t just about version control — it’s about workflow fluidity. Engineers can comment on specific design areas, tag team members (or themselves), and maintain full traceability across revisions. The tool runs in-browser, meaning no pricey seat licenses just to review someone else’s work.

Even solo engineers will find value here — especially when you’re jumping back into a project you touched at 3am last Tuesday. AllSpice keeps a readable, documented history.

Automate Everything, Including Innovation

Engineers are, in Thomas’ words, “lazy in the best way.” That’s why AllSpice features automation tools: auto-generate BoMs, netlists, and even carbon footprint reports. The platform becomes a launchpad for whatever your project demands — from aerospace to wearables.

AllSpice might have started as “GitHub for hardware engineers,” but it’s quickly becoming more than that. It’s a whole new way of thinking about how design teams build the future.