Test pilots wanted

SM2 brushless DIGITAL motor beta program

Test pilots wanted

March 4th Update: Applications are now closed! Thank you to everyone who applied.

We’re breaking our own rules and sharing a secret, but for good reason. With the SM2 Beta Program, you get access to our latest technology – at a very steep discount – and we get help testing and tuning our next generation software. Win. Win.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

The SM2 Brushless Digital Motor hardware is complete, but we’re now in the final stages of tuning the software. This Beta Program is an exclusive opportunity for a limited number of Origin owners to test and provide feedback on our latest motor technology.

Selected participants will receive a significant discount on the SM2 motor in exchange for their active participation in the beta program. This includes regular feedback sessions, completion of surveys, and contribution to our online community forum. We are looking for engaged and enthusiastic users who are passionate about the future of Origin.

Brushless by Design

Headlights on? Check. Downlights on? Check.

Brushless by Design

Headlights on? Check. Downlights on? Check.

BETA PROGRAM DETAILS

The Hardware: Get a production-ready SM2 Brushless Digital Motor

The Cost: $350 to participate gets you the hardware. The motor is yours to keep. Anticipated retail cost of the SM2 Motor, once in market, will be $600.

The Safety Net: 100% refundable if returned within 30 days of the end of the beta program.

The Benefit: If you choose to keep it, you’ll not only get the discount and hands on early tech, but we’ll also give you a fresh 2-year warranty for the motor, protecting you in the future.

SM2 BETA APPLICATION

March 4th Update:
Applications are now closed! Thank you to everyone who applied. We will be in touch soon.

Key Features

Workspace Illumination

Downward facing LEDs help you see the work at hand, whether it’s probing stock during setup, or inspecting the cut quality.

Digitally connected

The SM2 Brushless Digital Motor wirelessly communicates with Origin, allowing you to set the motor’s speed digitally, as well as read the current speed based on a changes you make with the physical dial.

Frequently asked questions

Did I miss it? Are applications now closed?

Based on the overwhelming response we received, applications are closed as of March 4th. If you applied for the Beta Program we will be in touch soon regarding the status of your application. Thanks again for your interest and support!

How long does the beta last?

The official beta testing and feedback program is anticipated to run until the end of August 2026. Participants will of course be permitted to keep and use their SM2 motors beyond the official beta period.

What’s the benefit over the existing SM1 motor?

The SM2 is a brushless motor, offering more consistent torque, quieter operation, reduced maintenance, and—most importantly—digital speed control. It also features integrated LED lighting for better visibility.

Why do I have to pay to be a tester?

We are looking for committed partners. This fee offsets some of the hardware and logistics burden and ensures we are working with participants who intend to make the SM2 a permanent part of their workflow. In exchange, you get the hardware at a significant discount compared with the expected retail price.

Is my $350 refundable?

Yes. If by the end of the beta program you decide the SM2 isn't right for you, you can return it for a 100% refund, provided it is returned within 14 days of the program's conclusion and is in an approved condition.

What is the "Approved-for-Return" condition?

We expect the motor to be used! "Approved" simply means the motor is still functional and hasn't been subjected to gross negligence or unauthorized disassembly. Normal shop wear and tear is expected.

Is the SM2 Brushless Digital Motor compatible with both Origin Gen1 and Origin Gen2?

Yes, the SM2 Motor is compatible with the earlier Origin Gen1, as well as Origin Gen2.

Does the existence of a SM2 Brushless Digital Motor mean that my SM1 Motor will no longer function or is obsolete?

No. The function of the SM1 Motor remains unchanged.

After we upgrade system software to communicate with SM2, will there be any issue going back to the old SM1 motor?

Your existing SM1 motor will continue working as it did before. The SM1 motor is not communicating with Origin (same as always). You can use the SM1 and SM2 interchangeably.

Which countries are eligible to apply for the Beta Program?

In order to keep this program streamlined, we're only offering the SM2 Beta Program to residents of the US and EU. If you live outside one of these regions and want to apply, we appreciate your understanding and are excited for you to get hands on the SM2 motor in the future.

What happens to my warranty?

Your SM2 is covered throughout the beta. However, the best part is that once the beta program officially ends, we will restart a full 2-year warranty for your SM2 unit.

How do I provide feedback?

Most feedback will take place in the "SM2 Beta" section of our community forum. It is a semi-public space where you can post issues, suggest UI improvements, and share your projects. For participants who prefer to submit feedback outside of the forum, we will have additional feedback methods including email submission.

Can I share my feedback publicly?

Yes. The SM2 Beta forum category is visible to the entire Shaper community. We want the world to see what we are building. However, only Beta participants will have the ability to post or reply in that section.

Will the software be "finished" when I get the motor?

No. You should expect regular firmware updates, occasional bugs, and UI changes. Your feedback is what will help us move the software from "Early Stage" to "Public Release."