Google Unveils $50 ‘Project Ara’ modular smartphone
The system will be based around a basic $50 skeleton with customizable add-on modules
It may not have been the greatest of debuts for such a revolutionary product, but Google’s new ‘Project Ara’ smartphone was a hit nonetheless.
“We did crack the screen, and the phone doesn’t quite boot,” said Paul Eremenko, Project Ara head, during a webcast developer event in Mountain View, California, on Tuesday.
Project Ara is something altogether new in the crowded (and expensive) world of modern smartphones. The basic idea is simple enough: take a basic shell/exoskeleton where a number other smaller modules can be connected. These modules will not only allow you to customise your phone, but will also allow for upgrades as you see fit. Want to add some networking? Just drop in a new module. A better processor for games? Drop in a module. Better sound fidelity? Again, just pop in a new module.
Google is not looking to target the top end, new gadget starving masses with endless disposable income, rather, it’s targeting those people who are still using older feature phones, allowing them to make the switch and upgrade as they see fit.
The base entry model that you will see in stores, will be supplied with a bare-bones handset with a screen, battery, processor and WiFi module. The rest of the components will be left up to consumers.
Check out some product images below.
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