Google Project Ara will allow users to build their own smartphone
Project Ara, Google's initiative for creating a modular smartphone, has been in development since 2012. However, it wasn't until the Google I/O 2016 last week that Google decided to unveil the smartphone to the public.
The current Project Ara modular smartphone differs significantly from the first proposed model. The base frame has all the functions of a smartphone. It includes the CPU, GPU, display, sensors, battery, and antennas. In previous versions, all of these components were also available to be switched out. However, according to Google, this current setup frees up more space for more useful functions.
While Project Ara's modularity may have been limited, it allows Google to proceed further with the modular smartphone's development.
Project Ara's base frame comes with six available slots. These slots are flexible and components will function no matter which slot it is placed in. This feature is made possible by the Greybus, a new Android software that supports instantaneous connections, efficient use of power, and features transfer rates of up to 11.9 Gbps.
Due to the flexibility of the smartphone, users can easily upgrade to new-generation components and form factors. Damaged components like the display can also be easily replaced without having to sacrifice the entire smartphone. Essentially, users will have the freedom to build a smartphone with features that they desire.
Google has yet to reveal examples of modular components that would fit Project Ara. The company is currently looking for developers that can create innovative components for Project Ara. Since Google's Project Ara is designed to be an open platform, the company is looking forward to discovering new ideas and input from developers. Interested developers are encouraged to apply here.
Consumers, on the other hand, will have to remain patient as Google finalizes plans for Project Ara. Google will first release the Developer Edition this fall. The consumer version of Project Ara is expected to arrive by early 2017.