One To Watch in 2015 – Google Ara Phone
8 December 2014 - Nicola Dunlop
The project is built on the premise that people should be able to create their own smartphone which is tailored to their functional and aesthetic preferences using a modular smartphone approach.
Currently Ara is in development with initiatives and conferences to work towards the end product.
This modular phone concept challenges our culture of disposable devices by developing a phone that continually evolves with technology.
No longer will we own obsolete models or upgrade to a completely new phone just to experience a better camera, screen resolution or connectivity.
With the Ara, a range of up-to-date functionalities such as camera, speaker and data processor can be chosen by the user and slotted into the back of a screen frame (known as an endoskeleton), ensuring their phone is up-to-date with the aspects that they desire.
These modules can also be personalised in a visual sense with users uploading designs, patterns and images to the Ara Configurator app then ordering them to print.
Such a customer-centric approach to mobile design should introduce a new wave of products that are built for the user and by the user, enhancing desirability.
Google is currently looking into working with 3D print companies to complete this customising process.
The endoskeleton is available in small, medium and large allowing the user to switch-up the size and function of their device depending on their environment.
Paul Eremenko explains when discussing the Ara concept,
As a consumer you could have multiple frames. You can have a mini to put in your skinny jeans and go clubbing and a big one to take to the office and do emails
While the frame is set by Google via a developer kit , the modules are open source meaning Module Developers (even without a license) can create their own reference designs whilst avoiding any compatibility issues.
Hundreds of developers have already signed up to the kit making it one to watch in 2015.
The next (this will open in a new window)conference (this will open in a new window)is set to take place in January in California and Singapore.
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