Google X, the most secretive and experimental arm on the Mountain View campus, wants to build the future, whether that's building a global network of balloons to deliver the internet or trying to convince us to strap computers to our faces. But one idea that's been of endless fascination is Project Ara, Google's modular smartphone.
Today, at Project Ara's second annual press conference, the team revealed details on spiral 2, the third iteration of the Ara prototype. Unveiling the new (and fancy looking) prototype was also somewhat bittersweet, as Google says we shouldn't expect to own one of these devices any time soon. To make up for this classic case of gadget blue balls, they didn't give us some hi-res images to fawn over. Let the ogling commence!
The Casing
So this is just a look at a completely barren Ara smartphone, even the screen and front-facing camera are optional models, meaning hypothetically you swap low and hi-res screens in and out as you choose. COOL! But that's a loooot of points of failure right there. Factored in with the wear-and-tear of constantly switching out modules, it's no wonder Google needs a bit more time with this one.
A closer look at two back panels side by side.
The Modules
The Ara smartphone is all about the modules. Previous modules include Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, camera, battery, graphics, storage. Today, Google also announced new modules including extended battery life, speaker, and pollution sensor. Google will begin testing of the smartphone in Puerto Rico and envisions selling these little guys out of food-truck-type vending stands.
Putting It All Together?
This is the powerful idea behind Project Ara - the exact smartphone you want when you need it. Going on a long trip and need battery life? Swipe out for a low-res screen and extra battery modules. Need to take great photos at you kids soccer game? Get that camera module packed with megapixels. It's an ambitious dream to be sure, and one that won't jibe with everyone, but it's an idea worth exploring just to see where it goes.
from Gizmodo http://gizmodo.com/the-best-look-at-googles-ara-smartphone-yet-1679489656
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