Project Ara Gets Demoed For The First Time | TechTree.com

Project Ara Gets Demoed For The First Time

Apple began the app revolution, will Google start the component revolution?

 

When we looked at the Project Ara concept, we never thought that it would actually be possible to build such a handset. It's reminiscent to assembled desktop systems, a strategy that worked wonders for Windows-based computers. We were concerned about the catastrophic levels of fragmentation it would bring to the OS. But thanks to the Launch Tech Conference, we got a lot more than we expected — a component swapping demo.

The tech world witnessed how easily the components could be swapped on the endoskeleton (which is a non-functional prototype). Google plans to manufacture this frame itself. Till now phone customisation was only limited to software. Now think about doing a similar thing with the phone's components. The endoskeleton (frame) will also house a small battery, which will power the board, making the components hot-swapable.

Paul from Google mentions the components may also come from 3rd party vendors. This means that biggies like Samsung or even start-ups can sell the camera module ready to be slotted into your Ara device (much like adding RAM to your PC). Moreover, one can use a 3D printer to make own panels. If this thing takes-off, even small hardware developers will have a chance to compete with multinational brands.

Google is also working with 3D Systems to deliver a consumer grade 3d printer. This should help you print anything from an antennae to different components. The search-giant will be hosting another conference on 15th of April for developers.

From what we can see here, Google is going all out on Project Ara, but what remains to be seen, is what OS the platform will be running. Another interesting thing will existing developer community react to the MDK (Module Development Kit) when it launches later next month.



TAGS: Mobile Phones, Google

 
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