The complex technological challenge behind Project Ara is just one of the difficulties that Google engineers have been facing for more than a year working on the prototype of a modular smartphone.
We already had it premature, in fact, how the time factor is decisive for any project in the ATAP (Advanced Technology and Projects, modeled on the example of DARPA) division of the Mountain View giant. If we also consider that they are starting to appear on this new and potential market other competitors, we understand better the need of the Californian company to give a boost, also of image, to its utopian project.
In this context fits perfectly the new and interesting video-interview (of course in English) in which Paul Eremenko, Ara's chief designer, shows the Spiral 1 prototype, lit and operational, in front of a large audience. The heart rate monitor module is also shown in operation for the first time, even if not calibrated. This would be only the first of a series of modules in the design phase capable of transforming the smartphone into an electro-medical device.
Furthermore, some interesting economic details are confirmed through the words of the designer. We thus learn that the endoskeleton will be placed in an economic price range, that is around $ 50, that there will be modules of all kinds (and for each pocket) and that a market dedicated to these small components will be created. The purpose of the latter, in particular, is to allow the consumer to buy or resell the pieces of his smartphone as needed and in total freedom.
The question about the possibility of printing some parts of the device in 3D is not long in coming. The answer, unfortunately, is negative in this case, at least for the moment. From now on, however, we will have the possibility to modify the shell of the modules at will, thanks to the fact that the external parts in polycarbonate will be interchangeable.
Furthermore, in view of simplification for the consumer, it has been announced that in the shops will be available some tools called "Phone Makers", which will allow, once the customer needs have been entered, to recommend a particular module configuration.
The interesting interview in full version is available here.
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