We already wrote a bit regarding Google's Project Ara, which is basically a Google's view of a modular smartphone, and according to fresh report, it appears that Google is targeting the US $50 price tag for an entry-level model which will include basic modules to get you started.
While the working prototype is weeks away, Google's Project Ara retail version of the modular smartphone is not expected before Q1 2015. The US $50 price tag for an entry-level set of modules, which include a touchscreen, WiFi and a circuit to connect it to, sounds quite impressive as does the fact that Google plans to open kiosks where you would be able to buy additional modules and eventually get your US $50 entry-level model up to a high-end smartphone with everything you need.
According to first details, the Project Ara will eventually come in three different sizes which should cover most of the market but would also make the smartphone a bit less customizable. Of course, if the modules are compatible between sizes, this should ease up some things.
According to those same reports, the initial prototype is 9.7mm thick but the final one will eventually depend on the battery module which you actually choose. The same Google Advanced Technology and Projects (ATAP) group is also working with a 3D printing tech company which should allow buyers to eventually design their own case for the Project Ara.
Of course, all of things surrounding the Project Ara definitely sound good on paper and hopefully we will hear a lot more when the Ara Developers' Conference kicks off on April 15th.
Source:
Techland.Time.com.