Project Ara is Google’s want to produce smartphones you could not just upgrade the software on, nevertheless the hardware too. So rather than buy a brand new phone, you can just swap out your old processor for a newer model, or customize your phone with a bigger battery when you’re going in long trips. This may appear just a little fanciful, but Google has already shown off working types of this technology. Real-world trial will later begin this year by selling Project Ara smartphones exclusively in Puerto Rico.
Provided just how innovative this technology is, you can imagine that Google will be keen to crow about it with this year’s keynote, discussing the Caribbean trial and perhaps showing off the Spiral 3 modular smartphone. This model is designed to have 4G connectivity, support for a broader range of modules (including those produced by third-party manufacturers) and enhanced battery life. Those holding out for a worldwide launch will be sorely disappointed though.