Puzzlephone is a modular Android smartphone that’s set to launch in 2015

Project Ara has been in the spotlight for well over a year now thanks to its modules that allow users to swap in new parts to adapt their phone for certain situations and greatly extend the life of the core of the device. Now another company has surfaced with its own take on the modular phone concept.

Finnish startup Circular Devices has introduced what its calls “Puzzlephone.” The handset has three different main parts that you’ll be able to swap. The Brain holds the main electronics of the device, including the camera; the Spine is home to the display, speakers and microphones; and the Heart holds the battery of the phone.

Puzzlephone will run a modified version of Android, though Circular Devices says that the device will eventually support other mobile OSes like Firefox OS, Sailfish and Windows Phone. It’s expected that Puzzlephone will launch in the second half of 2015 with a price similar to that of other mid-range smartphones.

While Project Ara and Puzzlephone both feature modules that let you to swap in new parts, allowing you to put off buying a totally new phone, they’re executed slightly differently. Project Ara is all about customizability, letting you pop in all kinds of individual parts, while Puzzlephone groups many pieces together in the Brain, Spine and Heart. That may make it slightly less customizable, but it could be less confusing for mainstream consumers as well.

Are you interested in owning a modular phone?

source: androidandme