Google Ara Concept

Modular smartphone UI concept — configuring every component from dimensions and OS to modules and accessories.

Overview

Google Ara is a phone, the filling of which a person can choose for himself. For example, the CPU, RAM, battery, and even the shape of the phone. To solve the problem of assembly, this concept was created.

During the process, a question came up: does the policy allow selling a phone with 15 modules out of 20? After all, even without five modules the phone might still function... In my version, completing all required core modules is mandatory.

Dimensions & Form Factor

The first step to the creation of the phone is the choice of its dimensions.

For better orientation in scale, with each dimension appears a schematic illustration of how the phone feels in your hand. Next, determine the form factor...

Size selection with hand illustration
First step — choose phone size
Form factor selection
Step 1 — Dimensions selection with hand scale illustration as primary visual anchor, size selector, and form factor options

Prototype in Motion

In the dynamics of the first steps look something like this:

Constructor & Module Configuration

The screen designer. You can quickly change the shape or size of the phone. Choosing the first two options (color and OS) determines the composition of subsequent options, which explains why they are locked until confirmed.

On the screen there is an informer showing the amount of free and occupied slots. Help topics are available for each of the modules, and clicking “All features” displays full technical specifications.

Module builder full view — accent screen
Module configuration screen
Module detail with help overlay
Module specifications page
The designer screen: main constructor view set large with locked option dependencies, accompanied by slots informer, module help overlay, and full specs view

Accessories

When the choice of core modules is completed and the phone can work, the person is given the opportunity to provide it with accessories.

Accessories step
Accessories step — equipping the phone once core modules are assembled

Full Page View

The designer page entirely.

google.com/ara
Complete builder screen
The complete builder screen from top to bottom