Judging by the updates posted about Google’s Project Ara, modular phones are likely to become reality in the next few years. In the meantime, you can get yourself acquainted with modular mobile technology with Nexpaq, a modular smartphone case that lets you bring new features to an erstwhile static device.
It uses a design similar to Project Ara, with modules that you slip into the back of the case. Want your phone to have as much battery power as possible? Yes, this can accommodate that. How about three sets of speakers? Sure. More memory than you’ll have use for? Not a problem.
There are six slots available on the Nexpaq that can take any of the available modules, allowing you to mix and match according to your personal needs. Twelve modules are currently on the option list, namely a 400mAh battery, a microSD card reader, an amplified speaker, a 64GB flash drive, a temperature/humidity sensor, flashlight with six multi-color LEDs, a laser pointer, an air quality sensor, a breathalyzer, shortcut buttons, a USB flash drive that you can plug into a PC (32 and 64GB varieties), and a dummy (just a placeholder when you don’t have any active modules to add). Oh yeah, each case also comes with an integrated 1,000 mAh battery, so if nothing else, you can use it to extend the life of your phone on the road without having to carry a power bank.
An accompanying app lets you control the modules as if it’s a part of the phone, making the new features a functional addition to any handset. Even better, the modules work on both Android and iOS ecosystems, so you can swap a module from your Galaxy S6 to your iPhone 6 with no issues.
Nexpaq is currently running a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter. Pledges to reserve a unit starts at $109.