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As such,Project Ara was abandoned in September 2016.

Very few have really taken off.

an image of the Google Project Ara concept phone

But on the whole, theres precious little modular consumer tech around.

In fact, as tech generations marched onward, devices have become less upgradable even at a basic level.

The cost for this tech evolution is a lack of flexibility and the need for professional repairs.

An image showing Google’s Project Ara modules

Granted, old component modules may become e-waste - but perhaps to a lesser degree.

Of course, getting people to buy into the idea is another problem.

But its a niche, and a small one at that.

Fairphone 3

One of the best examples of true modularity can be found with theFramework laptops.

If nothing else, just let us just swap batteries.

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Framework Laptop DIY Edition on a wood desk