Project Ara, a modular phone technology where users can swap out broken parts or splice in upgrades, is scheduled to ship out later this year to developers, and then next year to consumers.

The device is designed to solve longevity problems related to single-block devices, containing six modules (including the camera lens) that can be traded out or up on demand. Some of the similarly-sized modules are also interchangeable, letting you decide where, for instance, you want your camera to sit on the back. Developers can also build further hardware modules, creating open-source possibilities much like the Google Play app store has enabled for software development.

Other functions, however, are built into a single core, including the CPU, antenna, battery and screen display. This part of the announcement came as a bit of a disappointment to some fans and followers hoping to see a more fully modularized system. Google, however, has implied that such modularity is yet to come.

From Google: “Project Ara is a new modular computing platform, allowing devices to be customized for style and function. Choose your high-res camera, add a louder speaker, swap in a better battery. Imagine the possibilities. And we’re releasing a developer kit with device later this year. We are looking to module makers to create technology never before seen on smartphones. We’re hard at work on an open marketplace to connect the next generation of ideas with the broader Ara community. Google is looking for beloved brands and forward-thinking developers to join us.”

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A new patent filed by airplane manufacturer Airbus turns passenger cabins into cargo containers, designed to be inserted and removed as a whole from the vehicle.

Using a docking module, the removed unit would then be transported across the runway and to the airport for passengers to board. Once everyone is in their seats, the cabin would then be taken back to the aeroplane and slotted into place, ready for take off.

“In addition, the boarding method makes the presence of waiting rooms in the aircraft building superfluous, and thus makes possible substantial economies in terms of area,”according to the patent filing. It all makes some intuitive sense, for flyers as well: might as well be seated in advance rather than waiting in the airport.

Aside from that more obvious application, however, the modularity could lend itself to other benefits, including the ability to reconfigure the interiors of planes on demand or over time, by adding or removing seats, lounges or other spatial features. Alternatively, the removed units could tie into other transit systems, becoming cars of an inter-terminal train or even an extra-airport transport truck, following the lead of containerization in the cargo shipping industry.

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Treating a bicycle like a work of composite hardware (rather than a fixed object, this modular approach allows users to replace pieces and parts more easily as well as allowing incremental upgrades over time.

Developed by product design graduate student Kasper Schwartz as a thesis project, the RubyBike is (optionally) an ebike designed to address changing transportation needs and general individualization desires.

The bicycle includes a compact and lightweight frame, smaller wheels (as well as collapsible handlebars and pedals) for a slimmer total package, and reactive steering for urban environments.

The motorization is optional, and can be achieved without changing the appearance of the bike by placing the battery in the middle of the frame and swapping out the front wheel. A smartphone holder allows for easier GPS navigation, speed measurements and other tracking integrations.

The appearance and functionality are “targeted at people looking for a city-friendly everyday bicycle that is stylish, refined and characterful, but which is also practical, useful and durable, and can be easily adapted to suit their needs – even if they would eventually change.”

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Ifixit has given the new affordable, modular Fairphone 2 an unprecedented 10 out of 10 review for repairability, thanks to its intuitive construction and easy deconstruction for fixing or swapping parts. Components are clearly labeled and instructions provided on various pieces to help users add, remove and change things out.

The conflict-free phone is made by a Dutch company, which just released this second-generation model of its Fairphone creation, which it describes as a movement as much as a piece of technology. The device made for anyone but aimed at people who want to save time and money on upgrades with do-it-yourself replacement parts – helpful customizations include easy-to-see and standardized screws and well-isolated modules for easy identification and separation.

From the company: “Fairphone is a social enterprise that is building a movement for fairer electronics. By making a phone, we’re opening up the supply chain and creating new relationships between people and their products.”

“We’re making a positive impact across the value chain in mining, design, manufacturing and life cycle, while expanding the market for products that put ethical values first. Together with our community, we’re changing the way products are made.”

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A portable personal vehicle for all seasons created by German engineers, this transforming back-mounted marvel lets you finish your hillside hike then sled back down or portage between lakes (or rivers or oceans) on day trips along both land and water.

The trick behind the Backyak is in sharing the load – two people together carry pieces of the dual-person kayak then assemble it on site. However, halves can also be deployed separately for single-person use.

A slightly different ‘Relax’ configuration lets you strap together the parts to form a bathing platform. A further ‘Sail’ package turns this platform into a catamaran sailboat you can drive with wind or paddles.

For winter usage, the ‘Snow’ package adds skis to the bottom and lets you cruise down hills using your feet to steer the sled. Any extra equipment or add-ons are designed to fit neatly into the voids of the hollow pieces being carried. An electric motor for powering your water rides and additional floating pontoons are also available.

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