Seminar Report

Phonebloks
ABSTRACT
Phonebloks is an innovative idea created by David Hakkens from Netherlands
that uses modular technology in order to build a cellular device that will be
longer lasting in the hopes of sustaining our technological dependency without
producing excessive amounts of waste. A Phonebloks is an open source project
for customers around the world to develop the sustainable and adaptable
technology devices that they need.
A Phoneblok comprised of two terms Phone and Blok. A Blok is the
base. A phone is the combined parts of the machinery required by a customer. So,
a phonebloks is the new generation mobile phone which can be modified to its
full extent.
Concept of phonebloks works similar to desktop available in the market
i.e., for instance if we are having low memory on our phone we can simple
upgrade the specific component that holds the memory of the device, if we want
heavy graphics then we can replace an unused component with a graphic card
and if we need more computation power then there is no need to replace entire
phone we can straightforward replace the processor component.
In a nutshell, a Phoneblok is modular, much flexible, provides much
functionality and has the fullest advantage of its features to the user. Multiple
companies work on single product unlike single company working on multiple
products and hence deliver the purest product to the customer.

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Phonebloks

CONTENTS
Acknowledgement

Abstract

Contents

Chapter- 1. Introduction

1.1 Definition

1.2 Concept of Phonebloks

1.3 History

Chapter- 2.Need for Phonebloks

2.1 How Phonebloks Are Better

2.2 Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats 8

Chapter- 3.Phonebloks

10

3.1 Purpose Of Phonebloks

3.2 Modular Technology

11
11

3.3 How Modular Technology Is Used In Phonebloks

12

3.4 Reasons For Replacing The Bloks

3.5 Components In Phonebloks

13
14

Chapter- 4.Current Research Work

16

Chapter- 5. Advantages and Disadvantages

19

5.1 Advantages

19

5.2 Disadvantages

20

5.3 Current Setup

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Chapter-7.Conclusion

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References

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CHAPTER-1
INTRODUCTION
Phoneblok is a new generation Smartphone. A Phone is nothing but a phone comprising of
blocks. Today electronic waste is increasing day to day due to many reasons like the device
may be slow, damaged or a new device into the market. By considering this damage to the
world, the concept of Phonebloks was given by a Netherlands innovator David Hakkens. It is a
new generation Smartphone mobile phone which can be modified to its full extent.

1.1 Definition
Phonebloks the name comprises of two words. They are Phone and Block. A Phone is
normal mobile phone that is used to communicate with others using wireless communication
and a Blok is a component which can be used for a specific purpose. The Blocks are normally
used for display, audio, RAM, memory, CPU and on. A Phonebloks is new generation
Smartphone that uses modular technology which is more flexibility and can be up to date with
the latest technology. The unused blocks can be replaced with the useful resources. Instead, the
phone will be made of multiple parts that can be exchanged and substituted independently
instead of as a whole device. By attaching individual third-party components (called "Bloks")
to a main board, a user would create a personalized Smartphone. These blocks can be replaced
at will if they break or the user wishes to upgrade.
Phonebloks is a revolutionary device employing a smart base that is compatible with
detachable blocks. Allowing the user to easily upgrade hardware and attach those components
that suite their lifestyle and changing daily needs. The company will launch a free collaborative
innovation platform for consumers and developers to engage in creating new blocks this is the
first smart phone company that openly involves consumers in both hardware and software
development.

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In the similar way phonebloks aims to turn your phone into a complete different phone
which will always be latest. You can upgrade your phone with any latest or high capacity part
anytime and anywhere. Like the appstore that is available online i.e., over the internet to
download software in our Smartphone, A Blokstore will be available where one can upgrade his
old Blok with the new. All the blocks are available in most desired shape and structure. The
blocks can be manufactured by any manufacturer that means these blocks are not manufacturer
specific.

1.2 Concept of Phonebloks

Phonebloks would consist of a main board onto which Bloks could be snapped on by the user
like Lego bricks. Each Blok is responsible for a unique function of the phone, much as
a desktop computer has a distinct sound card, graphics card, processor, monitor, and power
supply. As a result, instead of replacing the entire phone when it becomes obsolete or broken,
one could simply replace the defective or performance-limiting part. If the consumer wanted a
better camera, for example, he or she could swap their small generic camera Blok for a larger
zoom camera from a manufacturer such as Nikon or Canon instead of buying a phone with a
better camera. In theory, this would lead to fewer people throwing away their phones and
contributing to the ever-increasing problem of electronic waste. Smartphones based on the
Phonebloks system would be sold part by part, as well as in starter sets. When assembled, the
phone would have a screen covering the entirety of the front, volume buttons and headphone
jacks along the outer edge, and Bloks clicked into the back, forming a rectangular block shape.

1.3

History

David Hakkens from Netherlands has created one of the most revolutionary concepts of the
21st century, known as Phonebloks. His idea is that we can reduce a huge amount of electronic
waste by simply upgrading individual components, or Bloks of our phones, rather than
discarding the entire phone if something breaks or becomes obsolete. This in turn will reduce
electronic waste, conserve natural resources, and protect consumers at the same time. He has
made the Phonebloks concept open-source, so any group such as PhoneBloks.org (thats us) can
take the idea to the next level, and produce a working, viable Phonebloks phone. A user would
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create a personalized Smartphone. These Bloks can be replaced at will if they break or the user
wishes to upgrade.

CHAPTER-2
NEED FOR PHONEBLOKS
As the electronic market changes every day, it has increased a lot of e-waste. For a single
upgrade, we need to change the whole phone. Precise shape and structure leads to
inconvenience to some customers. Mobile needs to be flexible. It must only have the
customers required features. For all the above needs David Hakkens has given the solution
with his innovative idea Phonebloks.

2.1 How phonebloks are better

A Phonebloks is better compared to the Smartphones available in the market because

It is green.
A Modular Smartphone.
Customization to its fitness.
Mobile flexibility.
It can be up-to-date.
Easy to upgrade individual components.
Open source platform.

2.2 Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats

2.2.1 Strengths

Customizable - The Phoneblok platform allows the consumer to customize a

Smartphones to suit the highly specific demands of their lifestyle

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Strong partners - Strategic partnership with Motorola and Google in modular phone

technology
Green and sustainable product - The open modular platform has the ability to upgrade
with biodegradable Bloks that can reduce e-waste.

2.2.2 Weaknesses

Software compatibility - Necessity to develop cross-functional software that is

compatible to modular hardware components

2.2.3 Opportunities

Always up-to-date technology - Bloks are easily customizable and upgradable.

Friendly to new and upcoming technology - Modular pieces allow integration between
the phone and modular technology devices, allowing hardware to be shared between

devices
Points of difference to Apple and Samsung - Phonebloks is a white box, not only in
regard to software but also hardware; flexible, sustainable, cheaper, innovative, and

customer driven
Open-source - Open-source technology allows for a unique continuous customer

interaction in product development

Blok store and global delivery system - Online access to purchase and exchange Bloks
in the online store.

2.2.4 Threats

Design attractiveness - Customers are holding all the power in regard to design and
therefore this could be an issue whether its physical appearance is appealing to the

majority of customers.
Threat of substitutes - The current smart devices offerings on the market are substitutes
to the modular.
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CHAPTER-3
PHONEBLOKS
Phonebloks uses modular technology in order to build a cellular device that will be longer
lasting in the hopes of sustaining our technological dependency without producing excessive
amounts of waste. Instead, the phone will be made of multiple parts that can be exchanged and
substituted independently instead of as a whole device. Consumers will be able to customize
their device and support different brands depending on what they are looking for in a phone.
Phonebloks aims to turn your phone into a complete different phone which will always
be latest. You can upgrade your phone with any latest or high capacity part anytime and
anywhere. Like the appstore that is available online i.e., over the internet to download software
in our Smartphone, A Blokstore will be available where one can upgrade his old Blok with the
new. All the blocks are available in most desired shape and structure. The blocks can be
manufactured by any manufacturer that means these blocks are not manufacturer specific.

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3.1 Phonebloks

3.6 Purpose of Phonebloks

3.1.1 Stop the Waste
Electronic waste is a growing problem for a world in which the daily dependency and
fascination with electronics is demanding and constant technological progress. When outdated
or broken electronic products (such as phones, computers, VHS players, etc.) are thrown away,
the waste is considered "e-waste". As more products are produced and distributed, more
products are thrown away.

3.1.2 Customizable Mobile Phone

The main purpose of the phonebloks is get upgraded from the block level of a mobile
phone instead of replacing to a new mobile phone. An online Blok Store will be made available
where customers can build their own phone, exchange and review Bloks with other customers,
and purchase accessories. In order to appeal to all budgets, three distinct models appealing to
multiple income segments will be made available during the selection process. Afterwards, the
customer will be able to make adjustments to his base-product to modify it according to his/her
specific needs. Afterwards, the total price will be displayed and the purchasing/shipping
process will be conducted.

3.2 Modular Technology

Modular design in phonebloks hardware is the same as modular design in other things
(e.g. cars, fridges, even furniture). The idea is to build Phonebloks with easily replaceable parts
that use standardized interfaces. This technique allows you to upgrade certain aspects of the
computer easily without having to buy another computer altogether.
A computer is actually one of the best examples of modular design - typical modules
are power supply units, processors, main boards, graphics cards, hard drives, optical drives, etc.
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All of these parts should be easily interchangeable as long as you use parts that support the
same standard interface as the part you replaced.

3.3 How Modular Technology is used in Phonebloks

Modular technology is used to get done with a new mobile phone Phonebloks. In
Phonebloks, every hardware component called Blok. The Bloks usually are screen, wifi,
memory, RAM, camera etc. Every Blok consists of four pins which are in connection with
other Bloks by using base as intermediate to transmit signals. All the Bloks are put together
with the help of two screws at the bottom of the mobile phone. The Bloks can be upgraded with
the help of Blokstore available in desired shapes.

3.3.1 Bloks used in Phonebloks

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3.3.2 Screws used to put Bloks together

3.4 Reasons for replacing the Bloks

The Bloks in this Smartphones are replaced because of following reasons, if

Bloks are damaged.

Any upgrade is required.

Broken Bloks.

Unused components.

If every is stored is online then there is no need of any internal memory and we require more
battery backup.

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3.4.1 Upgrading of Battery

If you are interested in taking photograph then you can upgrade to a better camera without
replacing the entire device.

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3.4.2 Upgrading to better camera

3.5 Components in Phonebloks

The main components of Phonebloks are

Base

Blok

3.5.1 Base
The base is like spinal card in human being. It is responsible for connecting one Blok to
all the remaining Bloks. All the Bloks are injected into the base with the help of the pins

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present in each Blok. The Blok is connected to the Base and the Base connects to everything
over the Base.

3.5.1.2 The Base

3.5.2 Bloks
Bloks are the hardware required to make entire phone. These are placed over the Base
to communicate with all other hardware with the help of Base.

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3.5.2.2 Bloks

CHAPTER-4
CURRENT RESEARCH WORK
Motorola late Monday unveiled Project Ara, a hardware platform that would allow
consumers to build their own Smartphones by snapping modular parts into a frame. The
Libertyville, Ill.-based Company, owned by Google Inc., has been working on Project Ara for
more than a year and is opening the design process to the public.
Project Ara marks Motorola's most ambitious effort yet in customizable mobile devices,
a vision it introduced with this summer's launch of the Moto X. That Smartphone lets
consumers choose from an array of colors for the device's back plate and external hardware
accents.
With Project Ara, the ability to customize the phone extends into the display, keyboard,
camera, battery and processor. A shutterbug might opt for a high-definition display and a
camera with lots of megapixels, while a frequent business traveler might choose a battery with
extended life. A modular design also means a Smartphone owner who wants to upgrade or
replace a single part - a sluggish processor or a cracked screen, for example - could do so
without buying a new device.
Motorola's goal is "to give you the power to decide what your phone does, how it looks,
where and what it's made of, how much it costs, and how long you'll keep it," the company's
Advanced Technology and Projects group said in a blog post. Motorola declined to comment
beyond the post.
Project Ara's modular phones appear far from hitting store shelves; the initiative has to
overcome a number of engineering and design challenges before becoming reality.

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Motorola is pushing forward by partnering with Phonebloks, a modular mobile phone
concept created by Netherlands-based designer Dave Hakkens. He posted a YouTube video last
month explaining his idea and generated significant online buzz, with the video garnering
nearly 17 million views.
As Hakkens explained in a follow-up video on the Phonebloks website, he talked with a
number of companies and discovered that Motorola was already working on a similar concept.
The two groups joined forces, though Hakkens said Phonebloks will stay independently funded.
Motorola said in its blog post that it will tap the Phonebloks community for feedback.
The company also has hired Dscout, a Chicago technology firm, to manage an ongoing
consumer research program.
Volunteers who sign up online to be "research scouts" will be asked to complete a series
of tasks, such as answering questions and snapping photos. Responses are submitted through a
mobile application.
Tens of thousands of participants have already signed up - about twice the number of
volunteers that typically complete projects with Dscout, said Chief Executive Michael Winnick.
The Ara program is expected to run for about a year, and Dscout volunteers might get first
crack at early prototypes of the modular phone.
Dscout has worked with Motorola before, but the Ara project stands out in its "level of
ambition and scale," said Winnick, adding that it also is "very rare for a large organization to be
out there and open" about new product development.
Chris Jansen, a Chicagoan who works in information security and saw the Phonebloks
YouTube video, signed up to be a research scout for Ara. He was drawn to "designing a phone
in an entirely new way based on community feedback, especially because it takes the idea of
'you can upgrade what's important to you' out of the control of the carriers."
The Ara project also attracted Alex Pedenko, co-founder of Chicago-based startup
Swingbyte. He used to build his own PCs and is intrigued by the potential to customize a
mobile phone with components such as an air-quality sensor or barometer.
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"It opens the door for third-party accessories that people haven't even thought of right
now," said Pedenko, whose company makes a gadget that clips onto a golf club and collects
data on a player's swing.
Technology companies have experimented with modular mobile devices in the past.
Handspring, the maker of the Palm Pilot personal digital assistant, offered modules such as an
MP3 player or GPS unit that plugged into the gadget like a video game cartridge.
Project Ara envisions components fitting into a frame called the endoskeleton, Motorola
said in its blog post.
The concept faces hurdles in consumer adoption and engineering. For starters, the
ability to choose a battery or processor might appeal only to a narrow technical crowd.

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CHAPTER-5
ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES
5.1

ADVANTAGES:
Customer Empowerment
o Phonebloks allows the consumer to interact and give feedback on the mobile
phone they want through our integrated online customer platform

Customizable o online platform allows the consumer to customize a Smartphone to suit the highly

o Specic demands of their lifestyle

Flexibility in price
o The modularity of the product allows it to compete in the lower- and higher-priced
o Smartphone segments

Strong partners

Strategic partnership with Motorola and Google in modular phone technology

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Innovative Product
o Creative collaboration between Smartphones producers and customers
o continuity of unlimited creative input

Green and sustainable product

o The open modular platform has the ability to upgrade with biodegradable ,

o Bloks that can reduce e-waste

5.2 DISADVANTAGES
Partner-reliant business model
o Product development is reliant on current partners and probability to
attract
o new ones
Software compatibility

o Necessity to develop cross-functional software that is compatible to

modular

o hardware components
Low brand awareness
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Phonebloks
o Many smart phone users are not aware of Phonebloks and its benets
due to little
o advertising
Financial and legal stability
o Reliant on crowd-funding and Motorola as well as intellectual property
o protection hurdles with existing patents
Economies of scale and scope
o Phonebloks is a start-up company starting in a highly competitive
industry
o which gives the company the disadvantage of economies of scale and
-scope

5.3

CURRENT SETUP
Speed
Battery
Storage
Network
Camera
Audio
Weight

:
:
:
:
:
:
:

Intel Quad Core 4

2000mAh
8GB
4G
12MP Canon HD
Bose 4.0
130 Gram

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CHAPTER-6
CONCLUSION
Phonebloks is a good way to prevent e-waste. It provides much functionality in a
compact manner. Phonebloks are much flexible as compared to the legacy phones
has the fullest advantage of its features to the user. Multiple companies work on
single product unlike single company working on multiple products and hence
deliver the purest product to the customer. Multiple companies work on single
product unlike single company.

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REFERENCES

o McNicoll, Arion. "Phonebloks: The Smartphone for the rest of your

life". CNN.com. Retrieved 23 October 2013.
o Oswald, Ed. "Modu looks to make cell phones 'modular'". betanews. Retrieved
10 November 2013.
o US application 20110230178, Jones; Gregory G.; (Seattle, WA) ; Hanson; Lisa
M.; (Issaquah, WA) ; Kleist; Thomas; (Redbourn, GB); Hanson; Lisa M &
Kleist;

Thomas,

"MOBILE

COMMUNICATION

DEVICE

HAVING

MULTIPLE, INTERCHANGEABLE SECOND DEVICES", published 201109-22, issued, assigned to Microsoft Corporation
o Hakkens, David. "Phonebloks: A Phone Worth Keeping (Idea)". Retrieved 10
November 2013.

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