AllYouCanTech

Comprehending Modular Smartphones: Cutting-Edge and Thrilling Technology

The concept of the modular phone has evolved significantly over the years, but in a positive manner.

Welcome to Tech Talk, a weekly column focused on the devices we use and their functioning. We strive to keep it straightforward here so that everyone can comprehend how and why the gadget in your hand operates as it does.

There may be moments when things get a bit technical, as that’s the essence of technology — it can be complicated and detailed. However, together we can simplify it all and make it understandable!

You might not be interested in how all this operates, and that’s perfectly fine too. Your tech devices are personal and should bring enjoyment. Yet, you might just pick up some knowledge along the way…

What constitutes a modular phone?

A few years back, the concept of a modular phone emerged. Companies discussed products like Phoneblocks and Project Ara, and we were quite enthusiastic about what we were hearing. They were phones that users could configure; you determined elements like which processor to select, the amount of memory, the camera lenses, and so forth.

What made them an exciting idea was the ability to swap those components out and modify them in the future. Imagine constructing a custom computer and choosing the parts you desire, then upgrading one of them later on.

That vision never came to fruition and honestly, was never going to be practical. Phones contain fundamental components that are all permanently connected to a main circuit board, and your only option is to replace the entire (costly) board. There was never going to be a battery-operated device with interchangeable components that didn’t weigh a couple of pounds, and it would run so hot that it would be unmanageable.

The modular label remained, though, and like many concepts, its definition transformed. Now, when you think of a modular phone, you’re referring to something that is user-serviceable; there’s no need for industrial tools to open and replace some parts that often require changing.

In contrast to phones at the other end of the repairability spectrum, such as foldables, modular phones are engineered to be sustainable. The companies producing them sell components like a new battery or a replacement screen, and with a screwdriver and a guitar pick, you can replace them yourself at your kitchen table.

When you hear discussions about a modular phone, this is what they mean. Devices like the new Fairphone or the HMD Skyline are constructed with the idea that you can swap out the parts that typically fail or deteriorate, enabling you to continue using them for a longer period. Coupled with the software support from certain companies, you might use a phone for six or seven years.

This interpretation of modular is significantly better.

I concede that the notion of upgrading the chip inside your phone next year when newer and more powerful variants are released is incredibly appealing. However, it’s also unfeasible. What we possess is nearly as good, and in some respects, even superior.

You’re likely going to purchase a new phone this year or next. It’s part of what we do and what we’ve come to accept. Regardless of how fond we are of what we already have, it will eventually wear out or simply be replaced by something newer and “better.”

What if you could keep the phone you adored when you bought it functioning just as well for years? That’s what “modular” provides. If you accidentally crack the screen, you buy a new one and replace it. When the battery loses its charge, you simply insert a brand-new one. Even components like camera lenses or USB ports have been designed for replacement on some phones without necessitating the purchase of an entirely new set of internals.

New products will still be alluring, partly because companies producing them will convince us how much superior they are compared to what you currently hold. But understanding exactly what to expect and being able to maintain it that way is fantastic. Some items just shouldn’t be disposable.

If you’re not particularly handy with a screwdriver, modular also means lower repair costs. If fixing it is straightforward for us, it’s equally easy for someone equipped with the right tools and expertise to tackle.

You can think of sustainability when you hear modular; they signify the same concept. I only wish more phones were designed in this manner.

Reasons to Go Back to This Clamshell Retro Gaming Handheld

There’s an undeniable pleasure in a clamshell device.

One of the highlights of this profession is the opportunity to play with technology that comes in a multitude of shapes, sizes, and designs. This also holds true for gaming consoles, as we’re not limited to merely Game Boy or Switch replicas. In the past few months, several more clamshell gadgets have emerged, such as the Anbernic RG34XXSP, which seeks to capture the essence of the Game Boy Advance SP.

What makes a clamshell handheld so appealing isn’t the capabilities, but rather the simple presence of a lid. This year alone, the Miyoo Flip, Retroid Pocket 2 Flip, and Anbernic RG34XXSP have hit the market, and most of the time, you can snag a good deal. For instance, the RG34XXSP is currently priced at $85.99 on Amazon, reflecting a discount of nearly 15%.

Meanwhile, the Miyoo Flip is even more affordable, with the best price we’ve encountered dropping it to approximately $75. And if that still exceeds your budget, the Powkiddy V90S has just launched and is already listed on Amazon for about $50.

In contrast to the Retroid Pocket Flip 2, neither of these devices operates on Android. Instead, you’ll find a custom iteration of Linux from either Anbernic or Miyoo that serves as the entry point for all your games.

However, there’s an entire realm of custom firmware available, like KNULLI or muOS, that enhances the experience. Though, unless you are particularly keen on customization, the stock firmware on the RG34XXSP should suffice.

Right from the get-go, the RG34XXSP stands out as a remarkable imitation of the Game Boy Advance SP. The hinge is robust, the controls are precise, and while a tad small for some users, the 3.4-inch display remains sharp.

When it comes to controls, that’s what truly won me over with the RG34XXSP. While I thoroughly enjoyed my RG35XXSP, I gradually stopped using it since some games didn’t work well with emulated joysticks when using a D-pad.

With the RG34XXSP, that’s no longer a concern, as this handheld features dual sticks positioned below the other controls. So as long as everything is set up correctly in RetroArch, I can launch a PS1 game and dive right in.

Despite all this, you might wonder why I would even think about the RG34XXSP when I have access to more powerful hardware. For one, I mentally categorize the types of games I intend to play on different handhelds.

The RG34XXSP allows me to play nearly anything up to N64 and Dreamcast, which is where classics like Pokémon reside. My Android handhelds are where I experiment more, like attempting to get various Windows games to function via Winlator or GameHub. Meanwhile, my assortment of x86 handhelds caters to anything that isn’t supported on the others.

Another reason I’m a big fan of the RG34XXSP is that I can easily slip it into my pocket without the need for a case or screen protector. I’m not certain if it can withstand the same level of abuse as the GBA SP, but up to this point, it’s held up remarkably well.

I can quickly jump into a game when I have a few spare minutes, close the lid, and continue on my way. Then, when I open the lid again, after a moment, the game resumes exactly where I paused.

Finally, the accessibility of most retro handhelds is quite low. They tend to be affordable, available in varied form factors, and are easy to recommend to nearly anyone. Add on a solid discount, and you’ve got a gadget that can deliver hours of enjoyment for yourself or for others.

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