Google is working with Rockchip on modular smartphone

Google has announced that it is partnering with Rockchip to develop an application processor that can be used for the modular smartphone Project Ara. The first model with OMAP 4460-soc, meanwhile, has been delayed.

In a post on the social network Google+, the company announced that it has entered into a partnership with the Chinese producer of low-cost socs Rockchip. The latter will develop a chip that is compatible with Project Ara. A prototype of Project Ara with Rockchip is expected in early 2015 and is likely to be the third version of the modular smartphone to be shown to the world. No specifications have been announced yet.

Meanwhile, a production error has delayed the first version of Project Ara. Initially, the first developer versions of the modular smartphone should have been delivered at the end of July, but due to applying the wrong coating during the production process, it can take another two weeks before the first models leave the factory.

Google is still working on the design of a second version of Project Ara. The company promises to show the new hardware at a developer meeting this year.