Transforming Phone - Modu Changes Function with Jackets (VIDEO)

Modu unveiled a revolutionary tiny new modular mobile phone that can work on its own or be slipped into assorted “jackets” that transform it into different types of devices. Slide it into a jacket with a 3½-inch screen, and the device turns into a media player perfect for watching movies. Slip it into an iPod-like sleeve, and Modu becomes a music player with dedicated buttons and a screen for album art.

The Modu phone module, which weighs only 1.3 ounces and is smaller than a credit card, could conceivably serve as a sidekick to much more than handheld devices. It could, for example, be slipped into a bedstand alarm clock to display incoming text (SMS) messages. Inserted in a car’s dashboard, Modu could allow for hands-free calling over the stereo system or provide an address book for the car’s GPS navigation system. Slipped into a laptop, Modu could provide mobile Internet access. Philips Electronics has already shown interest in developing compatible productsfor Modu. “This is the tip of the iceberg,” says Modu owener Moran. “This is a way to provide communications capability to any device.”

If this modular approach, with detachable components that can be snapped on or off to suit specific needs, takes off it would bring a sudden burst of customization to an industry where personalization has amounted to little more than detachable face plates to change a phone’s color. There would appear to be demand among cell phone users. A recent survey by CommScore found that 41% of the 18- to 24-year-olds and about a third of the 25- to 34-year-olds said personalization of cell phones was important.

After watching the video, and how it can slip into your car, notebook, home media center, etc… I feel this is going to be more than just a fad.