New patent reveals Facebook is exploring a modular phone

Facebook is exploring new handheld gadget with interchangeable parts that could used like a smartphone or portable speaker, a new patent application revealed on Thursday.

The product is described in the patent as a "modular electromagnetic device" and would work with different swappable modules like a speaker, microphone, GPS system, touchpad, and even a thermometer. 

People would be encouraged to swap out modules they wanted to replace, or they could completely customize the gadget to fit their specific needs.

"From a consumer perspective, the life cycle of conventional consumer electronics is expensive and wasteful," Facebook said in the patent application.  Read more...