Smartphones in 2025 are smarter, faster, more connected—and more fragile than ever. Foldables, multi-camera setups, ultra-thin frames, and compact motherboard designs make modern devices powerful but difficult to repair. But there’s a growing shift in the tech world, one that’s slowly reshaping how consumers (and repair shops like Smart Electronix) approach broken devices:

Modular phones.

While modular devices aren’t mainstream yet, their rise in 2025 signals a major step forward for sustainability, repairability, and consumer control. Modular phones are designed with swappable components—meaning users or technicians can replace parts like the battery, camera, buttons, or even the display with ease.

At Smart Electronix, we’ve seen firsthand how this shift is transforming device repair, costs, and sustainability across Australia.

This blog explores what modular phones are, why they matter, and how they’re changing repairability in 2025.

⭐ What Are Modular Phones? A Quick Breakdown

A modular smartphone is designed with independent, replaceable modules, allowing users or technicians to swap out components without extensive disassembly.

Common modules include:

• Battery

• Camera

• Display

• USB Type-C charging port

• Speaker and microphone sets

• SIM/SD card assembly

• Buttons and side keys

• Motherboard sub-modules

Instead of using heavy adhesives or soldered connections, modular phones rely on:

• screws

• clips

• plug-and-play connectors

• easy-access frames

This reduces repair time and allows parts to be replaced without damaging surrounding components.

Brands leading the movement in 2025 include:

• Fairphone (Europe)

• Framework (expanding into mobile concepts)

• Motorola’s modular Moto Mods (limited but influential)

• Google Pixel (supporting more modular-friendly internal layouts)

• Several emerging Asian manufacturers

While not as widespread as traditional smartphones, the trend is accelerating—driven by consumer demand, environmental regulations, and the Right to Repair movement.

⭐ Why Modular Phones Matter in 2025

The year 2025 marks a turning point. With growing environmental awareness and supply chain pressures, consumers want devices that last longer, cost less to repair, and reduce electronic waste.

Here’s why modular phones are becoming the preferred choice:

1. They Are Easier and Cheaper to Repair

Traditional smartphones often require:

• heat guns

• delicate adhesive removal

• advanced micro-soldering

• risk of damaging nearby components

Modular phones eliminate most of these difficulties.

For example:

• A battery can be replaced in 30 seconds.

• A damaged camera module can be swapped without removing the display.

• A broken charging port doesn’t require motherboard repair.

This means lower labour costs and faster turnaround times.

2. They Support Long-Term Sustainability

Modular devices reduce e-waste dramatically because:

• users replace only the broken part

• fewer devices end up in recycling centres

• components can be refurbished and reused

Smart Electronix already sees increased interest in sustainable repairs, especially from environmentally conscious Australian consumers.

3. They Empower Consumers With More Control

Modular phones allow users to:

• upgrade their camera without buying a new phone

• replace their battery annually without technician help

• switch out a cracked screen at home

This aligns perfectly with Australia’s growing Right to Repair movement.

4. They Reduce the Need for Manufacturer-Controlled Repairs

Companies like Apple and Samsung have historically limited repairs by:

• locking parts to serial numbers

• using proprietary screws

• restricting access to diagnostics

Modular phones shift power back to the user and independent shops—like Smart Electronix.

⭐ How Modular Phones Are Changing the Repair Landscape in Australia

At Smart Electronix, our technicians already see how modular designs are reshaping everyday repair workflows. Here’s what’s changing:

1. Faster Repairs & Less Downtime

Simple parts like:

• batteries

• speakers

• buttons

• cameras

Can be replaced quickly—sometimes in under 10 minutes. This means:

• faster service

• lower repair costs

• higher customer satisfaction

2. Reduced Need for High-Risk Micro-Soldering

Many modern repairs require micro-soldering due to:

• charging IC failures

• backlight issues

• broken flex cables

With modular designs, these risks decrease because components are separate and replaceable.

This makes repairs less expensive and reduces the chance of accidental damage.

3. Wider Availability of Spare Parts

Modular manufacturers often sell modules directly, meaning:

• genuine parts

• high compatibility

• consistent performance

This eliminates the uncertainty that often comes with third-party aftermarket components.

4. Improved Device Lifespan

A modular phone can last:

• 5 years

• 7 years

• even 10 years

Since individual modules can be upgraded, repaired, or replaced without swapping the entire phone, users stay in control for longer.

This reduces the need for yearly phone upgrades.

5. Better Repair Diagnostics

Modular design makes troubleshooting easier:

• Technicians can test modules one by one

• Faulty parts can be isolated quickly

• Complex failures become simpler to identify

Smart Electronix uses specialised diagnostic tools to evaluate module-level performance, making repairs more precise.

⭐ Why Modular Phones Haven’t Taken Over Yet

Despite the benefits, modular phones still face challenges:

1. Manufacturers Profit From Non-Modular Designs

They earn more when consumers upgrade devices frequently.

2. Thin and Foldable Phones Are Hard to Make Modular

Ultra-thin frames limit space for easily detachable components.

3. Mass Market Isn’t Fully Aware

Many users still don’t know modular options exist.

4. Higher Initial Cost

Modular phones sometimes cost more upfront due to premium materials.

However, with sustainability and repairability becoming mainstream priorities in 2025, modular phones are gaining traction faster than ever.

⭐ Smart Electronix Insight: The Future of Modular Phone Repairs

Based on current trends and market behaviour, our repair experts predict:

1. More Brands Will Adopt Semi-Modular Designs

Even if not fully modular, companies will start making:

• easier battery replacements

• detachable charging ports

• independent camera modules

This middle ground improves repairability without sacrificing ultra-thin designs.

2. Modular Laptops Will Influence Smartphones

Framework’s success with modular laptops may push mobile manufacturers to follow similar designs.

3. Australia Will Strengthen Right-to-Repair Laws

Making modular devices even more appealing to consumers.

4. Repair Shops Will Upgrade Tools for Modular Systems

Smart Electronix already stocks:

• fast-disassembly tools

• module testing stations

• component-swapping calibration software

These help diagnose and repair modular phones more efficiently.

⭐ Final Thoughts

Modular phones represent one of the most promising advancements in smartphone design—giving consumers more freedom, lowering repair costs, and reducing e-waste across Australia.

As the tech world evolves, Smart Electronix remains committed to supporting:

• sustainability

• repairability

• consumer rights

• high-quality replacement modules

• expert diagnostics

Whether you’re using a modular phone or a traditional smartphone, we ensure your device stays functional, durable, and long-lasting.