Google is set to release its modular smartphone to developers later this year, ahead of its commercial release in 2017.

The search giant has been working under the device as “Project Ara” for some time, including development efforts by Motorola when it was owned by Google. A launch in January 2015 was mooted, although this was pushed back after it was revealed that more early “iterations” were needed.

In an update made at last week’s Google I/O developer event, it was said that Google had moved Ara into its own business unit, describing it as “our vision for the future of phones”.

The Wall Street Journal said that as part of its development work, Google has migrated “more technology in the device’s base to clear room for more modules”. This seems to mean that some parts – such as the processor, phone hardware and display – will not be swappable.

While the company is likely to offer some modules itself, it is also looking to work with a wider ecosystem of providers, with mooted partners including Samsung, Sony and Panasonic.

The idea of Ara is that users would be able to personalise and upgrade their smartphones by adding new modules, which can also be removed when not in use. For example, an extra battery could be added for long working days, or a loudspeaker for social use.

According to The Verge, in order to get hold of a developer device, participants need to detail the type of module they are looking to build. The report mooted peripherals such as projectors, lights and health-focused modules as future options.