LG’s modular gambit stalls

LG’s bold design move to include an expansion slot for bespoke removable modules in its flagship phone isn’t paying off. The company has reshuffled management and admitted that the "latest flagship G5 smartphone failed to generate sales”, but didn’t say by how much.

Korean source Aju Business Daily suggests LG will lower its Q2 shipment estimates from 16.5 million to 15 million, of which 2.5 million are G5s - a million lower than expected. LG is under tough pressure from Korean rival Samsung and Chinese volume players like Huawei and ZTE.

Modular phones just don't seem to have mass market appeal. Google said its scaled-back Ara project won't now ship until next year. We'll believe it when we see it. ®