The dream of a modular smartphone, as proposed by the likes of Project Ara and the LG G5, may not have become a permanent reality, but there is more than one way to actually make a modular design work. Nothing’s CMF Phone 1, launched just last month, tackled the problem from a different angle that didn’t change the smartphone design formula too much, but still opened the doors wide for modular accessories. Unsurprisingly, there was a sudden burst of creativity trying to take advantage of this new platform, and thanks to 3D printing, we can see some of the pretty curious ideas developers come up with when they push the possibilities of this modular system to the limit.

Designers: w1utree, BuildBryce, Kaburuk

To be clear, the CMF Phone 1 itself is not modular, but its removable back cover invites all sorts of modular accessories and attachments. As long as you can screw it onto the back of the phone and its usability is maintained, anything goes. These accessories can range from simple loops and stands to bottle openers and miniature Nerf guns. As long as you can 3D print it, anything goes.

The Modular Sliding System, for example, has a creative design that integrates three sliding modules that can serve as a pen, SD card holder and even a comb. The upper and lower sliding modules unfortunately have to be bent to accommodate the position of the screws on the back of the CMF Phone 1. Swapping out the modules is quite easy and there is plenty of space for other tools you may want to always have in your pocket.

The Brick Case is a little less ambitious but even more creative, and yes, it practically turns the CMF Phone 1 into a large LEGO-like brick. At first glance, it might seem like a purely cosmetic design that involves putting a LEGO scene on the back of your phone, although this can only be noticed or used when the phone is placed face down on a table. However, with some imagination and design work, it might be possible to 3D print functional modules as well, such as one that sticks a notepad to the back of your phone.

The Foam Dart Launcher comes completely unexpectedly and turns the CMF Phone 1 into a toy. It is essentially a mini one-shot Nerf gun that you can use to surprise friends or colleagues. Of course, it has no practical use, but it shows the wide range of possibilities offered by the simple yet ingenious modular design of the CMF Phone 1.