As many were expecting to see, Lenovo’s latest Moto devices have been unveiled during Lenovo’s Tech World event in San Francisco. Changing names from Moto X over to Moto Z (oddly enough, this is shortly after Sony switched from Z to X), the latest Moto device (or devices, I should say, as there are two variants) feature drastic changes both in design and functionality.
Both Moto Z and Moto Z Force feature 5.5-inch Quad HD AMOLED displays. They are extremely thin devices at just 5.2mm and 7mm thick, feature rounded edges, and now have a single physical button in the center of the front of the phone. The downside, however, is that the phones are so thin that they don't support a standard 3.5mm headphone jack - or any headphone jack, for that matter.
Spec-wise, the Moto Z is equal to other flagships out there. Both Moto Z variants are powered by a Snapdragon 820 chipset and feature 4GB of RAM. Internal storage comes in 32GB or 64GB, with room to grow via microSD (up to 2TB additional). Where they differ is that Moto Z features a 2,600 mAh battery and 13-megapixel rear-facing camera with OIS, while Moto Z Force has a larger 3,500 mAh battery, 21-megapixel rear-facing camera with OIS, and Shatter Shield technology for the screen.
But perhaps the most exciting announcement to come with the introduction of Moto Z is the addition of Moto Mods. Whether you’re looking for style or functionality, Moto Mods has you covered.
Style Shells are the removable backs that allow you to interchange designs with materials such as bamboo, plastic, ballistic nylon, wood, and leather, as well as some new additions this year. They are the same options given through Moto Maker in previous years, but the permanent aspect of what design you choose is no longer an issue.
Other mods are made to improve the functionality of Moto Z can support include a stylish battery pack (that also supports wireless charging), a camera lens, audio enhancement with JBL, and even a projector. The best part about Moto Mods is that you don’t have to turn your phone on or off, or even take the battery out to get them to work. You simply snap them on the back and you’re ready to go.
No price point was announced about the Moto Z or Moto Z Force yet. You can expect to see both Moto Z variants to launch this summer exclusively through U.S. carrier Verizon under the moniker Moto Z Droid and Moto Z Force Droid. Unlocked Moto Z devices will be available globally sometime in September.
More details to come as they surface.