Motorola has clearly learned some valuable lessons from reading reviews of Samsung’s Z Flip series. The new Moto Razr+, a foldable phone that opens up to reveal a standard 6.9-inch handset, addresses one of the most common complaints about the Galaxy Z Flip 4—the small size of its Cover Display. The Razr+, on the other hand, offers a spacious 3.6-inch screen when folded, providing a more comfortable user experience.
The design of the Moto Razr+ distinguishes it from its predecessors. Unlike the iconic original Razr, the new model does not have a chin at the bottom. While this change may not be significant to some, it does sacrifice some nostalgia points.
When folded, the Razr+ features a seamless, squat square shape with a matte finish that gives it a premium feel and helps resist smudges. The Viva Magenta model even comes with a vegan leather back, adding to its overall sophistication. The phone is lightweight, weighing only 188.5 grams (6.6 ounces), making it lighter than popular models like the iPhone 14 Plus and Galaxy S23 Plus.
Both Motorola and Samsung’s devices are water-resistant, with the Razr+ meeting IP52 standards and the Flip 4 reaching IPX8.
One standout feature of the Moto Razr+ is its external display. Compared to the Z Flip 4, the Razr+’s larger pOLED panel offers a more comprehensive Android experience. Users can easily navigate through their settings, open apps, and switch between them using intuitive swipe gestures. The home screen of the Razr+ is designed to display useful information like the clock, date, weather, and six shortcut buttons that users can customize according to their preferences. The widgets are similar to Samsung’s offerings, including an app launcher, dialer, calendar, games, media controls, steps tracker, and news headlines.
The biggest advantage of the Razr+’s external display is its compatibility with any Android app. Users can enable continuity mode, allowing them to continue using any app on the external display even after closing the phone. This feature is incredibly convenient and practical for multitasking and accessing frequently used apps.
The larger external screen also enhances the Razr+’s camera capabilities. Users can use the external display as a viewfinder to preview shots with the rear cameras and show subjects what they look like. Unlike the Z Flip 4, which only shows a portion of the scene, the Razr+ provides a full view, eliminating guesswork. The phone allows for various gestures, such as holding up your palm to trigger a countdown till the photo is taken, enabling users to take hands-free photos.
The Razr+ features a 32 MP sensor inside, with a 12 MP main camera and a 13 MP wide-angle system. The phone delivers impressive camera performance, allowing users to take high-quality photos and videos.
In terms of pricing, the Moto Razr+ goes on sale for $999. While it may not offer the same camera capabilities and long-term durability as flagship phones, it provides a unique and nostalgic experience for users who appreciate its foldable design and functional external display.
In conclusion, the Moto Razr+ addresses some of the common complaints about foldable phones by offering a spacious external display and seamless functionality. With its sleek design and impressive camera capabilities, it appeals to both old souls and early adopters. While it may not match the performance of flagship phones, it provides a unique user experience at a more affordable price point.