Each year there are a number of notable trends that develop. While this year much of the focus seems to be on virtual reality, another clear on trend topic is modularity. While the likes of true modular smartphones (à la Project Ara) are still some time away, LG has already brought to market a smartphone which makes use of modular principles, the LG G5. This is a smartphone which allows for the removal and inclusion of modular bases to the G5 and in doing so, changes the emphasis of the phone. Now, Motorola can be added to that slow-growing list of modular-focused manufacturers as they have now introduced their Moto Mods for the Moto Z range.
Today, during Lenovo Tech World, Motorola announced the launch of a couple of new devices including the Moto Z and the Moto Z Force. The main difference between the two being the Force’s emphasis on a better camera, longer battery life and more durable build. While these are the Moto flagship handsets for 2016, they are also ones which adopts a modular design. Different to the LG G5 though, the Moto Z utilizes modules by replacing the entirety of the back of the phone. Essentially, swapping the back, swaps the emphasis of the phone. These ‘Moto Mods’ also look to offer a much greater level of functionally. For instance, while the list of compatible Moto Mods is expected to grow in time (through both official offerings and some through third-party manufacturers), Motorola has confirmed the existence of a number of specific modules. One which is designed by JBL and looks to offer an increased sound performance, as well as ones from Incipio and OFFGRID, which as you would expect offer a greater level of protection and increased battery life. In addition to the Moto Mods, there will also be a number of ‘Style Mods’ which include offerings by the likes of Kate Spade New York. You can see a selection of some of the Moto and Style Mods in the gallery below.
Unfortunately, as of yet, Motorola has not provided any indication on what the likely pricing will be for Moto and Style Mods, although the company did confirm during this morning’s event that they will be available to buy at the same time as the Moto Z and Z Force.
