Tuesday, July 19, 2016

Hands-on Moto Z review: the transformer


Lenovo Moto Z special features


Moto Mods


The Moto Z employs a modular accessory design that we’ve seen with the LG G5. With ‘Moto Mods’, you’ve got a choice of several different accessories that can be connected to the back of the device, allowing the Moto Z to be transformed into a multimedia projector, or a powerful portable speaker.


A grid of magnets keeps the Moto Mods connected. You can find them on the lower side of the rear panel. You’ll barely notice they’re there when you’re handling the device, except if you intentionally slide your fingers over them.

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The Moto Z's magnetic grid. / © AndroidPIT

When a Moto Mod is connected to the device, you’ll feel a vibration that confirms pairing. The accessories that were available at Motorola's headquarters were:

  • JBL SoundBoost (speaker)
  • Moto Insta-Share Projector (multimedia projector)
  • Incipio Power Pack (extra battery of 2,220 mAh capacity)
androidpit motoz jbl
The JBL SoundBoost Moto Mod. / © AndroidPIT

The JBL Moto Mod adds more sound volume to the device and does an exceptional job at it. The audio output is comparable to other Bluetooth speakers of good quality currently on the market. The sound is good, clear and balanced.


There are also Moto Mods that will be available via Moto Maker when the device is released. These covers, which also connect magnetically, are made with leather, wood and ‘ballistic nylon’.

androidpit moto z projetor
Moto Insta-Share Projector. / © AndroidPIT

The Moto Insta-Share Projector turns the Moto Z into a projector, able to adapt to surfaces such as walls, ceilings and floors. The accessory, as well as the JBL speaker, comes with a stand that allows it to be positioned on any surface.


It projects contents from the device's screen the way a Chromecast does. However, the Moto Insta-Share Projector has a resolution of only 480 pixels. The projected image is good, and seemingly of an HD standard during my brief test.


The Moto Z also comes with a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer.

androidpit moto z usb c
USB Type-C connector. / © AndroidPIT

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