Motorola Launches AI-Enhanced Razr Flip Phones
Motorola has introduced new versions of its Razr flip phone, incorporating artificial intelligence features from various companies including Perplexity, Meta, Microsoft, and Google. The new lineup includes the Razr, Razr Plus, and Razr Ultra models, set to launch on May 15.
AI-Driven Features
The phones feature AI tools that can analyze what’s on the screen to provide suggestions and summarize notifications. For instance, while browsing Pinterest for birthday party ideas, the Next Move feature, powered by Perplexity’s technology, might suggest generating an image for a party invitation.
Multiple AI Partnerships
Unlike other major manufacturers like Apple and Samsung, Motorola is partnering with multiple AI providers. The Razr Ultra, the most expensive model, can activate its AI assistant by recognizing when a user is looking at it, without needing a button press or wake word. This feature works when the phone is partially folded and propped open.
Industry Context
The announcement comes as Google faces antitrust issues related to its search engine monopoly. The integration of multiple AI services on Motorola’s phones could indicate a shift away from Google’s dominance in the AI space.
Pricing and Availability
The new Razr phones are priced competitively with last year’s models. The Razr Ultra costs $1,300, the Razr Plus is $1,000, and the Razr is $700. Motorola’s parent company, Lenovo, has a flexible supply chain that helps mitigate the impact of tariffs on pricing.
Key Features of the New Razr Models:
- AI-powered suggestions and notification summaries
- Integration of Perplexity, Meta’s Llama AI, Microsoft’s Copilot, and Google’s Gemini assistant
- Advanced features like generating images or searching through Google Photos
- Competitive pricing for premium foldable display phones
Motorola’s move to incorporate multiple AI services reflects the evolving landscape of smartphone technology and the industry’s response to growing antitrust concerns.
