The Moto Z2, a flagship smartphone from Motorola, was a highly anticipated device in 2017. As the successor to the Moto Z, it brought several improvements and exciting features to the table. In this article, we will delve into the details of the Moto Z2’s release, its specifications, and what made it a notable device in the smartphone market.
A Brief History of the Moto Z Series
Before we dive into the specifics of the Moto Z2, it’s essential to understand the context of the Moto Z series. The first Moto Z was released in 2016, and it was a game-changer in the smartphone industry. It introduced the concept of modular design, allowing users to attach various accessories, known as Moto Mods, to the device. This innovative approach set the stage for the Moto Z2, which built upon the success of its predecessor.
The Release of the Moto Z2
The Moto Z2 was officially announced on June 27, 2017, at an event in New York City. The device was released in the United States on July 6, 2017, exclusively on Verizon Wireless. Later, it became available on other carriers, including AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint.
Key Features and Specifications
The Moto Z2 boasted several impressive features, including:
- A 5.5-inch Quad HD display with a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels
- A Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor, paired with 4GB of RAM
- A 12-megapixel rear camera with a f/1.7 aperture and a 5-megapixel front camera
- A 3000mAh battery with fast charging capabilities
- Android 7.1.1 Nougat out of the box, upgradable to Android 8.0 Oreo
- IP68 water and dust resistance
- Fingerprint sensor and facial recognition
Moto Mods: Expanding the Device’s Capabilities
One of the standout features of the Moto Z2 was its compatibility with Moto Mods. These modular accessories allowed users to enhance their device’s functionality, adding features such as:
- A Hasselblad True Zoom camera mod for improved photography
- A JBL SoundBoost speaker mod for enhanced audio
- A Moto 360 Camera mod for 360-degree video capture
- A Power Pack mod for extended battery life
These mods were designed to be easily attachable and detachable, making it simple for users to customize their device to suit their needs.
Design and Build Quality
The Moto Z2’s design was a significant departure from its predecessor. The device featured a sleek, metal unibody construction, with a rounded edge design that fit comfortably in the hand. The phone’s dimensions were 155.8 x 76 x 5.99 mm, making it slightly thinner than the original Moto Z.
Color Options and Variants
The Moto Z2 was available in several color options, including:
- Lunar Gray
- Fine Gold
- Super Black
Additionally, there were two variants of the device: the Moto Z2 and the Moto Z2 Force. The Moto Z2 Force featured a shatter-resistant display and a more powerful battery.
Performance and Battery Life
The Moto Z2’s performance was impressive, thanks to its powerful processor and ample RAM. The device handled demanding tasks with ease, and its battery life was respectable, lasting up to a day and a half with moderate use.
Benchmark Scores
The Moto Z2’s benchmark scores were:
- Geekbench 4: 1834 (single-core), 6241 (multi-core)
- AnTuTu: 163,756
- 3DMark Sling Shot Extreme: 3,444
These scores indicated that the Moto Z2 was a capable device, capable of handling demanding tasks and graphics-intensive games.
Camera Performance
The Moto Z2’s camera was a significant improvement over its predecessor. The device featured a 12-megapixel rear camera with a f/1.7 aperture, which performed well in various lighting conditions. The camera app was also intuitive, with features such as manual mode and slow-motion video capture.
Camera Samples
The Moto Z2’s camera produced impressive results, with good color accuracy and detail. Here are some camera samples:
| Scene | Image Quality |
| — | — |
| Daylight | Excellent color accuracy and detail |
| Low light | Good noise reduction and detail |
| Portrait | Good bokeh effect and subject separation |
Verdict
The Moto Z2 was a solid device that built upon the success of its predecessor. Its modular design, impressive performance, and good camera made it a compelling option for those looking for a flagship smartphone. Although it had some drawbacks, such as a smaller battery and no headphone jack, the Moto Z2 was a notable device in the smartphone market.
Legacy
The Moto Z2’s legacy can be seen in its successors, the Moto Z3 and Moto Z4. These devices continued to refine the modular design concept, adding new features and improving performance. The Moto Z2 played an essential role in establishing Motorola as a major player in the smartphone market, and its impact can still be felt today.
In conclusion, the Moto Z2 was a significant device that showcased Motorola’s innovative approach to smartphone design. Its release in 2017 marked an important milestone in the company’s history, and its features and performance continue to influence the smartphone market.
What are the key features of the Moto Z2?
The Moto Z2 boasts a 5.5-inch Quad HD display, providing users with a vibrant and immersive viewing experience. The device is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor, coupled with 4GB of RAM, ensuring seamless performance and efficient multitasking. Additionally, the Moto Z2 features a 12-megapixel rear camera with dual autofocus pixels, allowing for faster and more accurate focusing.
Other notable features of the Moto Z2 include a 5-megapixel front camera, a 3,000mAh battery, and IP68 water and dust resistance. The device also supports Moto Mods, which are interchangeable modules that can be attached to the phone to enhance its functionality. These mods include a battery pack, a speaker, and a camera with optical zoom, among others.
What is the release date of the Moto Z2?
The Moto Z2 was officially announced on June 1, 2017, and was released in the United States on July 18, 2017. The device was initially available exclusively on Verizon, but it later became available on other carriers, including AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint.
As for international availability, the Moto Z2 was released in various countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, in the following months. The device was available in several color options, including Lunar Gray, Fine Gold, and Super Black.
What are Moto Mods, and how do they work?
Moto Mods are interchangeable modules that can be attached to the Moto Z2 to enhance its functionality. These mods are designed to be easily attached and detached from the phone, allowing users to customize their device to suit their needs. Some examples of Moto Mods include a battery pack, a speaker, and a camera with optical zoom.
To use a Moto Mod, simply attach it to the back of the Moto Z2, and the device will automatically recognize and configure the mod. The mods are designed to be seamless and intuitive, allowing users to easily switch between different mods as needed. Moto Mods are also designed to be compatible with future Moto Z devices, making them a valuable investment for users.
How does the Moto Z2’s camera compare to other flagship devices?
The Moto Z2’s camera is a significant improvement over its predecessor, with a 12-megapixel rear camera featuring dual autofocus pixels. This allows for faster and more accurate focusing, resulting in sharper and more detailed photos. The camera also features a f/1.7 aperture, which allows for better low-light performance.
Compared to other flagship devices, the Moto Z2’s camera holds its own, but may not be the best in its class. However, the device’s camera is still capable of taking high-quality photos and videos, and the addition of Moto Mods, such as the Hasselblad True Zoom mod, can further enhance its camera capabilities.
Is the Moto Z2 water-resistant?
Yes, the Moto Z2 is water-resistant, with a rating of IP68. This means that the device can withstand being submerged in water up to 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes. However, it’s worth noting that the device is not fully waterproof, and users should still exercise caution when exposing it to water.
The Moto Z2’s water resistance is due in part to its nano-coating, which helps to repel water and prevent damage to the device’s internal components. Additionally, the device’s design features a sealed battery compartment and other water-resistant components, which help to protect it from water ingress.
Can I use the Moto Z2 with any carrier?
The Moto Z2 is a Verizon-exclusive device in the United States, but it can be used with other carriers, including AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint. However, users may need to purchase an unlocked version of the device or check with their carrier to ensure compatibility.
Internationally, the Moto Z2 is available on various carriers, including those in the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. Users should check with their local carrier to confirm availability and compatibility.
What are the storage options for the Moto Z2?
The Moto Z2 is available in two storage options: 32GB and 64GB. However, users can expand their storage capacity using a microSD card, which supports up to 2TB of additional storage.
It’s worth noting that the Moto Z2 does not have a headphone jack, so users will need to use a USB-C adapter or wireless headphones to listen to music or make calls. Additionally, the device’s storage capacity can be managed using the Moto Z2’s built-in storage management tools, which allow users to easily free up space and optimize their device’s performance.