The Motorola Razr 50 Ultra isn’t just an iterative update. It’s a statement—a declaration that flip phones can be more than just novelty items. With a massive on-body display, thoughtful AI integration, and real improvements across the board, Motorola has created a compelling contender in the foldable space.
The on-body display: It’s no longer a gadget
The large 4-inch display on the chassis of the Razr 50 Ultra is one of my favorites when it comes to flip phones. Forget squinting at small notifications; this screen is big enough to comfortably browse the web, respond to messages, and even watch videos. Motorola has cleverly integrated widgets and apps, making the on-body display truly usable. Plus, it’s the first flip phone to use Google’s Gemini AI assistant on the body screen, turning voice interactions into a hands-free experience.
Project Evolution: Closing the Gap
Motorola continues to refine its hinge design, resulting in a nearly seamless design with minimal creases. The Razr 50 Ultra is sturdy and well-built, and IPX8 waterproof for added peace of mind. And while I love the vibrant green color option, the soft, vegan leather finish adds a touch of sophistication.
AI Integration: Beyond the Buzzwords
Apart from the now-ubiquitous “AI” branding, Motorola’s AI features offer practical benefits. The Gemini’s integration into the case’s display is a notable feature, with features like Style Sync and Magic Canvas, which let you create personalized wallpapers based on your outfit or text descriptions. While some of the features seem a little artificial, the overall AI implementation is more thoughtful than what we’ve seen on some competitors.
Camera: Good, but Not Great
The Razr 50 Ultra features improved 50MP sensors on the case’s display, which deliver sharper, more detailed images. However, colour accuracy and low-light performance still lag behind the competition, especially when compared to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6.
Performance: Is this a chip from the old block?
The choice of the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset, while efficient, raises concerns about durability, especially when compared to the newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in the Galaxy Z Flip6. For everyday tasks and occasional gaming, however, performance is more than adequate.
Software: Clean and customisable, but limited updates
Motorola’s Hello user interface, powered by Android 14, is clean and intuitive, offering a range of useful gestures and customisations. The downside is limited software support, with the promise of only three years of major OS updates and four years of security updates, a stark contrast to Samsung’s seven years of support.
Battery life: A flip phone that lasts
Despite the limitations of the flip phone format, the Razr 50 Ultra delivers impressive battery life. It easily lasts a full day of moderate to heavy usage, outperforming the Galaxy Z Flip6 in our battery tests. 45W fast charging sweetens the deal even more.
The Motorola Razr 50 Ultra is a major step forward in the flip phone category, offering a compelling combination of style, functionality, and performance. At Rs 94,999, its massive display, thoughtful AI integration, and impressive battery life make it a serious contender in the foldable market. While limited software support and some camera shortcomings are worth noting, the Razr 50 Ultra is a strong recommendation for anyone looking for a unique and powerful smartphone.