How, where and when to get the Moto Z, Moto Z Force
The Moto Z and Moto Z Force are coming, and here's what you need to know about getting one in your hands.
Lenovo on Thursday announced two new Motorola smartphones, the Moto Z and Moto Z Force. The two devices breakaway from the Moto X design we've seen for the last few years, and add hot-swappable modules, Moto Mods.
When using Moto Mods, you can add a projector, external battery or a JBL speaker to your Moto Z without having to turn the device on or off, thanks to a magnetic connection on the back of the phone.
The promise of adding capabilities to a phone long after you've purchased one is welcome -- but more importantly, when will the Moto Z and Moto Z Force be available?
Well, it depends on where you live and your wireless carrier.
Verizon exclusive
The Moto Z Droid and Moto Z Force Droid will be available on Verizon wireless "this summer" according to Motorola.
It's important to note, the Moto Z Force, which has a better camera and bigger battery will only be available on Verizon. Hashtag sad face, indeed.
Unlocked version
An unlocked version of the Moto Z will be available through Moto.com and various retail channels (but it's unclear which, exactly) this fall. According to Motorola, the unlocked version will work on GSM networks such as AT&T or T-Mobile here in the US.
Global
Keeping to the theme of telling us as little as possible about launch plans, Motorola has only indicated that the Moto Z will be available worldwide in September.
JBL SoundBoost Moto Mod.
Mods
Moto Mods announced during Thursday's event will be made available at the same time as the Moto Z Droid and Moto Z Droid Force on Verizon Wireless this summer. Those Mods include the previously mentioned battery pack, JBL SoundsBoost and a Moto Insta-Share Projector capable of projecting the Moto Z's display onto a 70-inch screen.
Pricing for Moto Mods as well as either handset wasn't revealed during today's announcement.
As details start to emerge in the coming months leading up to the official launch, we'll update this post.