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Android KitKat in a compact, budget package (pictures)

The new Motorola Moto G Google Play Edition starts at $179 and offers the taste of clean, pure Android 4.4 KitKat.

Brian Bennett
Brian Bennett is a former senior writer for the home and outdoor section at CNET.
Brian Bennett
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1 of 10 Sarah Tew/CNET

Tiny yet tasty Android KitKat

Despite its small stature and low price the Moto G Google Play Edition runs Android 4.4 KitKat from the get-go.
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2 of 10 Sarah Tew/CNET

Sleek but not thin

The Moto G Google Play Edition may not be terribly thin but is remarkably compact. On the left side are controls for volume and power.
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3 of 10 Sarah Tew/CNET

Micro USB on the bottom

On the bottom edge of the Moto G Google Play Edition is a Micro-USB port for charging and connecting to PCs.
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4 of 10 Sarah Tew/CNET

The usual spot for headphones

The top edge of the Moto G is where you'll find its 3.5mm headphone jack.
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5 of 10 Sarah Tew/CNET

Not quite a Nexus

The Moto G Google Play Edition may get special treatment, such as fresh Android updates, but it's no true Nexus device.
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6 of 10 Sarah Tew/CNET

The back is basic black

The Moto G's back is made from basic plastic and sports a conservative black hue.
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7 of 10 Sarah Tew/CNET

KitKat tucked inside

On board the Moto G Google Play Edition is fresh Android 4.4 KitKat.
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8 of 10 Sarah Tew/CNET

The stock camera app

The Moto G Google Play Edition's camera app is the tool taken straight from stock Android.
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9 of 10 Sarah Tew/CNET

Great in the hand

One of the Moto G's best attributes is its well-crafted, compact chassis that is comfortable to hold.
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10 of 10 Sarah Tew/CNET

Love that dimple

Like the Moto X, the Moto G has a cute little dimple on its back perfect for resting your index finger.

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