When the Moto Z was launched, it also did not include a headphone jack. Initially, this probably set people into thinking that it is merely following Apple's lead. But it is not the case and this is best demonstrated in the company's introduction of the Moto Mods.
Moto Mods falls within the modular phone concept previously seen in LG's latest G5. It entails the addition of peripherals in order to enhance the smartphone's functionality or customize the device according to the owner's requirements. However, the implementation of the modules has been made significantly easier. In Moto Z — through Moto Mods — they can be snapped directly on the back of the device, allowing quick swapping of modules.
To encourage Moto Mods adoption, Lenovo has also released the Moto Mods Development Kit (MDK) so that third-party developers could begin building their own modules. The kit is reportedly the same tool that Motorola developers used to build the official mods available today, which include mods that add a dual speaker, projector, and secondary battery pack. It was first introduced in the United States and is currently making its way to developers in China, Europe and South America.
"With Moto Z and Moto Mods, we've opened up a new world of possibilities when it comes to what a smartphone is truly capable of doing," Motorola said in a statement. "Moto Mods today allow you to turn your phone into a camera, movie projector or speaker, or snap on an extra battery pack when your juice gets low."
An MDK includes a Reference Moto Mod, which features a microprocessor, Moto high-speed bridge, as well as interfaces that can get not only developers but also tech-savvy users started. The idea is to keep developers from building modules from the ground up. The kit can already let developers hit the ground running with its so-called Personality Cards, which provides the bases for modules according to their functions.
The Moto Z line, which includes the Moto Z, Moto Z Droid, Moto Z Force, Moto Z DROID and Moto Z Play, has been introduced in a series of events beginning June. It is the successor to the Moto X line, which has become popular due to its sleek design and affordability. To further reinforce the previous version's appeal, the Moto Z has been improved to make it more premium and challenge other flagship devices. It is currently the thinnest Motorola phone ever and sports hardware specs that matches the Samsung Galaxy S7.
