Flip and Fold: Motorola’s Triple Threat Razr Lineup Changes the Game

In an unexpected move that’s sending ripples through the foldable smartphone market, Motorola has unveiled not two, but three distinct Razr models for 2025. This bold expansion of the iconic flip phone family introduces a new premium tier while redefining what consumers can expect from foldable technology across multiple price points.

The Triple Play: Meet the Razr Family

For the first time in the Razr’s modern history, Motorola has launched a three-model lineup: the standard Razr 2025, the mid-tier Razr Plus 2025, and the all-new flagship Razr Ultra 2025. This tiered approach significantly broadens Motorola’s market reach while allowing the company to experiment with premium materials and cutting-edge technology at the high end.

“Motorola has taken a simple, clearly defined lineup and turned it into an utterly confusing one,” observed an Android Authority commentator, highlighting both the opportunity and challenge presented by the expanded portfolio.

Model	Starting Price	Position	Key Differentiator
Razr 2025	$699	Entry-level	Affordability with modern features
Razr Plus 2025	$999	Mid-range	Balance of features and cost
Razr Ultra 2025	$1,299	Premium flagship	Largest display, top performance

Source: Motorola official pricing, Android Central

The three-tier approach mirrors strategies employed by companies like Apple and Samsung, allowing consumers to select a foldable experience that matches their budget and needs. All models will be available for pre-order beginning May 7, with retail availability starting May 15 through Best Buy, Amazon, and Motorola’s online store.

Design Evolution: Luxurious Materials Meet Engineering Precision

Perhaps the most striking aspect of Motorola’s 2025 lineup is the bold materials experiment happening at the high end. The Razr Ultra introduces luxury materials never before seen in the smartphone industry, including real wood and Alcantara fabric finishes.

“Undeniable style meets class-leading engineering with the next generation of razr, boasting a more durable construction and debuting the boldest colors and most luxurious finishes yet, completely unlike any other foldable on the market,” Motorola stated in its announcement.

The Razr Ultra comes in four distinct finishes:

• Luxurious soft-touch Alcantara (a first in smartphones)
• Real wood (another smartphone industry first)
• Luxe satin-inspired finish
• Durable leather-inspired finish

The design innovation extends beyond aesthetics to fundamental engineering improvements across all three models:

Feature	Improvement	Benefit
Titanium-reinforced hinge	4x stronger than surgical-grade steel	35% more fold durability
Resilient Ultra Thin Glass	30% smoother display	Reduced screen creasing
Integrated brush filters	Minimal gaps in design	Better dust protection
IP48 rating	Water/dust resistance	Withstands submersion in 1.5m of fresh water

Source: Motorola product specifications, Ubergizmo

“From left to right: Razr Ultra Mountain Trail, Razr Ultra Cabaret, Razr Plus Mocha Mousse, Razr Lightest Sky, Razr Gibraltar Sea,” described Ubergizmo, highlighting the distinctive Pantone color options available across the lineup. The partnerships with Pantone and Alcantara demonstrate Motorola’s commitment to fashion-forward design that distinguishes the Razr family from competing foldables.

Display Dominance: Bigger and Brighter Screens

The Razr Ultra 2025 makes a bold statement with the largest display ever on a flip-style foldable, featuring a 7-inch pOLED main screen with what Motorola calls “Super HD” resolution and an astonishing 4,500 nits of peak brightness—significantly outshining competitors.

Model	Main Display	Cover Display	Peak Brightness
Razr 2025	6.9″ pOLED, 120Hz	3.6″ AMOLED	1,700 nits
Razr Plus 2025	6.9″ pOLED, 165Hz	4.0″ pOLED	2,000 nits
Razr Ultra 2025	7.0″ pOLED, 165Hz	4.0″ pOLED	4,500 nits (main), 3,000 nits (cover)

Source: Motorola specifications, Android Headlines

“The Motorola Razr Ultra 2025, now officially has the largest display on a flip phone, and larger than almost every slab phone with a 7-inch main display,” noted Android Headlines, emphasizing the significance of this achievement in the broader smartphone market.

The cover displays also represent a significant competitive advantage, particularly for the Plus and Ultra models. At 4 inches, these external screens enable users to accomplish most common tasks without opening the phone, including:

• Managing notifications and responding to messages
• Taking selfies with the main camera using Dual Preview
• Controlling music and media playback
• Using widgets and basic apps
• Interacting with Google Gemini and Moto AI

Performance Leap: First Flip Phone with Snapdragon 8 Elite

The Razr Ultra 2025 makes history as the first flip phone to feature Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, positioning it to compete directly with slab-style flagships in raw performance. This represents a significant departure from Motorola’s previous strategy of using slightly less powerful chips in its foldable devices.

Model	Processor	RAM	Storage	Battery
Razr 2025	MediaTek Dimensity 7400X	8GB	256GB	4,500mAh
Razr Plus 2025	Snapdragon 8s Gen 3	12GB	256GB	4,000mAh
Razr Ultra 2025	Snapdragon 8 Elite	16GB	512GB/1TB	4,700mAh

Source: Motorola specifications, Phone Arena

“With the industry-leading 3nm Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform, motorola razr ultra is the most powerful flip phone, delivering superior combined CPU, GPU, and NPU performance thanks to a dedicated AI processing engine,” according to Motorola.

The performance advantage extends to memory configurations as well, with the Ultra model featuring 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM running at 9600Mbps—a specification typically reserved for high-end gaming phones and flagship devices.

Battery capacity has been significantly improved across the lineup compared to previous generations:

• The Razr 2025 gets a substantial 4,500mAh battery
• The Razr Ultra 2025 features a class-leading 4,700mAh capacity
• Only the Razr Plus 2025 maintains the same 4,000mAh capacity as its predecessor

Charging capabilities have also been enhanced, with the Ultra model supporting 68W TurboPower wired charging (providing “power for the day in 8 minutes”) and 30W wireless charging—both substantial improvements over previous generations and competitive devices.

Camera Evolution: Triple 50MP Setup on the Ultra

The Razr Ultra 2025 introduces another first for flip phones: a triple 50MP camera system. While technically still a dual rear camera setup (main + ultrawide), the Ultra adds a 50MP selfie camera, creating a trifecta of high-resolution sensors that’s unprecedented in the flip phone category.

Model	Main Camera	Secondary Camera	Selfie Camera
Razr 2025	50MP, f/1.7	13MP ultrawide	32MP
Razr Plus 2025	50MP, f/1.7	50MP telephoto (2x)	32MP
Razr Ultra 2025	50MP, f/1.7	50MP ultrawide	50MP

Source: Motorola specifications, Android Central

“The Razr Ultra has clearly captured more detail in the shadow of the building, making for a more eye-pleasing image,” noted Phone Arena in comparing the Razr Ultra’s photo quality to competition from Samsung.

Camera software has also seen significant improvements, with new Moto AI-powered features including:

• Signature Style: AI-powered photo enhancement that learns your preferences
• Group Shot: Blends best moments so no one gets caught mid-blink
• Action Shot: Automatically adjusts shutter speed for sharp motion photos
• Magic Editor: Advanced editing capabilities for object movement and background changes

The AI Advantage: Moto AI Takes Center Stage

Artificial intelligence forms a core part of Motorola’s 2025 strategy, with Moto AI featured prominently across all three Razr models. The Ultra model goes further by including a dedicated AI Key, a hardware button that provides quick access to Motorola’s AI features.

“Moto AI plays a transformative role in Motorola’s 2025 Razr experience. It elevates the foldable smartphone from a communication device to a proactive digital companion,” explained Ubergizmo.

Key Moto AI features include:

• Catch Me Up: Summarizes notifications and messages you might have missed
• Look & Talk: Unlock with a glance and start conversing with Moto AI hands-free
• Pay Attention: Analyzes screen content and offers contextual assistance
• Smart Connect: Shares content across devices with simple voice commands
• Playlist Studio: Generates context-aware music playlists based on activities
• Magic Canvas: Creates custom wallpapers from text prompts

All three Razr models also include integration with Google Gemini, offering three months of the Google One AI Premium plan with Gemini Advanced for enhanced AI capabilities.

The AI features take advantage of the Razr’s unique form factor, allowing hands-free use in tent or stand mode, particularly on the Ultra model with its dedicated AI Key and enhanced processor.

Software Support: The Remaining Achilles’ Heel?

Despite the hardware advancements, one area where critics note Motorola still lags behind competitors is in long-term software support. All three Razr 2025 models come with Android 15 out of the box and include a commitment to three years of OS updates and four years of bi-monthly security updates.

“Software support on Motorola’s latest foldable(s) is decent, but not the best,” noted Android Central, highlighting that this support period falls short of Samsung’s and Google’s longer commitments for their flagship devices.

The software update roadmap for the Razr 2025 series is:

• Launch with Android 15 (2025)
• Update to Android 16 (2026)
• Update to Android 17 (2027)
• Update to Android 18 (2028)
• Security updates through 2029

While this represents an improvement over Motorola’s historical software support, it may still be a consideration for consumers comparing the Razr Ultra’s $1,299 price tag with competitors offering longer support windows.

Competitive Landscape: Taking on Samsung’s Dominance

With its expanded lineup and particularly the premium Razr Ultra, Motorola is making its most serious challenge yet to Samsung’s dominance in the foldable market. The Razr Ultra directly targets the Galaxy Z Flip 6 but offers several advantages, including a larger display, bigger battery, and unique material options.

“Motorola’s Razr Ultra (2025) sets a new gold standard for flip phones, outclassing the Galaxy Z Flip 6 with superior design, performance, and battery life,” declared Phone Arena in a head-to-head comparison.

Feature	Razr Ultra 2025	Galaxy Z Flip 6
Main Display	7.0″, 4,500 nits	6.7″, 2,600 nits
Cover Display	4.0″, 3,000 nits	3.4″, 1,600 nits
Battery	4,700mAh	4,000mAh
Charging	68W wired, 30W wireless	25W wired, 15W wireless
Processor	Snapdragon 8 Elite	Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
Price	$1,299	$1,099

Source: Comparative specifications, Phone Arena

While Samsung maintains advantages in brand recognition, established ecosystem, and software support longevity, Motorola has created compelling differentiators with the Razr Ultra’s premium materials, larger displays, and superior battery specifications. The question remains whether consumers will be willing to pay the $200 premium over the Galaxy Z Flip 6 for these advantages.

At the lower end, the standard Razr 2025 at $699 also presents an attractive entry point for consumers curious about foldables but unwilling to spend $1,000+ on their first flip phone.

Expert Perspectives: Is This Motorola’s Breakout Moment?

Industry analysts and technology reviewers have offered mixed perspectives on Motorola’s ambitious three-device strategy. While many praise the hardware innovations, particularly in the Ultra model, some question the pricing strategy and overall coherence of the lineup.

“I should be thrilled about Motorola’s 2025 Razr phones, but I’m not,” wrote one Android Authority editor, explaining: “And the Razr Ultra, while an exciting phone by almost every metric, doesn’t feel like it does enough to justify what’s effectively a $300 price increase over the Razr Plus (2024).”

Others see the expansion as a sign of Motorola’s growing confidence and commitment to the foldable category. “Motorola, a brand once left for dead after Google gutted the company’s talent and best ideas, looks to be back stronger than ever with the launch of the 2025 Razr models,” observed Android Central.

The expanded lineup certainly demonstrates Motorola’s belief in the growth potential of the foldable market and its determination to capture a larger share. By offering options at multiple price points with clearly differentiated features, Motorola has positioned itself to appeal to a broader range of consumers than ever before.

Consumer Guide: Which Razr is Right for You?

With three distinct models now available, prospective buyers face a more complicated decision when choosing a Motorola foldable. Here’s a simplified guide to help determine which 2025 Razr might be the best fit based on different priorities:

Razr 2025 ($699) – Best for:

• Budget-conscious buyers wanting to try a foldable
• Users who primarily use the main screen, not the cover display
• Those who prioritize battery life over processing power
• People who prefer a lighter, slightly thinner device

Razr Plus 2025 ($999) – Best for:

• Photography enthusiasts who value telephoto capabilities
• Users who want a balance of performance and value
• Those who appreciate the 4″ cover display but don’t need the largest main screen
• People upgrading from previous Razr Plus models

Razr Ultra 2025 ($1,299) – Best for:

• Early adopters wanting the absolute latest technology
• Power users who need maximum performance
• Those who value premium materials and design
• Users who want the largest possible foldable displays
• People who prioritize battery life and fast charging

“As someone who loves the idea of the Motorola Razr Plus 2023 but not the execution, I feel compelled to upgrade to a Razr 2025 series phone,” wrote an Android Central reviewer, highlighting the significant improvements made across the lineup compared to previous generations.

Special Features: Unique Razr Capabilities

Beyond the core specifications, Motorola has implemented several unique features that take advantage of the foldable form factor:

• Retro Camcorder Mode: Automatically starts recording when the phone is angled at 90 degrees, mimicking old-school camcorders
• Dual Preview: Allows subjects to see themselves on the cover display while you take their photo with the main camera
• Photo Booth: Takes four sequential photos with different poses, similar to traditional photo booths
• Flex View: Various apps adapt to the partially folded position for hands-free use
• Smart Connect: Mirrors screens, streams media, or transfers tasks across compatible devices
• AI Key (Ultra only): Dedicated hardware button for AI functions

These software innovations help differentiate the Razr family from both traditional smartphones and competing foldables, offering experiences that are only possible with the unique form factor and dual-screen design.

Ecosystem Expansion: Beyond Smartphones

Alongside the Razr lineup, Motorola has introduced complementary accessories designed to create a more comprehensive ecosystem:

• Moto Buds Loop: The company’s first open-ear earbuds featuring Sound by Bose
• Moto Watch Fit: A smartwatch designed to seamlessly integrate with Razr phones
• Crossbody Case: Adjustable carrying case for the Razr Plus and Ultra models

This ecosystem approach represents a new direction for Motorola, potentially creating stronger brand loyalty and encouraging users to invest more deeply in the company’s product range.

Conclusion: A Bold New Chapter in the Razr Story

Motorola’s triple-model strategy for the 2025 Razr lineup represents its most ambitious effort yet to reshape the foldable market. By spanning price points from $699 to $1,299 and introducing genuine innovations like real wood finishes, the largest foldable displays, and class-leading battery specifications, the company has crafted a compelling alternative to Samsung’s established flip phones.

The success of this strategy will ultimately depend on whether consumers perceive the premium materials and specifications of the Razr Ultra as justifying its higher price point, and whether the base model’s compromises still deliver a satisfying foldable experience at a more accessible price.

What’s clear is that the foldable market is maturing rapidly, with manufacturers moving beyond the novelty of the form factor to focus on delivering genuinely useful innovations and addressing previous limitations. Motorola’s 2025 Razr lineup demonstrates the company’s commitment to remaining at the forefront of this evolution, leveraging its iconic brand to push the boundaries of what’s possible in mobile technology.

As pre-orders open on May 7 and the devices hit retail shelves on May 15, the market will soon deliver its verdict on whether Motorola’s bold triple play will flip the script on the foldable market or fold under competitive pressure.