Foldables were yesterday, so get ready for a rolled-up future.
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- Motorola Rizr Concept: peak into the future after foldable
MWC 2023 kicks off in earnest today (Monday, February 27, 2023), but as part of yesterday’s pre-event announcements, Motorola unveiled a concept device now called the “Rizr.” The main attraction of mobile phones is the rolling panel, which expands to give access to more display space and shrinks down into a compact device when needed.
Our team was on site in Barcelona and had the opportunity to experience this new technology. increase.
Hands-on with Moto Rizr
At first glance, the Moto Rizr concept is a chunky 5-inch screen device with a 15:9 aspect ratio and using a P-OLED panel. However, double-tapping the power button on the right side will unfold the device to reveal a larger 6.5-inch screen with a 22:9 aspect ratio. The former is more compact than the smaller mainstream phones we’ve seen in recent years (the iPhone 13 mini and the folded Galaxy Z Flip 4), but the latter matches the range of sizes found in flagship devices.
Android UI morphs appear when switching sizes. It compresses and expands for smaller displays to show more apps on your screen. A cool set of custom wallpapers also reflect all of this rolling action that the motor performs.
If you double-tap when unfolding, the phone will return to its compact state, but what about the rolled-out screen? can do. I found it used as a viewfinder on the rear camera. Motorola planned to implement an always-on display for this visible part as well. These are two very useful features.
Additionally, the 5-inch roll screen drops slightly in compact mode to expose the earbuds and front camera. Motorola says this transition happens automatically based on whether the user is on the phone or using the front camera. Other similar smart features are also built into the software, allowing the device to automatically expand when you start using apps like Gmail to benefit from the larger display.
Motorola Rizr Concept: peak into the future after foldable
Foldable smartphones are on the cusp of becoming mainstream, and the Rolling Phone changes that status quo. Yes, big foldable phones still cost more, but smaller options like the Galaxy Z Flip 4 and the recently launched Oppo Find N2 Flip are easy devices to choose from that we’re not hesitant to recommend. And in our opinion, the Motorola Rizr — or whatever the name of the final retail version — is a welcome addition to the race for compact devices that do more.
Devices need to prove their durability and Motorola needs to improve their software to provide a meaningful experience for the end consumer. Still, I’m looking forward to seeing it happen!
