14 DAY TRIAL // Even though Google acquired Motorola a long time ago, the search giant promised that it would let the handset maker operate separately. In order to show the world that it has kept its promise, Google has just announced the immediate availability of the Motorola Moto G Google Play Edition smartphone.
The device does not come with anything new in terms of hardware configuration and the software changes may be very subtle in comparison with the standard version.
Motorola prides itself on including stock Android on the Moto G, so there shouldn't be too many changes concerning this Google Play Edition's software.
It is also worth mentioning that the Moto G Google Play Edition is now available for purchase via Google Play store for only $179 (€130) off contract.
Unfortunately, for the time being, it's only available in the United States, but hopefully, Motorola and Google will bring the cheapest smartphone powered by Android 4.4 KitKat platform in other regions as well.
Keep in mind that this is the 8GB version and those who think they will be able to further expand storage via microSD memory card will be disappointed to know that the Moto G lacks one.
The 16GB model is available as well for those who want more storage, but customers will have to pay $199 (€145) upfront in order to grab this one.
However, once you purchase the Motorola Moto G, you will have access to around 50GB of free cloud storage via Google Drive. That should fix it a little bit.
Hardware-wise, the smartphone packs the same 1.2 GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 processor, complemented by an Adreno 305 graphics processing unit and 1GB of RAM.
Another strong point of the budget-friendly handset is the vibrant 4.5-inch IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen display that supports HD (720p) resolution and features Corning Gorilla Glass 3 coating.
On the back, the Moto G features a 5-megapixel photo snapper with autofocus, LED flash and HD (720p) video recording, while in the front, there's a secondary 1.3-megapixel camera for video calls.
Other highlights of the phone include HSDPA (21Mbps) and HSUPA (5.76Mbps), Bluetooth, GPS with A-GPS and GLONASS and 2070 non-removable battery.