Do more with a shut Razr

Motorola’s new Razr is a highly sought after smartphone. Despite having less than stellar specifications and a hefty $1,500 price tag, it’s still the gadget to have at the moment. And this is due in part to the clever hinge mechanism that allows the phone’s screen to fold into itself, confidently, and without revealing much of a crease.

Besides this, it retains the cool factor associated with the original Razr phone. But, unlike its predecessor, it can accomplish far more – even when folded shut. It has a smaller screen on the front, just like the original phone. But, the new device’s display is a touchscreen one, that can be used for more than just glancing at the time.

View and respond to notifications
The new Razr’s 2.7-inch OLED display can be used to view notifications and respond to them. If you receive an urgent message that warrants a response ASAP, just tap on it. Mind, it lacks a keyboard, so you will have to choose from several pre-determined responses or use voice commands.

Pay as you go
Since the phone supports NFC, you can use the display to authorize mobile payments. There’s no need to mess around on the main display while in line at the grocery store.

Play Music
You can play, pause or skip tracks on the smaller display. If Moto Actions are enabled then the volume keys can also be used to change tracks even when the screen is turned off.

Steven Taylor Photography

Take pictures
The main camera can also be used as a selfie camera. While holding the phone, just twist your wrist twice. This gesture opens the Camera app and the entire 2.7-inch screen becomes the viewfinder. Photos can be snapped with a smile or with the volume keys. Holding your palm out and towards the phone, initiates the camera’s two-second countdown timer.

Google Assistant
Even with the phone closed, Google’s helpful AI assistant is still accessible. Just say “Ok Google” and ask a question or give it a command. Though this isn’t recommended for information rich searches, but it will be extremely helpful for the simpler stuff.

Photo Credit: Motorola (Motorola Blog)