Motorola’s Razr Ultra (2025) aims to revive the iconic flip phone in a modern, high-end package. Priced at $1,300, this device isn’t just a throwback; it’s a fully-featured smartphone that blends nostalgia with cutting-edge technology. While it delivers on many fronts, the hefty cost raises the question of whether the experience justifies the expense.
A Refined Foldable Experience
Motorola has learned from past iterations. The original Razr foldable, released during the pandemic, suffered from high pricing and underpowered specs. Subsequent models improved, but the Razr Ultra now aims for near-perfection. The device boasts a Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, a titanium hinge, and a sleek design, addressing many of the compromises that plagued earlier versions. It feels like the flip phone Motorola promised in 2020 — finally delivered.
The Ultra is a significant upgrade from the 2023 Razr Plus, akin to an athlete who has trained to peak performance. Durability is a key focus; while all foldables remain susceptible to dust damage, the Razr Ultra demonstrates resilience. The build quality is striking, weighing in at 199 grams, comparable to the iPhone 16 Pro. The hot pink “pantone cabaret” finish and textured fabric back add a touch of flair without sacrificing grip.
The Power of the Cover Screen
The standout feature remains the external display. The 4-inch AMOLED cover screen with a 165Hz adaptive refresh rate transforms the flip phone experience. It’s not just for notifications; you can run full apps, play games, and even make contactless payments with Google Pay. The customization options are extensive, allowing you to tailor widgets and panels for quick access.
This level of functionality makes the Razr Ultra genuinely unique, offering a seamless blend of classic form and modern convenience. The inner 7-inch display is equally impressive, with a 2,992×1,224-pixel resolution and peak brightness of 4,500 nits. The crease, while still present, is minimized, making it less distracting during use.
AI Integration and Performance
Motorola has integrated AI into the Razr Ultra through its Moto AI platform, offering access to Perplexity, Gemini, Copilot, and Llama AI. The dedicated hardware button streamlines AI interactions, allowing users to quickly access various AI services. Features like Remember This (for photo/screen grab analysis) and Catch Me Up (for notifications) add potential value, though long-term utility remains to be seen.
The Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and 16GB of RAM deliver strong performance. The device handles demanding tasks like gaming and video editing smoothly. Battery life is solid, easily lasting a full day with moderate use. However, the phone can get warm during intensive activities. The 4,700mAh battery supports 68W wired and 30W wireless charging, but a fast charger is not included.
Camera Capabilities
The Razr Ultra features a triple 50-megapixel camera system (wide, ultrawide, selfie). While improvements have been made, the camera performance remains decent rather than exceptional. Photos are best in well-lit conditions, but low-light shots can suffer from motion blur and overprocessing. The inclusion of a ‘90s camcorder mode and Moto Actions (wrist-twist for quick camera access) adds novelty but doesn’t elevate image quality significantly.
The Cost of Luxury
Despite the upgrades, the $1,300 price tag remains a major hurdle. The Razr Ultra is $300 more expensive than the Razr Plus. While it includes 512GB of storage and an upgraded screen, the value proposition is questionable. The Razr Plus still exists as a viable alternative for budget-conscious buyers.
Who Should Buy It?
The Razr Ultra is an excellent choice for those upgrading from older Razr models or seeking the best foldable experience available in 2025. If you own a 2020 Razr 5G or earlier, this is a substantial upgrade. However, if you have a 2023 Razr Plus, the improvements may not justify the cost.
If you’re deciding between the Razr Ultra and the Galaxy Z Flip 6, Motorola’s device might be worth the extra $200 if affordability isn’t a concern. Otherwise, waiting for the Galaxy Z Flip 7 could be a wiser move. For budget-minded consumers, the $700 Motorola Razr or last year’s discounted Razr Plus ($800) provide better value.
Ultimately, the Motorola Razr Ultra is a premium flip phone that delivers on innovation and design. However, the high price tag makes it a luxury purchase rather than an essential upgrade for most users.
The Razr Ultra embodies the best of foldable technology, but its cost may exclude it from mainstream adoption. Whether the experience justifies the premium depends on individual priorities and budget.
