Mobile Technology

Moto Z Mod finalists turn phone into a sterilizer or walkie-talkie

Moto Z Mod finalists turn phone into a sterilizer or walkie-talkie
Finalists in Motorola's Transform the Smartphone Challenge propose mods that turn the Moto Z into a sterilizer, a notification-driven light show, a multi-functional measuring instrument and more
Finalists in Motorola's Transform the Smartphone Challenge propose mods that turn the Moto Z into a sterilizer, a notification-driven light show, a multi-functional measuring instrument and more
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One of the contest's more niche entries – the Euromod, a tool for the Eurorack modular synthesizer
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One of the contest's more niche entries – the Euromod, a tool for the Eurorack modular synthesizer
The Edge mod brings a notification-driven LED light show to edges of the Moto Z
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The Edge mod brings a notification-driven LED light show to edges of the Moto Z
Finalists in Motorola's Transform the Smartphone Challenge propose mods that turn the Moto Z into a sterilizer, a notification-driven light show, a multi-functional measuring instrument and more
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Finalists in Motorola's Transform the Smartphone Challenge propose mods that turn the Moto Z into a sterilizer, a notification-driven light show, a multi-functional measuring instrument and more
View gallery - 3 images

The Moto Z, Moto Z Force and Moto Z Play are smartphones with an innovative modular approach. Thanks to Motorola's "Transform the Smartphone" contest, they're poised to receive some interesting new expansion options. 11 finalists have been announced, proposing everything from a germ-killing sterilizer to a solar-powered battery.

The finalists' Indiegogo campaigns can be viewed from the MotoMods collection page. Early crowdfunding leaders include the Edge mod, a case ringed with LED lighting for customizable RGB effects that enhance the device's notifications, as well as the "The Ultimate Moto Z Mod", a slim shell that adds on wireless charging functionality and IR blasters for use as a remote control.

The Edge mod brings a notification-driven LED light show to edges of the Moto Z
The Edge mod brings a notification-driven LED light show to edges of the Moto Z

Also of interest are the Z Sterilizer mod, which incorporates a germicidal UV light for sterilizing small objects like door handles, the Mico Solar Battery mod, which adds a 2,200 mAh battery with a solar cell for charging on the go, and the Euromod, a digital toolbox for use with Eurorack synthesizers.

Other finalists' proposed mods include two takes on walkie talkie functionality, a multi-functional measurement tool, a remote for smart home devices, a case with built-in retractable headphones and a digital recorder.

One of the contest's more niche entries – the Euromod, a tool for the Eurorack modular synthesizer
One of the contest's more niche entries – the Euromod, a tool for the Eurorack modular synthesizer

All of these mods have pronounced differences from those in the current lineup. The Moto Z and Moto Z Force launched with Power Pack battery mods, the Moto Insta-Share Projector, and the JBL Sound Boost Speaker. Others have been introduced since then, including the Hasselblad True Zoom Camera. Each one is sold separately, which means the cumulative kit can cost a pretty penny.

Up to 10 winners will be announced next month. According to Motorola, they will be chosen based on the originality, commercial viability, use of the Moto Z platform and crowdfunding success. Winners will be given the opportunity to pitch their ideas to Motorola's executive development team and possibly receive an investment from Lenovo Capital, which has set aside up to US$1 million to help make the best ideas a reality.

Source: Motorola

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