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Motorola has quietly refreshed its budget lineup for North America, introducing the Moto G (2026) and a slightly trimmed Moto G Play (2026). Both phones aim to balance everyday performance with long battery life and crowd-pleasing prices.
What’s new and why it matters
The headline for the Moto G (2026) is MediaTek’s Dimensity 6300 chipset paired with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage — a modest but sensible spec sheet for a sub-$200 device. The phone also packs a big 5,200 mAh battery with up to 30W charging, a roomy 6.7-inch 120Hz display and Android 16 out of the box.
Key specs at a glance
- SoC: MediaTek Dimensity 6300
- Memory & storage: 4GB RAM, 128GB storage
- Display: 6.7" 120Hz, up to 1,000 nits (High Brightness Mode), Gorilla Glass 3
- Cameras: 50MP main, 32MP selfie, plus macro sensor (Moto G)
- Battery & charging: 5,200 mAh battery, up to 30W charging
- Build & durability: Leather-like finishes, IP52 splash/dust resistance
- Software: Ships with Android 16
Moto G Play: pared down but practical
If you want the same design and screen but at a lower price, the Moto G Play (2026) trims a few specs. It swaps the main 50MP camera for a 32MP unit, lowers the selfie shooter to 8MP and cuts charging to 18W. Otherwise the phones share the same chassis language and leather-like Pantone finishes.
Design and display notes
Both phones use a 6.7-inch panel with a 120Hz refresh rate — a feature still uncommon at this price point. Motorola claims up to 1,000 nits in High Brightness Mode for better outdoor visibility, while Gorilla Glass 3 protects the panel. The IP52 rating gives basic splash and dust protection, not full water resistance.
Colors, availability and pricing
Motorola leaned on Pantone-inspired names for finishes: the Moto G (2026) appears in Pantone Slipstream and Pantone Cattleya Orchid, while the Moto G Play ships in Pantone Tapestry. All finishes have a leather-like texture.
Release dates in the U.S. are staggered: the Moto G Play goes on sale November 13 through Motorola.com, Amazon, Best Buy, several carriers and retailers. The Moto G (2026) arrives December 11 on Motorola’s store and a wide carrier roster, with Amazon and Best Buy listings following January 15. Motorola’s suggested retail prices are competitive: $169.99 for the Moto G Play and $199.99 for the Moto G (2026). Both models will also reach Canada on the same dates.
Who should consider these phones?
Imagine a phone that covers the basics — reliable performance for apps and browsing, a big battery for multi-day use, and a high-refresh display for smoother scrolling — all under $200. That’s the practical pitch here. If you prioritize camera prowess or premium materials, you’ll want to look higher up the ladder. But for shoppers who want modern features on a tight budget, Motorola’s 2026 Moto G duo hits a familiar sweet spot.
Expect to see these models heavily promoted by prepaid carriers and big-box retailers through the holiday season — a timely move for price-conscious buyers looking for value without major compromises.
Source: gsmarena
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