Motorola’s latest product launch extends beyond smartphones, introducing the Moto Watch Fit and Moto Buds Loop. While the new Razr foldables tap into nostalgia, the company’s smartwatch and earbuds evoke a sense of déjà vu—bearing striking resemblances to Apple and Bose offerings. Even the demo placard for the Buds Loop cheekily notes, “Sound by Bose.”
The Moto Watch Fit, in particular, mirrors the Apple Watch’s design language—a trend also seen in Samsung’s 2024 Galaxy Watch lineup. This is a departure from Motorola’s earlier innovation, exemplified by the stylish circular Moto 360, a standout in Android Wear’s early days. The Watch Fit marks Motorola’s first in-house smartwatch in nearly a decade, yet it lacks the distinctive DNA of its predecessor.
A Competent but Uninspiring Smartwatch
On paper, the Moto Watch Fit checks the boxes for a basic fitness tracker. It features a 1.9-inch OLED display with 1,000 nits brightness, Corning Gorilla Glass 3, and swappable 22mm bands that mimic Apple’s modular lug system. It tracks heart rate, sleep, steps, blood oxygen, and includes built-in GPS with over 100 activity modes. Durability is covered with IP68 and 5ATM ratings, making it suitable for swimming and showers.
However, the watch runs on a proprietary OS—similar to budget options from Amazfit and OnePlus—meaning limited third-party apps but extended battery life (up to 16 days). Its thick bezels and Android-only compatibility further highlight its mid-tier positioning.
Open-Ear Buds with a Sparkle—But Questions Remain
The Moto Buds Loop adopt the open-ear design trend, much like Bose’s Ultra Open, resting on the outer ear rather than inside it. Motorola pitches them as “techno jewelry,” offering audio, call functionality, and situational awareness. Two variants are available: a standard model in deep green and a Swarovski crystal-adorned version in champagne.
While the Swarovski edition adds flair, the materials feel less premium than Bose’s offering. The flexible silicone construction ensures sweat and rain resistance, but the crystal-studded rubber aesthetic raises questions about practicality. Sound quality remains untested, though Motorola touts Bose’s tuning partnership.
Specs include 12mm drivers, spatial audio, four mics, and up to eight hours of playback (37 hours with the case). AI noise reduction and Smart Connect for Lenovo/Motorola device switching are notable perks—but without pricing details, their value is unclear.
Design Over Innovation?
Motorola’s keynote emphasized collaborations with Swarovski, Pantone, and FIFA, signaling a push for bold, fashion-forward tech. The accessories’ unified green hue and sparkle aim to stand out, yet the execution feels incomplete. While the Buds Loop’s design is eye-catching, their appeal may hinge on pricing—which Motorola has yet to disclose for North America.
UK prices offer a clue: the standard Buds Loop cost £129.99, the Swarovski version £249.99, and the Watch Fit £89.99. Whether these accessories justify their cost against rivals—or fall into the shadow of their inspirations—remains to be seen.
Motorola confirmed summer availability for the buds and “coming weeks” for the watch, with global pricing to follow. The company declined to comment on potential tariff influences. For now, the products leave a familiar taste—with a sprinkle of something new.
