Apple Plans to Build Three ‘Big’ Factories in the United States

Apple is planning to build three “big, big, big” manufacturing plants in the United States, Apple CEO Tim Cook reportedly told U.S. President Donald Trump. The news was shared by Trump in an interview with The Wall Street Journal.

Apple CEO Tim Cook at the Executive Tech Summit at Trump Tower in December of 2016
Cook is said to have promised to build “three big plants, beautiful plants,” but little additional information is available. What those plants will manufacture is unclear, as is their potential location.

“I spoke to [Mr. Cook], he’s promised me three big plants–big, big, big,” Mr. Trump said as part of a discussion about business-tax reform and business investment. “I said you know, Tim, unless you start building your plants in this country, I won’t consider my administration an economic success. He called me, and he said they are going forward.”

Apple representatives declined to provide clarification on Trump’s statement.

Apple has been investigating manufacturing in the United States since Trump said “we’re going to get Apple to start building their damn computers and things in this country instead of other countries,” during a campaign speech at Virginia’s Liberty University in 2016. At the time, Trump threatened to introduce a 45 percent tax on products imported from China.

Following pressure from Trump, Apple reportedly asked its suppliers Foxconn and Pegatron to look into making iPhones in the United States.

While Pegatron declined, Foxconn is planning to build a TFT-LCD factory in the United States, with the latest rumors suggesting the company is considering Wisconsin as the state where the facility will be built.

Apple CEO Tim Cook previously explained that iPhones are manufactured in China because of the skill of the workforce. “China put an enormous focus on manufacturing,” he said. “The U.S., over time, began to stop having as many vocational kind of skills. I mean, you can take every tool and die maker in the United States and probably put them in a room that we’re currently sitting in. In China, you would have to have multiple football fields.”

Note: Due to the political nature of the discussion regarding this topic, the discussion thread is located in our Politics, Religion, Social Issues forum. All forum members and site visitors are welcome to read and follow the thread, but posting is limited to forum members with at least 100 posts.

Tags: Tim Cook, Donald Trump
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Rethink your whole commute with the intuitive, lean-to-steer CycleBoard

Why it matters to you

Thrill seekers and commuters alike will find something to love in CycleBoards, a lean-to-steer electric vehicle.

Your commute has never been as easy as it can be with the CycleBoard. Bid adieu to crowded public transportation and gas-guzzling car rides — instead, you can rely on the first stand-up, lean-to-steer, portable electric vehicle to get you safely and efficiently from Point A to Point B.

Meant to satisfy both commuters and adrenaline junkies alike, the CycleBoard is an inherently stable form of transportation thanks to its three-wheeled design. Really, you can think of it as a grown-up scooter, but one that you don’t even have the push to ride. The vehicle (because really, that’s what it is) can reach up to 20 miles per hour, though for your younger kids, you can program the Board to top out at lower speeds.

And because the CycleBoard’s movement depends on your own movement, your reflexes become your steering wheel. That means that your experience is exactly what you make of it — the more aggressive your approach, the more adventurous of a ride you’ll have.

As is stands, a number of CycleBoard models are available, starting at $1,300. The Phantom Black Elite, for example, features a 15-mile range on full charge, and can hit a top speed of 20 mph. Its shock-absorbing inflatable tires and cruise control capabilities make it a relatively easy ride whether you’re getting to work or just going for a stroll around the neighborhood. It weighs in at just 44 pounds and its platform is 23 inches long and 8.5 inches wide.

More expensive models, like the Nighthawk Elite, can set you back up to $1,700, but feature an extended battery pack for a 25-mile range on a full charge. Plus, the Nighthawk comes with an integrated security lock and a universal smart phone mount, as well as an additional deck and three-piece fender kit.

CycleBoards are capable of accommodating riders of up to 250 pounds, and have an adjustable handlebar height of 34 to 40 inches. And don’t worry — you don’t need to have a license to operate one of these Boards — at least, not in the U.S. If you’re planning on driving internationally, however, you ought to check local laws in your country of use.

Razer’s Tiamat V2 headsets will build you a brand-new surround soundstage

Why it matters to you

Surround sound audio can have a big impact on a game’s immersion, especially in first-person titles.

There was a time when having surround sound audio meant laying a lot of cable around you gaming room to hook up a number of different speakers. While that’s still the holy grail of an immersive soundscape for some, Razer and its contemporaries believe you can achieve the next-best thing with a high-end headset. The second generation of Razer’s Tiamat gaming headsets is looking to do that with gusto.

Offering high-end surround sound and maximum bass for gamers, the Tiamat line comes in two flavors: The 7.1 V2, which packs 10 neodymium magnet drivers for true surround sound capabilities, while the 2.2 V2 packs in four larger drivers for added bass in the stereo field.

The Tiamat 7.1 V2 comes with five drivers per ear cup: A 40mm subwoofer, 30mm drivers for the front and center, and 20mm drivers for the rear and side surround. As well as delivering true surround sound to the discerning gamer, these drivers also make up part of the headset’s aesthetic, as each earcup has a clear plastic coating and green backlighting for each of the drivers.

The headset also comes with a new “Audio Control Unit,” which lets gamers adjust the volume of each channel individually using the turn dial. It also offers support for pass-through sound, so you can easily switch between headphone and speaker audio.

All of those audio capabilities are backed up by a unidirectional microphone, which offers crisp and clear communication to your enemies and allies alike during your heated gaming sessions.

Joining the Tiamat 7.1 V2 is its little brother, the aptly named, 2.2 V2. It’s named as such because it sports a standard driver and a a subwoofer driver in each earcup. As is quite common with stereo headsets, its drivers are larger than its surround-sound sibling, coming in at 50mm a piece.

Those subwoofers should give the headset a heavy-bass sound and thanks to its in-line volume control and splitter cable, you can use it on a variety of devices, including smartphones and consoles.

Both headsets are available now on Razer’s store and from select retailers. The Tiamat 7.1 V2 will set you back $200, while the Tiamat 2.2 V2 costs $130.

HP revamps the Pavilion all-in-one as a family-focused device

Why it matters to you

If you need a new family PC, HP’s Pavilion all-in-ones do offer a lot, though it’s worth noting that their gaming capabilities will not be particularly strong.

HP has announced an overhauled and revamped Pavilion lineup of all-in-one PCs, designing it as a catchall device type with families in mind. As suitable for kids finishing up homework as it is in letting the adults pay bills and check out recipes for dinner, these devices pack the latest Intel hardware for high-speed processing and a large HD display for crisp visuals.

While all-in-one PCs aren’t for everyone and gamers might still like to run a boxy desktop system that doesn’t look too dissimilar to PCs of the early 21st century, everyday systems for everyday use can opt for something sleeker. All-in-ones like HP’s new Pavilions pack all of the powerful hardware inside the monitor, making for a neat and compact package, even as they accommodate an expansive, widescreen display.

The new Pavilion lineup is offered in two size options: 23.8-inch and 27-inch, diagonally, with options for an ultra-thin bezel design and fabric-coated speakers. Each of those screens features touchscreen functionality too, allowing for a variety of input methods. Resolution options vary from 1080P full-HD, all the way up to 4K.

On the inside HP will offer up to a Core-i7 Intel processor from the seventh-generation paired with 16GB of RAM. If you want your all-in-one to be a dab hand at basic gaming, there’s also the option for an AMD Radeon 530 graphics chip for added power.

Storage-wise there will be options for hard drives and more modern solid-state drives. Each all-in-one also comes with HDMI in and out connectors, as well as a 3-in-1 media card slot, a single USB Type-C port, a pair of USB 3.0 Type-A connectors and two USB 2.0 connectors, too.

Although there is a webcam built in to the display, HP has given a thought to those conscious of personal and family privacy. Each Pavilion all-in-one is fitted with a privacy screen for the camera, which covers it when not in use. There is also a hard-cut for both microphone and camera, so they are automatically disabled when not being actively used.

Regardless of which options you pick with the new Pavilions though, each comes with an adjustable display that can tilt and lean to your specifications and a sculpture-like stand, which gives it a unique, minimalist look.

We’re also told that HP has taken steps to minimize software clutter, drastically reducing the amount of pre-installed software.

Although HP has yet to reveal a launch date for the new systems, they are listed on the official site as “coming soon.” Pricing information hasn’t been announced either, though the last generation started at around the $750 mark.

Google CEO promises 11 Daydream-compatible phones by end of 2017

Why it matters to you

Google’s Daydream platform offers an easy, affordable method of enjoying high quality virtual reality content, and it’s about to become more readily available than ever before.

One of the biggest obstacles that is preventing virtual reality from taking off among mainstream audiences is the fact that dedicated hardware is so expensive. For that reason, smartphone-based implementations of the technology are something of a gateway to the likes of the HTC Vive and the Oculus Rift — and now Google has announced a forthcoming expansion of its Daydream program.

Speaking on an Alphabet earnings call yesterday, Google CEO Sundar Pichai revealed plans to make Daydream functionality available on a wider range of handsets, according to a report from The Verge. By the end of this year, a total of 11 Android handsets that support the technology will be available to consumers.

Currently, only the following phones are compatible with Daydream; Google’s Pixel line, the Motorola Moto Z, the Huawei Mate 9 Pro, the Porsche Design Mate 9, the ZTE Axon 7, and the Asus Zenfone AR. The Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus are also in the process of receiving support via software updates.

Daydream has received plenty of praise for its capacity to produce high quality VR experiences using smartphone hardware. It’s not quite on the level of a dedicated headset, but it’s comfortable and it’s immersive, and also rather convenient.

To experience VR content, users simply need to insert their smartphone into the Daydream View, an accessory that costs $80. It’s a similar idea to Samsung Gear VR, but Daydream may have an edge over the competition due to the fact that it’s compatible with a range of devices.

Google clearly has some major ambitions for VR, as its plans to expand the ranges of devices that support Daydream isn’t the only method of broadening the project that is in the works. At this year’s Google I/O keynote, the company revealed an early prototype of a standalone VR headset.

Pichai fell short of mentioning any specific models of smartphone, or even which manufacturers would be adding to the pool of Daydream-compatible devices before the end of 2017. However, as companies begin to refresh their flagship devices as the year comes to a close, we’ll see who’s jumping on board with Google’s ongoing VR interests.

Google CEO promises 11 Daydream-compatible phones by end of 2017

Why it matters to you

Google’s Daydream platform offers an easy, affordable method of enjoying high quality virtual reality content, and it’s about to become more readily available than ever before.

One of the biggest obstacles that is preventing virtual reality from taking off among mainstream audiences is the fact that dedicated hardware is so expensive. For that reason, smartphone-based implementations of the technology are something of a gateway to the likes of the HTC Vive and the Oculus Rift — and now Google has announced a forthcoming expansion of its Daydream program.

Speaking on an Alphabet earnings call yesterday, Google CEO Sundar Pichai revealed plans to make Daydream functionality available on a wider range of handsets, according to a report from The Verge. By the end of this year, a total of 11 Android handsets that support the technology will be available to consumers.

Currently, only the following phones are compatible with Daydream; Google’s Pixel line, the Motorola Moto Z, the Huawei Mate 9 Pro, the Porsche Design Mate 9, the ZTE Axon 7, and the Asus Zenfone AR. The Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus are also in the process of receiving support via software updates.

Daydream has received plenty of praise for its capacity to produce high quality VR experiences using smartphone hardware. It’s not quite on the level of a dedicated headset, but it’s comfortable and it’s immersive, and also rather convenient.

To experience VR content, users simply need to insert their smartphone into the Daydream View, an accessory that costs $80. It’s a similar idea to Samsung Gear VR, but Daydream may have an edge over the competition due to the fact that it’s compatible with a range of devices.

Google clearly has some major ambitions for VR, as its plans to expand the ranges of devices that support Daydream isn’t the only method of broadening the project that is in the works. At this year’s Google I/O keynote, the company revealed an early prototype of a standalone VR headset.

Pichai fell short of mentioning any specific models of smartphone, or even which manufacturers would be adding to the pool of Daydream-compatible devices before the end of 2017. However, as companies begin to refresh their flagship devices as the year comes to a close, we’ll see who’s jumping on board with Google’s ongoing VR interests.

DJI investigates after Spark users report fly-aways and unexplained crashes

Why it matters to you

While the company’s size and history mean DJI drones include some of the best safeguards in the industry, the Spark isn’t immune to potential drone problems.

The DJI Spark is the company’s cheapest and smallest drone yet — but now the firm is investigating multiple user reports of unexplained crashes. On the company’s online forum, a handful of users have reported that they lost control of the drone while using the gesture controls or the mobile app, causing Spark fly-aways and crashes.

“DJI is aware of these reports and we are investigating to determine the causes,” a DJI spokesperson told Quartz, who first pointed out at least fourteen similar complaints on the online forums.

One user says that the drone was in tracking mode when it suddenly flew away and crashed to the ground. After three hours of searching, the drone was recovered, allowing access to the flight data and the video of the fly-away:

Another user reported the Spark losing power midflight and falling to the ground while the user was operating the drone with the iPhone app.

While it’s unclear if the DJI Spark fly-away issue is widespread or confined to a few faulty units, or even if the problem is a result of user error, DJI is investigating. On one forum, a DJI official encourages users who experience the problem to send the company the flight log for analysis.

DJI’s small drone has been well received, with reviewers impressed at the Twinkie-sized drone’s flight performance, intelligent flight modes, and obstacle avoidance. While small drones tend to be more difficult to control, the Spark’s reliability during a two-week test has the drone slated as one of the best options for beginners.

If DJI does in fact find a hardware or software error is to blame, the Spark wouldn’t be the first compact drone to experience issues. GoPro recalled its first drone, the Karma, shortly after launch because several units lost power and fell out of the air. The issue happened to be a simple fix that could have actually been temporarily done with duct-tape — the battery didn’t fit properly and could lose connection in a rough flight — and the drone is now back on the market.

The Spark and the Karma have several threads in common, offering aerial views from a drone that can fit inside a backpack. The Karma is noted for the simplicity of the flight as well as the three-axis gimbal, but as the company’s first drone doesn’t use features like tracking and obstacle avoidance.

Fly-aways are a common issue with unmanned aerial vehicles, often caused by losing connection with the controller, though other factors like electromagnetic interference can also play a role. DJI’s drones use several different safeguards designed to help in such an issue, including setting a home point, which the drone will automatically return to if the connection with the controller is lost.

IBM’s X-Force Red wants to hack your car for your own protection

Why it matters to you

IBM wants to bring autonomous, ongoing security testing to all connected devices, helping to prevent major, global intrusions that are becoming all-too common.

IBM announced the debut of two new security testing initiatives targeting the connected car industry and the Internet of Things (IoT). Building upon the foundation of its penetration testing division, X-Force Red, IBM is looking to instill new standards of security for smart products, as well as drive an industry practice of security testing throughout the life of a product.

With a projected 61 million connected cars and more than 20.4 billion IoT devices running in the wild by 2020, there is no doubt that the connected world of smart-technology is coming to more products than ever before. As we have seen in a number of instances though, these sorts of devices, designed and constructed in industries without a wealth of experience in digital security, can open up huge holes for hackers and nefarious actors to exploit.

That is where IBM comes in. It already operates a penetration testing branch, known as X-Force Red, which provides both expertise and security testing to its customers, but it wants to take things a step further. Specifically targeting the automotive and IoT industries, IBM is hoping to engender new practices and standards within connected devices and their industries.

With connected cars, IBM believes much more can be done to keep them and its users safe. It previously raised the issue of a change in ownership potentially leaving powerful applications and connected features with the previous owner, opening up huge holes in the vehicle’s security. With several thousand potentially connected components of concern too, IBM is looking to provide automotive makers with a comprehensive testing platform to make sure that all systems are locked up tight before sale.

In developing its new, automotive testing platforms, IBM worked with more than a dozen automotive manufacturers and suppliers and now believes X-Force Red can offer comprehensive testing and ongoing recommendations for future car security. It aims to share the best practices it develops, to standardize security protocols across the industry.

IBM wants to do the same with IoT devices too, though it believes the industry presents even greater threats to end user and enterprise security. It claims that due to shortened production cycles, products are often rushed through the design process, leaving them and their users vulnerable.

To that end, IBM is bringing its Watson computing system to help test the security of IoT devices autonomously and remotely. Combined with the existing X-Force Red testing initiatives, IBM believes this will deliver a next-generation testing platform for IoT devices, helping them launch with better defenses.

However, IBM wants to change the way the industry looks at security — not just as something to get right for the product’s debut, but throughout its life cycle too. It claims that 58 percent of IoT developing organizations only test IoT applications during the production phase. It wants to extend that until the death of the product.

IBM will look to offer customers cloud-based security testing throughout a product’s life, as well as create practices for responding to threats and incidents.

Best Waterproof Cases for the Galaxy S8

You can’t go wrong with double the waterproofing protection.

Just because the Galaxy S8 and S8+ are water-resistant doesn’t mean they’ll hold up perfectly to all the plans you have. If you’re looking to bring your phone scuba diving, take some epic photos diving off the dock at the lake, or even plan to take it on long hikes in the wilderness, having that extra protection for water, dust, and most importantly drops is huge. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Best advice for any waterproof case is to do a test before you slap it onto your phone. Put some tissue paper into the case and then seal it up and submerge it for a few minutes. If the paper comes out dry, you’re good to go!

• Trianium Waterproof Dry Bag Pouch
• Lifeproof FRE case
• iThrough Waterproof Case
• AmazonBasics Universal Waterproof Smartphone Pouch

Trianium Waterproof Dry Bag Pouch

Both the Galaxy S8 and S8+ feature industry-leading water and dust resistance, but you can never be too safe. This universal dry bag pouch for smartphones can accommodate phones with a diagonal screen size of up to 6 inches, so the Galaxy S8 is in and the S8+ is out.

This pouch features crystal clear windows on the front and back so you can access and use your phone and its camera unimpeded while underwater in the ocean or in a swimming pool without worrying about the effects of salt water or chlorine. It also includes a handy wrist strap, so even if you accidentally drop your phone, it won’t sink on you — a water-resistant phone isn’t much use when it’s resting at the bottom of a lake.

Best of all, this is a two-pack, so you can gift your second one to your traveling partner, family member, or friend for around $8.

See at Amazon

Lifeproof FRE Case

Getting a premium $90 Lifeproof case for a phone that’s already quite water- and dust-resistant might seem a little redundant, but often times it’s those redundant failsafes that end up saving the day.

This case is an ideal choice for any snowboarders, surfers, rock climbers, or outdoor enthusiasts who may have specifically eyed the Galaxy S8 or S8+ for it’s water and dust resistance and are looking to double-down on that protection with a case that will also protect the beautiful all-glass design of the phone. This case features a built-in screen cover to deflect any damage and was designed to be as minimalist as possible to keep the sleek form of the phone intact.

See it for the Galaxy S8 below, or the Galaxy S8+.

See at Lifeproof

iThrough Waterproof Case

Looking for a bit of added protection but don’t want to break the bank? Check out the iThrough Waterproof case. There’s savings to be had here coming in around $17 — one-fifth the cost of the Lifeproof FRE case — but you’re also going to want to lower your expectations a bit. Ultimately, you get what you pay for especially in the make and break world of waterproofing.

It’s a slim and lightweight design and includes a built-in screen cover and flaps over the charging port and headphone jack to keep out any dirt or water, and it also features a pop-out kickstand on the back, which is handy. It’s also available in a larger size for the Galaxy S8+.

See at Amazon

AmazonBasics Universal Waterproof Smartphone Pouch

Only looking for an added layer of protection for your phone and don’t want to spend more than $4? Amazon has got you covered!

Check out the AmazonBasics Universal Waterproof Smartphone Pouch, a simple waterproof bag designed for phones up to 6 inches diagonally, so it will work with the Galaxy S8 and many other phones you may have. If you’ll be using it with your Galaxy S8, you’re probably not as worried about some water seeping in, but you’ll get that extra bit of protection here with a wrist strap as well.

See at Amazon

Do you need extra protection?

Have you bought a waterproof accessory for your Galaxy S8 or S8+? Let us know what you got and what you think of it!

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Moto Z2 Force Edition is official: 2730mAh battery, Snapdragon 835, ShatterShield display

Motorola combines two devices and keeps it high end.

Motorola’s top-end flagship for 2017 is the Moto Z2 Force Edition, a year-on follow-up to the Moto Z2 Force Droid but in many ways the “standard” Moto Z as well. The Moto Z2 Force understandably conforms to a similar design as the first-gen Moto Z line on account of its Moto Mod compatibility, but makes improvements in a few key areas and provides a top-end counterpoint to the previously announced Moto Z2 Play.

The star of the show, just like last year, is the 5.5-inch AMOLED screen at QHD resolution that carriers the “ShatterShield” brand and a four-year shatterproof guarantee. It’s paired with a 7000 series aluminum frame and metal back to keep the “Force” name alive, though that isn’t also paired with an increased water resistance rating.

On the face of it there are some curious decisions here.

Just as expected we’re looking at a Snapdragon 835 running the show, paired with 4GB of RAM in the U.S. or 6GB elsewhere in the world. In either case you’re getting 64GB of storage with an SD card slot — but China has the option of a 128GB model. The camera setup is rather interesting, with dual 12MP sensors — one color, one monochrome — that offer things like selective focusing, multi-image processing and native black-and-white shots. We’ll see how it plays out in the real world — the rest of the flagship competition offers a pretty great camera experience this year.

More: Complete Moto Z2 Force Edition specs

One of the big rumors pointing to a drop in battery capacity has unfortunately come true. We’re looking at 2730mAh here, which is a substantial cut (22%) from last year’s Force at 3500mAh — though it’s a small improvement from the 2016 Moto Z’s 2600mAh. Motorola says that’s good for “all day battery,” but we’ll see how that plays out — a $79 battery Mod may be in order. Perhaps most interestingly, the lower-end Moto Z2 Play has a larger 3000mAh battery despite having a weaker processor and actually being slightly thinner. (The Z2 Play also has a 3.5 mm headphone jack, for what it’s worth.)

One area where Motorola has undeniably improved year-over-year is in the launch plan. First, the phone is coming to all major U.S. carriers — Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint and U.S. Cellular — in addition to unlocked from Motorola directly. And rather than having a substantial delay after its introduction, the Moto Z2 Force goes up for pre-order tomorrow (July 26) in the U.S. for an August 10 launch. Pricing is going to vary by carrier, but Motorola is quoting $720 as a base price.

Moto Z2 Force Edition

• Moto Z2 Force is official
• Moto Z2 Force specs
• This is the Moto 360 Camera Mod
• Join the discussion in the forums!

Press release:

Connect with the World Around You with the New Moto Z2 Force Edition and 360 Camera Moto Mod™

July 25, 2017 — Last month we announced Moto Z2 Play and a collection of new Moto Mods, including an on-the-go gaming powerhouse, a splash-proof speaker with extra battery life, a wireless charging shell with style and a Moto Mod offering TurboPower charging in a snap.

Today we’re introducing our most advanced smartphone ever and a new Moto Mod that lets you capture everything, literally. These devices set the standard for smartphone innovation and allow you to engage in your passions and connect with the world in meaningful, intentional and purposeful ways.

Moto Z2 Force Edition: Protected, Polished and Powerful

The new Moto Z2 Force Edition shatters limitations with a screen guaranteed not to crack or shatter, a slim, all-metal design, dual 12MP cameras and the fastest possible data speeds.

Most smartphone owners have experienced the pain of breaking their screen. With Moto ShatterShield™ technology, you don’t have to worry anymore, with a 5.5″ Quad HD AMOLED display that’s guaranteed not to crack or shatter*. And the new Moto Z’s thin, polished design is reinforced with the strength of 7,000 series aluminum. It’s a combination you simply won’t find anywhere else.

Two cameras mean twice the focus. Now you can focus on what’s most important and take professional looking photos with dual 12MP cameras, one monochrome and one color. These cameras work together to capture brilliant, top quality photos. You can even shoot like a pro by adding a blur effect to the background or foreground of images, thanks to the two cameras that enable true depth of field.

The new Moto Z’s all-day battery** allows you to keep going without searching for a power outlet, and when it is time for a boost, add 8 hours of power in just minutes with TurboPower charging.*** With the powerful Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 835 Mobile Platform, the phone also features unbeatable performance, instant responsiveness, and the fastest possible data speeds**** with Gigabit LTE, allowing you to download large files and apps in no time, or stream music and videos – even in Ultra HD. This means no more waiting for pages to load, so you can surf the web effortlessly.

Just like Moto Z2 Play, Moto Z2 Force Edition features our latest Moto Experiences including night display that automatically adjusts your screen to warmer tones at night and instant queries in Moto Voice that provide helpful information like the daily weather or calendar updates. Also the front fingerprint reader with one button nav lets you quickly navigate your phone.

And because this new Moto Z is also compatible with Moto Mods, you control your mobile experience, and can use your phone to interact with the world around you in new ways.
– instantly transforming into a 360° camera, gaming console, powerful stereo speaker, video projector, battery powerhouse and more.

Moto 360 Camera: Capture Everything

Simply snap the new 360 Camera Moto Mod on your Moto Z and it into a 360-degree camera that captures everything. With the click of a button, you can record interactive 360-degree 4k video featuring immersive 3D audio. This allows you to truly relive the moment when it’s time to play back your videos – because just like real life, the audio will follow the direction you’re viewing. You can also capture a whole new perspective with 150-degree ultra wide-angle still front and rear photos.

Easily edit your 360-degree photos and videos from your Moto Z with advanced editing software that allows you to adjust content to fit your unique needs. Once they’re ready to be viewed, simply share your photos and videos with friends and on social media right from the Google Photos app. And you can stream live across social channels, letting the world experience the moment with you anywhere, anytime.

Availability and Pricing

In the U.S., you’ll find our flagship smartphone at all major carriers. This means Moto Z2 Force Edition will be available at AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, U.S. Cellular and Verizon, in addition to Best Buy and Motorola.com. Pre-orders begin today and it will be available August 10 starting at $30 per month. For a limited time, when you buy one, you’ll get a free Insta-Share Projector Moto Mod by mail. Ask your preferred carrier for terms and conditions.

The new Moto Z2 Force Edition will roll out in Mexico, Brazil and various countries in Europe, the Middle East and Africa starting later this summer.

Moto 360 Camera will be available globally for $299.99 USD (MSRP) beginning August 10. Check with your local PR rep for exact availability.