Motorola's Edge+ Isn't Worth the $1,000 It'll Cost You

The Ultra-Res mode can be used to take 50-megapixel photos, but the quality in this mode is not as good as it could be.

Portrait images do deliver accurate blur effects, and that depth camera is put to good use. Poor detail and skin tones coming out a bit too red are some of the issues that impair this. The camera system starts to fail there. Even with Night Vision mode, low-light images are often too dim, with shoddy details and muddy colors. They are fine, but not what you would expect from a $1,000 phone.

The camera system isn't the only issue The water resistance of this phone is rated at a lower level than a full dunk in the pool. Every flagship phone for years has had the same rating that says the device can survive underwater at a certain depth for a short time. I don't know why the Edge+ 2022 doesn't offer that peace of mind.

The 5G is confusing. The only way to get the fastest 5G speeds is on the Edge+ model. The unlocked version will only be able to access sub-5G on T-Mobile and AT&T at a later date. This is odd. The majority of high-end phones come with robust 5G coverage out of the gate. It will be small, but at least it is there. Not on the Edge.

There is a software upgrade policy. There are only two OS upgrades and three years of security updates for this phone. It would have been better a few years ago. Now? It is at the bottom of the pack. Four OS upgrades and five years of security updates are offered by the company. Three OS upgrades and five years of security updates are offered by the internet giant. Broad software support means more features, a more secure phone, and the option to hold onto your device a lot longer.

The Edge+ looks nice in its shiny blue color, but I have noticed a weird smudge on the rear glass. I have not dropped the phone, but a case is a good idea. The frame is plastic and not aluminum. The front glass and back glass are both made by the same company, but they are not as durable as the Gorilla Glass Victus you will find in competitors.

The right price.

When I was briefed about the Edge+, it boasted of a stylus like the S22 Ultra. The company didn't bother to send me the stylus or the case, so I have no idea how well it works. It is an option if you are a stylus.

It is a shame that the Edge+ does not bring much to the table. The Moto Mods system, which let you attach accessories to the back of the phone, was a risk that was taken by the company. There is a Moto just that exists.

If you can afford a $1,000 phone such as this, I think you should go for the S22 range or the Pixel 6 and Pro. Better software support, nicer cameras, robust 5G, and improved water resistance are some of the things they have. If the Edge+ is on sale for less than $700? You will not find yourself on the edge of technology.