Like other phone companies these days, Motorola has jumped on the AI ​​craze. And it’s doing so with the Moto Edge 50 Ultra, a new top-end phone that the company is launching in India today at a price of Rs 59,999. One of the differentiators that Motorola hopes the Edge 50 Ultra has from other AI-enabled phones is the level of integration with AI tools. The Moto Edge 50 Ultra comes with an in-built generative AI system that’s like having ChatGPT or Copilot in your pocket – without having to download an app. This means you can create images using just text on your phone, without the need for any third-party apps.

However, with great power comes great responsibility – and some anxiety. There are concerns about the potential for misuse, as well as, let’s just say, concerns about creating “inappropriate” images. Motorola says the concerns are valid, but have been addressed. Shivam Ranjan, Motorola’s marketing head in India, in an exclusive interview with India Today Tech revealed that their AI tools are so smart that they can reject any suspicious requests.

Besides AI, Ranjan also gave a glimpse of Motorola’s upcoming phone lineup, talked about the eternal struggle of software updates, and more.

Ranjan said, “We are focused on creating meaningful experiences with AI. We have two major segments in this regard. One is camera-based AI, which makes life simpler for consumers by optimising complex tasks in the background. For example, managing 100x zoom or capturing moving objects seamlessly. The second segment gives users the power to create content quickly, such as creating social media posts with our Magic Canvas feature.”

The best Ultra phone in town?

In the world of phones, the term Ultra has become synonymous with premium flagship devices. Currently, the Galaxy S24 Ultra, Xiaomi 14 Ultra, are all made keeping the top end segment in mind. So, does the Motorola Edge 50 Ultra stand a chance? Well, Ranjan is sure that the AI ​​integration makes the Edge 50 Ultra stand out among its competitors.

“This device is the first point where you will see this change having a real impact. We are taking advantage of this, developing in-house AI experiences, whether it is for the camera or other features,” he said. “Second, we have a very strong focus on ecosystem experiences. Consumers interact with multiple devices, not just smartphones, but also TVs, tablets and PCs – that’s where our SmartConnect features stand out.”

Talking about the camera, Ranjan says that the Edge 50 Ultra has the best camera system ever on a Motorola smartphone. “In terms of features, this device competes very well. I can confidently say that this is the best camera system in our series and will stand up to most flagship devices in the Android world. The AI ​​features take it to the next level,” he says.

Motorola’s upcoming launches in India

Ranjan confirmed that Motorola will continue to launch products in its budget segment, mid-range segment as well as the Razr series.

“We are in a phase of rapid growth, with double-digit growth outpacing the market. Our aim is to maintain this momentum, focusing on all consumer segments in the smartphone market, from affordable to premium products. Our aim is to become one of the top three brands in India and globally by FY 2025-26,” he added.

Speaking about Bose-powered audio products, Ranjan said, “We believe in long-term partnerships. Our collaboration with Bose and Pantone is an example of leveraging expertise to create the best experiences.”

He confirmed that more Bose-powered audio products will be launched, but did not provide details.

Software Updates for Motorola Phones

Ranjan said Motorola is aware that most users complain about the low number of software updates. In terms of software updates, Motorola offers three years of OS updates and four years of security updates. Ranjan said most consumers replace their devices within 36 months, making this update policy sufficient for most users. However, Motorola is open to increasing support based on active user data.