Motorola Signature review: Value for money, 'Flagship Killer' smartphones are back!

The term "flagship" often conjures up images of hefty devices with large screens, multiple cameras, and a price tag that matches their premium status. However, Motorola is challenging this norm with the launch of its latest smartphone, the Motorola Signature, which some are already dubbing the next 'flagship killer.' After testing the device for several weeks, we aim to determine if Motorola has successfully redefined what a flagship can be, especially in an era where competitors are raising their prices amid global RAM shortages. First impressions of the Motorola Signature reveal a sleek design that stands out for its slim profile. Measuring just 6.99mm thick and weighing 186 grams, it is exceptionally easy to handle. The use of aircraft-grade aluminum and a unique linen-inspired textured back provides a graceful, anti-fingerprint finish that feels superior to the typical glass surfaces found on many smartphones. Available in two Pantone-validated colors—Martini Olive and Carbon—its design closely rivals that of the iPhone Air, which is only slightly slimmer at 6.1mm. With its impressive build quality and MIL-STD-810H protection, you might find yourself wanting to flaunt this phone without a case. The display is another standout feature, boasting a 6.8-inch 1.5K Extreme AMOLED screen with a remarkable 165Hz refresh rate. It reaches a peak brightness of 6,200 nits, making it one of the brightest displays available. Whether you’re working under harsh office lights or in direct sunlight, the legibility remains top-notch. Under the hood, the Signature is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor and offers up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM. During our performance tests with demanding games like Genshin Impact and Call of Duty Mobile, the device delivered smooth performance without any stuttering. While there was a slight warmth during the initial boot of Genshin Impact, the gameplay itself was fluid and responsive, showcasing the device’s capabilities. Given the current market trends where RAM prices are skyrocketing, Motorola's offering of a 12GB variant starting under Rs 60,000 is particularly noteworthy, especially when competitors are charging significantly more for similar specs. The camera system features three 50MP sensors, including a main Sony LYTIA 828, a telephoto with 3x optical zoom, and an ultra-wide lens. The photos captured are sharp and vibrant, with color accuracy validated by Pantone. While there is noticeable improvement in camera performance, the size of the camera cutout may detract from the otherwise sleek design, reminiscent of some of Motorola’s more budget-oriented models. Battery life is impressive, with a 5,200mAh silicon-carbon battery that easily lasts through a full workday, even with heavy usage. The 90W TurboPower charging is impressively fast, complemented by 50W wireless charging—features typically found in much pricier devices. It is worth noting that the phone does heat up during rapid charging, a minor trade-off for such a slim design. On the software front, Motorola excels with its clean Android 16 experience, free from unnecessary bloatware, and promises 7 years of OS and security updates. Notably, the device includes a ‘Signature Club’ app, providing exclusive benefits valued at up to Rs 20,000, such as dining reservations and airport pickups, enhancing the overall user experience. In conclusion, the Motorola Signature emerges as a formidable contender in the flagship market. With a starting price of Rs 59,999, it offers an impressive processor, an exceptional display, and a commitment to software longevity—making it a wise investment for those seeking top-tier performance without the hefty price tag typically associated with flagship devices. Despite a few design quibbles, this smartphone is a strong recommendation for anyone looking for premium features without the premium cost.