Moto X Play release news: U.S. version to be Moto Droid Maxx 2 and Verizon-exclusive only?

Moto X Play [Motorola website]

When it was launched, Motorola said that the Moto X Play won't be sold in the U.S., much to the disappointment of fans of the smartphone series in the region. However, there is word that the handset is coming to the U.S. after all, just under a different name.

The Moto X Play might be called the Moto Droid Maxx 2 when it arrives in the country as a Verizon exclusive. Unfortunately, the carrier hasn't showed any signs of releasing such, but since devices under the Droid name are often offered by the carrier, Verizon could announce its plans soon. 

It is expected that while the Moto Droid Maxx 2 will come with its own set of specs, they will most likely adapt those of the Moto X Play, which include the newly-introduced 3,650 mAh battery.

The Moto X Play comes with a 5.5-inch display with a pixel density of 403 ppi. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 615 processor with 2 GB RAM. The device has a 16 GB variant and a 32 GB model, and both have microSD slots which can expand the storage to up to 128 GB. 

The Moto Droid Maxx 2 could also get the same camera units – a 21-megapixel rear-facing camera with autofocus, dual-LED flash and HD video recording, as well as a 5-megapixel snapper on the front. It should also have Android 5.1.1 Lollipop out of the box. 

The Moto X Style, on the other hand, is being rumored to be renamed Moto Droid Turbo 2 when it hits Verizon along with the Moto Droid Maxx 2. This one is much bigger, with a 5.7-inch display and a 64 GB storage variant.

If all these turn out to be accurate, users in the U.S. should be able to purchase the Moto X devices in the form of Moto Droid handsets, but only from Verizon. 

News
Archbishop of Canterbury calls for peace in first Easter sermon
Archbishop of Canterbury calls for peace in first Easter sermon

Dame Sarah Mullally has used her first Easter Day sermon as Archbishop of Canterbury to renew calls for peace in the Middle East. 

Easter Sunday and the hope of resurrection
Easter Sunday and the hope of resurrection

The hope of the resurrection is especially precious in a world filled with grief, violence, uncertainty, and pain.

Activists warn Syriacs being erased in Syria
Activists warn Syriacs being erased in Syria

The Syriacs are mostly Christian.

New Iraq report urges stronger action to protect Christians and other religious minorities
New Iraq report urges stronger action to protect Christians and other religious minorities

Jim Shannon MP said the report records both “the progress observed” and “the ongoing challenges” that remain for religious minorities seeking to live in safety and freedom in Iraq.