Motorola Razr: Complete History from Iconic Flip to Modern Foldables

Milesh Kumar

Publish on: 24 August, 2025

The Motorola Razr is one of the most legendary names in mobile history. Launched first in 2004, it became a cultural style icon, selling millions worldwide. Over the years, Motorola has reinvented the Razr multiple times—from the ultra-thin flip phone to today’s futuristic foldable smartphones. Here’s the complete history of the Motorola Razr, from its origins to the upcoming 2025 models.

1. The Original Icon – Motorola Razr V3 (2004)

Unveiled: July 27, 2004 (Chicago event)
US Launch: November 16, 2004
Design: Ultra-thin aluminum body (just 13.9 mm), electroluminescent flat keypad, external mini-display.
Specs: VGA camera, 2.2-inch internal display, basic multimedia features.
Price: Around $500–600 (later subsidized by carriers).

The Razr V3 wasn’t just a phone; it was a fashion statement. Celebrities, businesspeople, and everyday users carried it as a symbol of modern style.

Sales impact: Over 50 million units sold by mid-2006, and more than 130 million total—making it the best-selling clamshell phone ever.

2. Expansion of the Razr Line (2005–2007)

Motorola capitalized on the Razr’s popularity with multiple variants:

V3i (2005): 1.23 MP camera + iTunes support.
V3c/V3m (2005–2006): CDMA versions for Verizon/Sprint.
V3x & V3xx (2006): 3G / 3.5G models with improved cameras.
Razr2 Series (2007): Slimmer, larger external display, 2 MP camera.

While the design stayed strong, competition from Nokia smartphones and the 2007 iPhone quickly weakened Razr sales.

3. Comeback Attempt – Droid Razr (2011–2012)

Motorola revived the brand in the Android era with the Droid Razr.

Announcement: October 18, 2011
Release: November 11, 2011 (Verizon Wireless)
Highlights:
- 7.1 mm thin (record at launch)
- Kevlar back, Gorilla Glass
- 4.3-inch Super AMOLED display
- 8 MP camera
- Android OS

A Razr Maxx version offered a much larger battery (3300 mAh), praised by power users.

While stylish, it couldn’t keep up with Samsung Galaxy S and Apple iPhone dominance.

4. The Foldable Revolution (2019–2020)

Motorola tapped into nostalgia by launching a modern foldable Razr.

Announced: November 14, 2019
Released: February 2020
Features:
- 6.2-inch foldable OLED inner screen
- 2.7-inch Quick View external display
- Snapdragon 710 processor
- 16 MP main camera

In September 2020, the Razr 5G improved on it with:

Snapdragon 765G (5G support)
48 MP camera
2,800 mAh battery

Stylish, but criticized for high price ($1,399–$1,499) and mid-range performance.

5. Modern Reinvention (2022–2024)

a. Razr (2022)

Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor
6.7-inch 144 Hz foldable display
3-inch external screen

b. Razr 40 & Razr 40 Ultra (2023)

Razr 40 Ultra: Huge 3.6-inch external screen, flagship specs
Razr 40: Affordable variant

These models finally brought Motorola closer to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip series in quality and features.

c. Razr 50 & Razr 50 Ultra (2024)

Launched July 2024
4-inch external screen (Ultra version)
AI features like Google Gemini integration
More durable hinge and battery upgrades

6. The Future – Razr 60 Series (2025)

Expected in April 2025, the Razr 60 & Razr 60 Ultra will push the line further:

Snapdragon 8s Elite chipset
Up to 1TB storage, multiple RAM options
165 Hz refresh rate inner display
Titanium hinge, dust-resistant IP48
4,500 mAh battery with fast charging

Motorola is clearly aiming to position the Razr 60 as a true premium foldable, competing head-to-head with Samsung, Oppo, and Huawei.

7. Why the Razr Legacy Endures

The Motorola Razr remains a cultural icon because:

It defined the thin flip phone era in the 2000s.
It was one of the best-selling phones of all time.
It successfully reinvented itself in the foldable era.
It balances nostalgia and innovation—a rare mix in mobile history.

8. Why the Razr Became Iconic

Ultra-thin aluminum design and metal keypad
Fashion-first positioning that later hit mass-market pricing
Massive cultural presence in the mid-2000s
Today, the foldable Razr delivers nostalgia plus modern functionality

9. Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Razr

Prioritize the cover screen: Bigger cover displays improve daily usability.
Check battery and charging: Look for higher mAh and faster wired charging.
Camera needs: Confirm sensor size, OIS, and low-light performance.
Durability: Newer hinge designs and water resistance are worth paying for.
Price vs value: Consider seasonal discounts and exchange offers.

Final Thoughts

From the 2004 Razr V3 that redefined mobile fashion to the 2025 Razr 60 Ultra that promises cutting-edge foldable tech, the Motorola Razr journey is a story of rise, fall, and revival.