It wasn’t that long ago that some cell phone pundits had written off Motorola as a major player in the industry. The introduction of the Backflip may prove some of them wrong.
The Backflip offers up an honest and modern cell phone experience, meeting all the new baselines set by demanding, savvy customers, including a large touch screen, a powerful Android operating system, and a variety of new ways to use the device not previously available.
One example is that the Backflip offers a track pad on the back of the screen, where you can actually control the front display simply by moving your finger. This makes for a comfortable navigation experience and a creative alternative to the heretofore idea that touching the screen directly was the only way to interact with it.
Motorola has found an interesting way to keep the thickness of the Backflip to a minimum by using a design which, when closed, actually exposes the full QWERTY keypad as the back of the phone. While this may seem shocking to some, shocking can be good, as it breaks new ground and provides a viable architecture that solves a thickness problem without creating a new one. Also, when closed, the rear, exposed QWERTY keypad remains inactive, so you won’t have to worry about accidentally touching a key that connects you with a foreign embassy or your ex-girlfriend. And we know how awkward that can be.
When opened, the spacious QWERTY keypad lights up, making texting a delight, and you can adjust the keyboard brightness. The keypad is effective and holds its own among many other devices, but lacks the subtle, hyper-engineered, contoured keys one finds on a BlackBerry.
The overall size of the Motorola Backflip is comparable to most popular touch screen phones, and slimmer than some.
As for specs, the Backflip is powerful and quick. It can render web pages quickly, in both portrait and landscape mode, the capacitive touch interface also offers haptic feedback, so you know you hit the correct button, and the resolution, while not best in class, is respectable. It also offers a 5 megapixel camera, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a number of dedicated keys that allow one-touch access to the Internet, home screen, search, etc.
The Backflip is a powerful device that offers users access to everything they need, from email and internet access, to tremendous customization and of course, a myriad of applications via the Android app store.
If you feel like taking a second look at Motorola, take a look at the Backflip.
What the Critics Are Saying...
- Terrence Russell, WiredIt's about time Motorola did something crazy. The Cliq was predictably sleek. The Droid was pragmatically chunky. But AT&T's new Backflip is just ... odd. At first glance the touchscreen channels the Cliq, but flipping it over reveals an exposed QWERTY keyboard. The phone opens like a revers...
- PhoneArena Team, PhoneArenaAlthough the Motorola BACKFLIP provides customers a glimpse into the power of Android, the experience is somewhat less tasteful as there are still some decisions that hinder it from truly becoming triumphant in making Android’s presence known on AT&T.
- Michael Oryl, MobileBurnFor me, the Motorola BACKFLIP is like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. The good doctor, which represents the top half of the device, offers a good touchscreen experience and a nice user interface that is heavily focused on social networking and messaging. I love it. Mr. Hyde's temperamental keyboard...
- Eric M. Zeman, Phone ScoopThe form factor is odd for no good reason at all, though the larger keyboard and solid design help a little bit. Only time will tell whether or not people take to the backwards clamshell design. The keyboard is strong, large, and the keys have good travel and feedback. The lack of any shape to...
Prices (Where to Buy)
Common Questions
We've got you covered! Download a free PDF copy of the Motorola BACKFLIP user manual here.
Motorola backs up the BACKFLIP with a 1 Year parts & labour warranty.
If your BACKFLIP has problems and is still within its warranty period, you could contact Motorola support or the retailer you purchased the phone from. You'll find Motorola's contact information here. If your phone is off warranty and needs repair for a physical problem such as a broken screen or bad battery, you should visit an authorized service centre or a local phone repair shop. You can also connect with others in The Informr Community Forum to find and share answers to questions.
Resources
Manuals / User Guides
- Motorola BACKFLIP Manual (PDF)
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