The Moto G23 has arrived as one of Motorola’s latest budget-friendly entries, positioning itself as a solid middle ground in a lineup that includes the G13, G53, and G73. While the G13 may technically win on the lowest price tag, the G23 offers a performance leap that arguably makes it the better value proposition. Currently, the device isn’t available in the US, and it remains unclear if it will ever cross the Atlantic. However, the model featuring 8GB of RAM is retailing in the UK for £199.99—roughly $240 when directly converted with tax—suggesting that if it does launch stateside, it will target the competitive sub-$250 market.
Hardware and Design
At this price point, cut corners are inevitable, yet the G23 pulls a few aces from its sleeve. The unboxing experience is surprisingly complete for 2023. You get a USB-A to USB-C cable, a SIM-ejector tool, typical documentation, and a 33W charging brick. While 33W isn’t flagship territory, it’s a respectable speed for the segment. Motorola also includes a silicone case that fits snugly, featuring sturdy sides and raised edges to protect the screen from rough surfaces.
The phone itself sports a plastic back with a mix of reflective and matte finishes, attempting to create depth with light. It comes in Matte Charcoal, Steel Blue, and Pearl White. While the color selection is somewhat safe—leaning towards a standard “business” vibe—the Steel Blue offers a nice blend of deep blue and dark pine.
Performance vs. Compromise
Under the hood, the G23 distinguishes itself from its little brother, the G13, largely due to the inclusion of 8GB of RAM. This memory bump significantly improves multitasking and seems to help the camera processing, even if the photographic results remain somewhat fickle. Users get a pure Android experience, a 90Hz refresh rate screen, and reliable biometrics, which are excellent features for the price. The 5,000mAh battery delivers impressive life, a staple we’ve come to expect from Motorola.
However, the budget nature shows in other areas. The haptics are unpleasant, there is no 5G support, and the camera struggles with consistency. Despite these drawbacks, the inclusion of NFC is a welcome addition often missing in this bracket.
The Software Update Controversy
While the hardware offers solid value, potential buyers should be wary of the software longevity. Motorola faces criticism for offering only two years of software updates for some of its new budget devices. This policy stands in stark contrast to the EU’s new Eco-design regulation, which stipulates a support period of five years to reduce electronic waste.
Recent reports suggest Motorola may be leveraging a linguistic ambiguity in the EU directive to justify this shorter lifespan. The controversy stems from a translation discrepancy. The English version of the regulation contains a conditional phrasing: manufacturers must provide updates for five years if they provide security or feature updates. This “if” clause has led some interpreters, and reportedly Motorola, to believe there is no absolute obligation to release updates—only that if they do, they must remain available for that duration.
Lost in Translation
This potential loophole seems less viable when looking at other language versions of the same law. The German text, for instance, is far more explicit, stating that updates must be made available for a minimum of five years, without the conditional “if” found in the English text. Since all language versions of EU laws have equal standing, companies cannot simply cherry-pick the translation that suits their bottom line.
Legal experts suggest that if challenged, the European Court of Justice would likely rule based on the intent of the law—environmental sustainability—rather than a grammatical quirk in the English translation. Until this is resolved, the Moto G23 remains a device with capable hardware potentially hamstrung by a limited software lifespan.
