New Moto X could bring 16MP camera with 4K recording, optical image stabilization

The 2014 Moto X's camera let it down. Photo: Killian Bell/Cult of Android

The 2014 Moto X’s camera let it down. Photo: Killian Bell/Cult of Android

Leaked specifications for a third-generation Moto X suggest Motorola will address one of the biggest complaints fans had with the existing model — its camera. The new device is expected to have a 16-megapixel rear-facing camera with all the features you’d expect from a high-end phone.

That includes 4K video recording at 30 frames-per-second, 1080p recording at up to 120 frames-per-second, and 720p recording at up 240 frames-per-second. The shooter will also boast optical image stabilization so that you get steady video even with the shakiest of hands.

Previous leaks have also promised “Clear Pixel” technology. This sounds exciting, but we should remember that this is a feature already included in previous Moto X handsets. Motorola needs to ensure that “Clear Pixel” actually means something this time around.

Last year’s Moto X was a fantastic device — one of the best Android smartphones of 2014 — but its rear-facing camera let it down. Motorola cannot afford to let that happen again when rivals like Samsung and LG are offering spectacular shooters that are better than anything we’ve had on Android before.

The new Moto X's camera specs, according to "insider sources." Photo: STJS Gadgets

The new Moto X’s camera specs, according to “insider sources.” Photo: STJS Gadgets

Here are the rest of the Moto X’s specifications, according to the same source:

  • 5.2-inch AMOLED display with Quad HD resolution
  • 64-bit Snapdragon 808 processor
  • 4GB RAM
  • 32GB or 64GB of storage
  • 3,280mAh battery
  • Android 5.1.1 Lollipop

We should note, however, that these specifications were published by STJS Gadgets Portal — a site we’re not all that familiar with — that just cites “insider sources.” It’s probably best we take them with a pinch of salt until they’re confirmed by Motorola, then.

But these certainly look like plausible specifications for a what could be the best Moto X to date.