Motorola has expanded its popular G-series lineup with the launch of the Moto G96 5G in India. Positioned in the mid-range category, the Moto G96 5G is designed to combine stylish looks, durable build, and reliable performance at an accessible price. The launch further strengthens Motorola’s presence in India, where buyers are actively looking for value-packed 5G smartphones under ₹20,000.
Price and Availability
The Moto G96 5G launched in India on 9 July 2025.
- The 8 GB RAM + 128 GB storage model is priced at ₹15,999.
- There is also an 8 GB + 256 GB storage variant for buyers who need more space.
The phone is available through Motorola’s online store, Flipkart, and leading retail outlets across India. Customers can also take advantage of bank offers and exchange discounts during sale events.
Design and Build Quality
Motorola has paid special attention to design with the Moto G96 5G. The device sports a slim profile of 7.93 mm and weighs about 178 grams, making it comfortable to handle despite its large battery.
The back panel comes in vegan leather finishes in Pantone-inspired shades like Ashleigh Blue, Cattleya Orchid, Greener Pastures, and Dresden Blue, giving it a premium look. The build includes Gorilla Glass 5 protection on the front, offering resistance against scratches.
What adds to its durability is the IP68 water and dust resistance rating, which is uncommon in this segment. This allows the device to survive accidental splashes, rain, or even short submersion in water.
Display Experience
The Moto G96 5G features a 6.67-inch pOLED curved display with Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2400 pixels). It supports a 144 Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals for gaming, browsing, and scrolling.
Key highlights of the display include:
- Peak brightness of 1600 nits, making it readable even under bright sunlight.
- HDR10+ certification for enhanced contrast and colour accuracy.
- Slim bezels and curved edges that provide an immersive viewing experience.
For multimedia lovers, this display ensures sharp, vivid, and fluid visuals, making it a strong selling point at this price range.
Performance and Hardware
Under the hood, the Moto G96 5G runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset, a 4 nm octa-core processor optimized for efficiency and speed. The chipset is paired with 8 GB RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking.
Buyers can choose between 128 GB and 256 GB storage options, though the device does not appear to support expandable storage.
The processor is capable of handling demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, and streaming with ease. Coupled with a vapour chamber cooling system, the phone can maintain stable performance even during longer gaming sessions.
Cameras: Focus on Versatility
Motorola has equipped the Moto G96 5G with a versatile camera setup.
- Rear Cameras:
- 50 MP primary sensor with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) for sharper and more stable shots.
- 8 MP ultra-wide lens, doubling as a depth sensor for better versatility.
- Front Camera:
- 32 MP selfie shooter, designed to deliver high-quality self-portraits and video calls.
The main sensor captures detailed images in daylight and improves low-light photography with the help of OIS. The 8 MP ultra-wide lens makes group photos and landscape shots easier, though its low-light performance is modest compared to the primary lens. The 32 MP front camera ensures social media-ready selfies and clear video calls.
For video recording, the device supports Full HD and 4K options, with AI-driven enhancements to reduce shake and noise.
Battery and Charging
One of the strengths of the Moto G96 5G is its 5500 mAh battery, which comfortably lasts a full day under heavy use or up to two days with moderate usage.
It supports 33 W TurboPower fast charging, which can recharge the phone to about 50% in just under 30 minutes. While this charging speed is decent, it lags behind some competitors that offer 45 W or even 67 W charging in the same price bracket.
Software and Updates
The Moto G96 5G runs on Android 15 out of the box with Motorola’s near-stock UI. This clean interface comes with minimal bloatware, offering a smoother experience compared to many custom UIs in the market.
Motorola is expected to provide at least two years of Android OS upgrades and three years of security updates, aligning with its typical policy for G-series devices. While this is respectable, it falls short of brands that now promise up to five or six years of updates.
Connectivity and Other Features
- 5G Connectivity: Supports multiple 5G bands with SA/NSA dual-mode.
- Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.4 for faster wireless connections.
- Dual SIM support with VoLTE and VoWiFi.
- Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos for immersive sound.
- In-display fingerprint sensor and face unlock for security.
The device also features Moto gestures, such as the iconic chop-to-flashlight and twist-to-camera shortcuts, adding to the user experience.
Pros of Moto G96 5G
- Stylish design with vegan leather finishes and Gorilla Glass 5 protection
- Slim and lightweight profile at just 178 g
- IP68 water and dust resistance
- 6.67-inch pOLED curved display with 144 Hz refresh rate
- Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 delivers smooth performance
- 50 MP OIS camera ensures sharper photos
- Large 5500 mAh battery with decent charging speed
- Clean Android 15 experience with minimal bloatware
Cons of Moto G96 5G
- Charging limited to 33 W; slower than some rivals
- Ultra-wide lens is basic with only 8 MP resolution
- No expandable storage option confirmed
- Software update policy is shorter than leading competitors
Comparison in the Segment
The Moto G96 5G competes with devices like the Realme 12x 5G, iQOO Z10R, and Samsung Galaxy M55. While rivals may offer faster charging or additional cameras, the G96 distinguishes itself with its 144 Hz pOLED curved display, IP68 durability, and lightweight design.
For buyers who prioritise display quality and build resilience, the Moto G96 5G stands out as a compelling option in its category.
Final Verdict
The Moto G96 5G is a well-rounded mid-range smartphone that delivers on design, display, performance, and durability. With its ₹15,999 starting price, it appeals to buyers seeking a premium-looking device with reliable performance without crossing into flagship territory. Moto G96 is available on Flipkart.
Its curved 144 Hz pOLED display and IP68 protection make it unique among similarly priced competitors, while the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 ensures smooth multitasking. However, buyers should weigh the relatively slower charging speed and modest ultra-wide camera before making a decision.
For those comparing phones in this segment, it’s worth looking at other recent launches too. The Lava Shark 5G, Launched in India, remains one of the most affordable 5G options, while the Vivo V50 Elite Edition delivers premium features and bundled extras at a higher price point.
Looking ahead, buyers interested in premium foldable innovation should keep an eye on the upcoming Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold, which is expected to challenge Samsung’s dominance with AI features and IP68 durability.
In short, the Moto G96 5G strengthens Motorola’s mid-range portfolio and sits comfortably between ultra-budget 5G phones and premium flagships, offering a balanced mix of value and style.
