If there is one handset that hardcore Android fans can pick instead of the upcoming Google Nexus 2016, it likely will be the Moto X 2016. Specs-wise, the device is expected to be at par with the best flagships out there and like its Nexus rival the next Moto X install will run on stock Android or at least its nearest native form.
Hardware specs
Even without confirmation from Google, the Nexus 2016 is believed to unbox having the mightiest processing chip in the Android realm - Snapdragon 820, courtesy of Qualcomm. And as the Galaxy S7 already supports with 4GB of RAM the same SD 820, the next Nexus should have the same minimum expectation.
The same goes for the Moto X 2016, which will power up relying on the combo of SD 820 and 4GB RAM though the latter could still be bumped up for good measures, according to Engadget.
One slight edge on Moto X's part is the microSD slot and a possible 128GB version that will offer more space storage, which on Nexus is somehow restricted.
On the camera department, the new Nexus is likely to match what Samsung has served with shooting hardware and software of the Galaxy S7, which is saying that Google is cooking up killer camera features for its 2016 signature phone.
And Lenovo-Motorola will be on the same tack for this year's Moto X. Nothing much is known for now on the soon-to-come Moto X camera system but it is safe to assume that its maker will surpass what were seen with the Moto X Style in 2015, which impressed camera shooting experts.
The build
Google has reportedly build tapped HTC to build two Nexus phone flavors that Android watchers say will largely take after the HTC 10 and previous works of the Taiwan-based device maker. That means the next Nexus will again scream of premium build like the Nexus 6P last year.
On one hand, the Moto X 2016 was rumored as early as last year to shift from its curvy finish to a flatter design with build material to be dominated by metal as shown in a leaked image published by MobiPicker.
Pure Android
On this aspect, it's practically level for both the Nexus 2016 and Moto X as the latter's maker has opted to run the flagship on near-stock Android, which promise bloat-free mobile device experience and consistent or up to date firmware support.
However, the Moto X still offers a few Motorola add-on apps that experts attest as not bloats but enhancements.
Release date and pricing
In terms of pricing model, the Nexus 2016 and Moto X 2016 are again in equal footing as the asking for both device are again seen to be buyer-friendly, likely starting at no more than $400 that is a killer deal considering the stuff that the devices are made off.
But the Moto X 2016 will get the advantage of an earlier release date as Engadget said that Lenovo plans to intro the handset in June with the commercial debut to follow shortly. It could be that solid details on the Nexus 2016 will start coming out right after the Google I/O 2016 this May but the rollout time is unlikely to happen anytime soon.