Low priced version of the Motorola Moto X coming before 2013 ends

A low-priced version of the just introduced Motorola Moto X is coming to emerging markets later this year.  Designed for emerging markets where customers don't buy smartphones with a subsidized contract, the low-priced Moto X will also be packaged for U.S. pre-paid carriers where customers generally pay full price for their phone.

A version of the Motorola Moto X priced for the emerging markets would have to go up against entry-level models like the Nokia Lumia 520.  While this Windows Phone 8 flavored handset has enough features and functionality to keep demand for it high, no less than Motorola Mobility CEO Dennis Woodside said that "The experience of devices you can get for less than $200 is subpar right now, we want everyone to have access to affordable smartphones." Obviously, owners of the Nokia Lunia 520 and its T-Mobile branded twin, the Nokia Lumia 521, would disagree.

Woodside also commented on U.S. pre-paid customers, who are buying 2 to 3 year old technology so that they can afford to have a smartphone on a pre-paid plan. That could be one of the reasons why the Nokia Lumia 520 and Lumia 521 are selling like hotcakes. Both models offer some of the current smartphone technology at a very affordable price. While he probably didn't mean to, the Motorola executive gave a good reason why Apple is rumored to be producing a low-cost model called the Apple iPhone 5C. "Buying a new iPhone at full price for a prepaid service costs quite a bit of money, especially families who are buying devices for multiple people," stated the CEO.

Woodside wouldn't detail what features we might see in a low-cost Motorola Moto X, but such a device could be just months away.

source: CNET