Google added a Google Play Edition of Motorola’s Moto G to its online Play Store on Tuesday. The Play Edition of the Moto G runs an unmodified version of Android 4.4 (KitKat) and receives software updates faster than non-Play Edition devices.
The phone is available in the U.S. only (like other Play devices) and costs the same $179.99 for an 8GB model or $199.99 for a 16GB model as the standard version. So if you’re planning to pick up an unlocked Moto G, this is definitely the way to go; you’re basically getting the same exact phone except you’re guaranteed to receive software updates in a more timely manner. The unlocked GSM model will work on AT&T, T-Mobile and other GSM-based carriers.
There’s no CDMA version of the phone available directly from Google. For that you’ll have to buy the phone from a carrier like Boost Mobile or Verizon Wireless. You won’t get a Google Play Edition, but the good news is that Boost sells the phone for $129.99 and Verizon sells it for $99.99, both without a contract. Just keep in mind that all versions of the Moto G — CDMA or GSM — are 3G only.

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