Motorola StarTAC – First Flip Phone Review

The Motorola StarTAC was launched in 1996 and is considered the first flip phone in history. An icon of style and innovation that marked an era.

Design and Dimensions

The StarTAC was incredibly compact for its time: 94 x 55 x 19 mm, 88 grams. Its metal body (standard version) or carbon (special editions) made it robust and elegant.

Technical Specifications

• Monochrome LCD display (later color in subsequent models)
• 500 mAh Li-Ion battery – up to 2 days of battery life
• Memory for 100 contacts
• Polyphonic ringtone (monophonic initially)
• External antenna (fixed or retractable depending on the version)
• Side button for quick power on/off

Most Sought-After Versions

• StarTAC 70 – first version, very rare
• StarTAC 75 – with vibration and night profile
• StarTAC 85 – color display, WAP
• StarTAC 130 – latest generation, lighter

Why Buy a Motorola StarTAC Today?

• Collecting: a piece of telecommunications history.
• Timeless design: still admired today.
• Investment: prices are rising (new or used functional units with a box are worth €150-1000).

📞 Looking for an original, tested Motorola StarTAC? Discover our vintage Motorola selection.