Leaked image and handset roadmap suggest return of Moto X in 2017

Motorola fans have been given a glimpse of what next year's lineup of handsets could include from the Lenovo-owned brand, including a potential return of the Moto X.

Two separate leaks this week suggest that the Moto X could make a return to the range, and that other handsets will include the Moto G, M, Z, C and E. Since Lenovo's purchase of Motorola in 2015, it's taken general control of the smartphone manufacturing process, but will lead the way on the Moto E, C, X and M for 2017. The Moto Z and Moto G will still be fully designed by the Motorola unit within the company.

A leaked image online also offers a glimpse of what is likely to be the 2017 Moto X, complete with full-metal chassis and a large looking gap for the camera sensor. It'll also have a front-mounted fingerprint sensor, according to TechDroider.

There's no confirmation that it is indeed the 2017 Moto X, but it does look similar to images of the 2016 Moto X that surfaced online at the start of the year, but without the holes that featured on the rear of those earlier leaks.

While there are no specs to pore over yet, and the first impressions of the handset are one aiming at a 'premium' feeling device, Lenovo will need to work hard to simplify its branding and exactly how it plans to move forward in various markets around the world. For example, while the upcoming Moto M is branded as a Motorola, leaked images of the packaging appear to show Lenovo branding, which is likely to end up confusing for potential purchasers.