Andy Rubin, the “Father of Android” has recently released a smartphone, dubbed as the Essential Phone which was recently launched in the US market. The phone is special because it is from the person who is the creator of Android, which is the operating system of a majority of the smartphones and has been accepted by the consumers all over the world in a significant manner. So, let’s see what this smartphone has to offer and can it compete against the flagships of key manufacturers.
Here is our list of things we likes and disliked about the recently revealed Essential Phone.
Things We Like
Display
We have seen a vivid range of big screens but, Essential Phone has taken this aspect in a slightly different manner. This is evident from the edge-to-edge display that outclasses the curved display of even the Samsung Galaxy S8. The icons of the phone fill the middle space but fail to efficiently cover the bottom of the phone. But, when you have the whole front as a display then you don’t need to save that bit space left by icons. So, the 5.7-inch QHD display is not only big, it is efficient and impressive as well.
Host Of Accessories
We have seen Moto trying its hands to offer a wide range of accessories compatible with its smartphones but, here, Essential has tried to transform the way. The magnetic connector, wireless data transfer and a 360-degree camera that can easily tip on the top of the phone are something really notable. The pogo pins of the phone makes way for the accessories and it might even replace the USB-C port in near future.
Dual Camera Setup
We have seen a number of smartphone makers trying their hands on offering a dual camera setup to give better imaging experience with their smartphones. But, Essential has made a difference here. Where in most of the dual-camera setup the secondary lens is used for telephoto or bokeh, the Essential uses it as a monochrome sensor. This means that the secondary lens will be able to take more light over a traditional color camera. This will result in better low-light shots. Even the front camera is an 8MP selfie shooter with the capability of capturing 4K video.
Processor
The device comes with the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor. It is a beast in terms of performance and users will not face any issue with regards to performance. The device comes with Adreno 540 GPU, clubbed with 6 GB RAM and 128 GB of internal storage.
Build Quality
Though the design of the Essential phone reflects the delicacy and elegance but, it is not so. According to Andy Rubin, the phone’s body is evolved from titanium and ceramic, which can easily withstand a drop test.
Things We Dislike
Missing 3.5mm Audio Jack
We have missed this audio jack in iPhone 7 and the same has been adopted by the creator of Essential. This means that the users have to carry additional connectors to use wired earphones. But, there is a marginal possibility that the magnetic accessory port might be compatible to other audio accessories.
Recommended: Essential Phone Launched With 5.7″ QHD Bezel-Less Display, SD 835
Availability
Most of the consumers love Android and would love to try the smartphone evolved by the creator of Android. For now, the smartphone is available only in the US market at a price tag of $699 (Rs 46,000 approximately). Considering the response from the consumers, the smartphone might enter other markets as well.
Price
The Essential Phone has been priced at $699. Users will have to pay another $150 if they want to get the 360-degree camera. The device will compete with the likes of OnePlus 5, which will be priced competitively. On the whole, the price is definitely on the higher side especially when you consider that this is a new company with no track record as to the support and after sales service. Essentially, it is a gamble that not many people would like to take.
Conclusion
With Qualcomm 835 coupled to a 4GB RAM, performance will not be an issue for the users. The camera capabilities and impressive display only put things in the favor of the smartphone. It is simple yet impressive at the same time which bears the best of the Android experience as it is coming straight from the creator of Android. So, it will be interesting to see how it takes on the other smartphones persisting in the market. Overall, the smartphone looks competent and stylish to cater to a range of requirements of the consumers.
