Android’s co-founder Andy Rubin is working on a premium handset, dubbed the Essential phone. The device is said to boast some of the most impressive specs and is touted to give Samsung and all other Android-powered smartphone makers a run for their money. While most of the handset’s specs and features are now known thanks to several leaks and speculation, the Essential smartphone was recently spotted at the FCC, which suggests its US release is in the cards.
Essential Phone spotted at FCC database
The Federal Communications Commission listing does not usually provide many details regarding the handsets other than the Wi-Fi and cellular data connectivity.
However, the FCC listing usually pops up close to the launch date of a device. This suggests that Andy Rubin’s Essential Phone may be nearing its reveal date. Also known as the Essential PH-1, the device boasts premium level specs and is expected to be priced accordingly.
According to the FCC database, the Essential PH-1 will be compatible with all the carriers in the United States, even those that offer CDMA connectivity. This may be some good news for fans that are looking forward to the device. The device itself has been confirmed to be a Sprint exclusive, but an unlocked variant may also be released at some point. The listing also shows that the device bears the model number A11.
Essential PH-1 specs
The handset sports a 5.71-inch display (2560 x 1312 pixels) with 504ppi pixel density. It will be powered by the Snapdragon 835 chipset along with an Adreno 540 GPU. It will boast 4 GB of RAM and 128 GB of onboard memory with no memory card slot. The handset will also be equipped with dual 13MP cameras on the rear and an 8MP camera on the front.
The device is also expected to house a 3,040 mAh battery.
Design wise, the smartphone boasts even lesser bezels than the Galaxy S8 handsets from Samsung. This in itself is a feat of achievement. Other than this, the Essential PH-1 is made up of a titanium body which said to give it a much better durability than the aluminum finish on most smartphones these days.
This indicates that the handset will not support wireless charging.
The handset is no stranger to controversies either. A lawsuit has been filed against the developers of the device by accessory maker Spigen over the name. The device is also yet to receive its IP rating, which will decide its water and dust resistant capabilities. The Essential PH-1 is expected to cost $699 upon release.
