It was at the end of May when Android co-founder Andy Rubin"s Essential showed off its first product, the PH-1. The handset offered a near bezel-less display and also had the ability to accept accessories via its unique pogo pins.
After Rubin proclaimed that it would arrive within "30 days or so", the phone was a no-show, leaving many to believe that the startup had bitten off a little more than it could chew.
In the past few weeks, top executives have left the firm, leaving many to create their own theories about what might be happening within the company. Luckily, the tide seemed to slightly turn when Rubin sent out a message to supporters, letting them know that the handset would arrive within a few weeks.
Although we heard something similar about its launch prior, it appears that things might actually be solidifying as Best Buy now has the smartphone on its website. There currently isn"t a launch date, but the retail chain does have the Sprint version and unlocked version listed as products that it will be carrying. The Sprint variant is listed for $749.99, while the unlocked version is listed for $699.99. You can also reserve the handset from Essential directly for $699 and take advantage of the modular 360 camera for an additional $50.
Source: Best Buy via Android Police