Exploring Essential's Unreleased 'Gem' Smartphone: A Detailed Hands-On Review [Video]

Tech & AI | July 15, 2024, 5:54 p.m.

In 2020, Essential, known for their only smartphone launch, the PH-1, faced closure. However, plans for a second device called "Gem" surfaced, showcasing a unique concept with a tall, narrow display and premium hardware. Although it never made it to the market due to Essential's shutdown, a software engineer, Rob Wainwright, managed to purchase and explore the Essential "Gem." Wainwright's YouTube video revealed the device's sleek design, OLED display, and customized homescreen with app integrations. The device, powered by a Snapdragon 730 and running Android 10, displayed a high-resolution screen with smooth rotation functionality. Surprisingly, the device also appeared as "Essential PH-2" in the app specs. Despite its unavailability for public purchase, the presence of these rare devices on eBay showcases their continued functionality and unique features, capturing tech enthusiast's attention.