Essential Phone 2 Reportedly Canceled, Rubin Looking to Sell

The Essential Phone was undoubtedly one of the most underrated phones of 2018. It launched with buggy software and camera problems, but the company worked diligently to push out updates. Many Android enthusiasts were anxiously waiting for the Essential 2 release later this summer. Unfortunately, news today from Bloomberg indicates that Essential will not release a phone in 2018.

According to reports, Essential has hired Credit Suisse Group AG to advise them on the viability of selling the company. There are indications that at least one party is interested in purchasing the smartphone startup.

For Android fans, this means that the Essential Phone 2 has been canceled indefinitely. In addition, it leaves some of the other Essential products in limbo. The company was slated to bring out their smart home hub later this year. Our biggest concern is whether Essential will continue to push out software updates for the PH-1, and how quickly they will do so.

There is some hope that whoever buys Essential will continue product development, as all of the patents are rumored to be included in any sale. In addition, Essential could easily decide against the sale, as it is not yet finalized. For the time being, this is very disappointing news for all fans of Essential and Android in general. Let us know in the comments what you think about Essential getting out of the smartphone game — was this expected?

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Cover image by Jeff Springer/Gadget Hacks