Posted 9/17/2023, 4:00:00 PM

Essential Phone's Premium Materials from 2017 Still Beat iPhone 15 Pro, While Google and Apple Copy Android Features

The Essential Phone from 2017 had premium titanium and ceramic design that was ahead of its time, even beating the new iPhone 15 Pro's titanium frame.
The Essential Phone's polished titanium edges resisted fingerprints better than the iPhone 15 Pro's matte titanium based on hands-on impressions.
Essential Phone is now discontinued after just one device, but its materials could inspire future premium Android phones.
Google updated several key apps this week like Messages, Camera, and Find My Device, hinting at future updates.
Apple Watch's new Double Tap gesture already exists on Samsung's Galaxy Watch, showing Apple copying Android features.

9to5google.com

Relevant topic timeline:

9/6/2023

iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Pro Release Problems Hit Apple’s New iPhones

Apple is facing significant production issues with the camera sensors and titanium chassis for the iPhone 15 models, which may impact availability, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Additionally, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is experiencing delays in manufacturing, potentially causing problems for early upgraders.

9/8/2023

iPhone 15 Pro Models to Get Titanium Design, All Models Upgraded with Better Cameras and Battery Life

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9/8/2023

Apple to Reveal iPhone 15 with New Design and USB-C at Sept. 12 Event

Apple is set to announce new iPhone models, including the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max, during its upcoming keynote, with rumors suggesting the use of titanium frames for the "Pro" models and the adoption of a USB-C port to comply with EU regulations. Additionally, there may be a new Apple Watch and a mention of the Vision Pro VR headset. Livestreams of the event will be available on YouTube, Apple TV, and the Apple Events section of the website.

9/9/2023

iPhone 15 Pro Models To Be Lighter with New Titanium Alloy Frame, While Standard iPhone 15 Unchanged

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9/17/2023

Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra to Bring Titanium Design and Major Camera Upgrades

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9/21/2023

Apple's iPhone 15 Lacks Custom Chip After Qualcomm Deal, Overheating Issues

Apple launched the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro without a silicon chip they spent years developing due to obstacles mainly of their own making.

9/22/2023

iPhone 15 Pro's Rounded Titanium Edges May Be Less Durable Than iPhone 14 Pro in Drop Tests

The iPhone 15 Pro's rounded titanium edges do not provide better drop test durability compared to the iPhone 14 Pro's flat stainless band, as impact is spread into the front and back glass, causing spiderwebbing cracks.

9/21/2023

Apple Addresses Fingerprint Smudges on iPhone 15 Pro Frame Ahead of Launch

The titanium frame on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max may temporarily change color due to fingerprints, but Apple assures customers that this can be easily remedied by wiping the device with a cloth.