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Yesterday, Andy Rubin’s new venture announced its first smartphone, the Essential Phone. On the device’s listing page, it’s mentioned that it is carrier unlocked, leaving you to try and hope that it will work with the 4 major US carriers.
Then, the folks at The Verge learned more regarding whether carriers will officially support the device or if we’ll be left looking elsewhere. For the most part, it seems that Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and Sprint will indeed support the Essential Phone once released. The fuzzy part comes when it comes to the different features offered by each carrier.
Starting off with Verizon, initial statements suggested that the device would work with its network, but “we can’t promise the same experience and quality of service as devices that have been tested and approved for use on our network.” However, earlier today, another Verizon representative stated that the carrier is working with Essential to ensure the best experience possible.
The other CDMA option in the US, Sprint also confirmed that the device “will operate on our network”. However, Sprint also stated that there would be more information forthcoming “at a later date”, so you can take that how you want to.
Unsurprisingly, T-Mobile and AT&T both stated that if the Essential Phone contains the necessary network bands, then it will be compatible. T-Mobile also stated that they are excited for customers to use the new device on their network, but it’s likely that Big Magenta won’t be selling the Essential Phone in stores.
We’re hoping that Essential and these carriers can work together to make the Essential Phone easily available for those who aren’t looking to drop $700.
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