Android software creator unveils 'Essential' phone

San Francisco : A creator of the Android software powering smartphones around the world steps into the hardware market with a handset that promises to tackle the clutter, complexity and rapid obsolescence of current devices.

Andy Rubin said in an online post that he is issuing a high-quality phone called Essential that includes accessories such as a 360-camera that can be attached magnetically.

"For all the good Android has done to help bring technology to nearly everyone, it has also helped create this weird new world where people are forced to fight with the very technology that was supposed to simplify their lives," he said.

The Essential smartphones will first be released in the United States, where they can be reserved at the website www.essential.com for $699. The 360-camera can be ordered for an additional $50.

Rubin expects Essential phones, which are powered by Android software, to begin shipping in about 30 days.