The Essential Phone, see our full review[1], launched last fall for $699. Despite its stunning titanium and ceramic hardware, the camera and software had some issues and it did not sell well.
After two months at this price, the Essential Phone dropped to $499[2]. We've seen a number of updates to improve the camera and software experience, along with support for Android P beta, inclusion of Essential's HD earphones[3], a $99 value, and a three-month trial of Tidal Hi-Fi for this $499 price.
Amazon Prime Day specials
Amazon Prime Day started at 12 pm Pacific/3 pm Eastern on 16 July and runs for 36 hours. If you have ever shown interest in the Essential Phone or want a stunning backup phone, then I recommend you consider paying just $250 on Amazon[4], while supplies last. Update: It appears that the $250 phone-only Prime Day special price has expired, but don't fret just yet.
Check out all of the greatest Prime Day tech specials[5].
While the phone-only deal appears to be over, you can still buy all three colors (Halo Gray, Pure White, and Black Moon) with the 360 Camera for only $342.98. This is equivalent to a $250 Essential Phone and $92.98 for the 360 Camera (normally priced at $199 as an accessory). Thus, this $342.98 deal is still a $349.02 savings over the regular prices.
Essential is also holding an Amazon Prime Day contest[6] where you can win one of two Ocean Depths color Essential Phones. This color was my personal favorite and the one I switched to after buying a Pure White one late last year.
MQA audio experiences
In early June, I reported on