The Notch Debate: Was Android Copying Apple or Setting Trends?

When discussing smartphone designs, the term 'notch' often comes up. However, the general perception is largely centered around the idea that Android manufacturers were copying Apple's design rather than recognizing an earlier influencer in the form of the Essential Phone. This article delves into the history of notches in smartphone designs and provides a more nuanced perspective on why the Essential Phone's design choices did not receive the recognition they deserved.

Evolution of Notch Designs in Smartphones

One might assume that the concept of a notch in smartphones is a new phenomenon. But the reality is far from that. The 'notch' idea was first introduced in 2015 with the LG V10. LG referred to it as a 'second screen,' an area to the right of the front camera which prevented hacking off the top left corner of a normal display. Although centered and tiny, this early design paved the way for more significant advancements. Around the same time, LG also filed patents for a center-notch design, which they could have implemented if needed.

The First Notch Phone: Sharp Aquos S2?

A less known fact is that the first phones to market with a center-notch design were not the Essential Phone. In fact, Sharp's Aquos S2 was the first to feature a center-notch before the Essential Phone. Although the Essential Phone was announced first, it wasn't shipped in the USA, making the Sharp Aquos S2 a significant first mover in this aspect of smartphone design.

Understanding the Timeline

Notably, Essential's tiny notch was first revealed by Andy Rubin in March 2017. Despite the early announcement, Apple's advanced lead times and marketing muscle meant that their implementation of the notch in the iPhone X gained significant media attention and became a major trendsetter in the smartphone industry. The Essential Phone, while technically the first to market, did not receive the same level of recognition due to the timing and branding issues.

The Role of Apple and Essential

It's essential to recognize that the adoption of notched designs in smartphones became widely accepted because of Apple's massive sales and brand influence. When Apple introduced the iPhone X, the notch became a feature that consumers and manufacturers alike considered necessary. This phenomenon reflects how design elements can become popular based on the visibility and impact of major brands, even if those elements existed earlier in less recognized forms.

Final Thoughts on the Notch

The presence of a notch in smartphones is not just a feature, but a practical necessity that addresses the demand for better camera placement, facial recognition, and touch sensitivity. While Apple's implementation of the notch was large and possibly unnecessary, it did have the effect of popularizing the design. Moving forward, it's possible that pop-up cameras will replace notches entirely, as demonstrated by companies like Essential and others.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the Essential Phone did innovate with the notch design, Apple's implementation and marketing strategy played a crucial role in popularizing the design. This highlights the importance of market dynamics, brand influence, and timing in shaping consumer perceptions and industry trends.