Android software creator unveils 'Essential' phone

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.