Early last month, I had the opportunity to acquire my first Android phone since the 2009 Motorola Droid: the Essential Phone. I got it in exchange for writing an Amazon review and a future tax liability, but it was more than a fair trade. I am impressed with the hardware, disappointed with the camera, and, honestly, not impressed enough with the Android ecosystem to switch from my iPhone 7.

I am making it a point to use it every day, though, mostly to satisfy my curiosity about Android, and partly because it’s a beautiful peace of hardware that feels great in the hand. While no one needs two smartphones, getting this one has satisfied my curiosity about modern Android software and “bezel-less” phone hardware.

I plan to write more about my thoughts on Android, and about what I learned from my experience with the Essential Phone, in the near future.