Carl Pei’s Nothing brand has been quietly expanding its horizons. 9to5Google I heard that Android co-creator Andy Rubin transferred the defunct Essential brand to the Pei firm on January 6, with the transfer starting at the UK Intellectual Property Office on November 11, 2020.
The move gives Nothing the full use of trademarks, the logo and other aspects of the Essential brand. It is not certain whether this translates to patented designs or includes products. Nothing is prepared to discuss its first projects as of February 16.
We do not ask for anything to comment on the transfer.
Read More: These would be the next Essential phones
This does not necessarily mean that Nothing will produce a sequel for Essential Phone. Part of Essential’s former team left to work on privacy-oriented products at Out of Sight, Out of Mind. Even if Pei’s startup has access to Essential’s since-canceled product line, it wouldn’t necessarily have the resources to continue where the company left off.
The Essential brand is also not very prestigious. Although Essential Phone has done reasonably well, it has had a hard time selling. Nor did the allegations of sex scandal against Andy Rubin of his time at Google help the brand’s reputation.
If that includes any patents, however, it can provide clues to Nothing’s final plans. The newcomer is expected to focus on smart devices, and Essential’s technology (such as its legendary AI device or home hub) can provide an advantage. And if Nothing ventures on the phones, it can borrow design tips or resources without worrying about patent disputes or licensing costs.