Essential, the new smartphone company founded by Android operating system creator Andy Rubin, is planning to ship its first pre-ordered flagship smartphones soon. The general launch date for the Essential Phone remains unknown, despite months of publicity and continued intrigue among Silicon Valley’s gadget-loving circles. Recently, Essential’s exclusive carrier Sprint announced it will open Phone pre-orders on its own website and stores. Essential opened up pre-orders on its website in May when the product was first unveiled.