I was under the impression that they start with Android and sorta roll their own OS from there on out. At least, that's what I would do if I were bold enough to

I was under the impression that they start with Android and sorta roll their own OS from there on out. At least, that's what I would do if I were bold enough to start a new hardware company with the likes of Apple controlling the sector. Software and hardware each built with the other in mind is how Apple is able to support updates for 4 years after you buy your iPhone. Manufacturers who use Android aren't able to do so because the two aren't coupled. Hopefully Essential does it right and take full ownership of their OS. That would be a real game changer.