March 16, 2026, 1:48 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
Smartphones usually come from well-known tech companies like Apple, Samsung, or Google. However, there are devices whose brand names actually stand for something entirely different.
From battery manufacturers to car makers to guitar amplifiers–some companies are known for something entirely different but have also ventured into the mobile phone market. The origin stories are as varied as the products themselves.
Energizer built a smartphone with an 18,000-mAh battery
Energizer is primarily known for batteries. The brand name belongs to the Eveready Battery Company, but for smartphones, it is used by the French company Avenir Telecom. In addition to accessories, the company also launched basic phones and Android smartphones. In 2019, the Energizer P18K Pop drew attention with its massive 18,000-mAh battery. The device was extremely thick and was supposed to last several days, but it ultimately never hit the market.
Polestar smartphone as a complement to the electric car
The electric car manufacturer Polestar offers its own smartphone in China. It is developed by Meizu, a company within the Geely Group, which also includes Polestar and Volvo. The device can be optionally ordered with the Polestar 4 and is designed to integrate closely with the vehicle. The goal is a seamless connection between car and smartphone. The model is not yet available in Europe.
Porsche Design refines Huawei models
Porsche Design is much more than just a design department for sports cars. The company collaborated with Huawei, among others, and launched special models like the Mate 20 RS Porsche Design. The devices featured premium materials like leather on the back and a customized design. Technically, they were largely based on existing Huawei models but were visually and sometimes in terms of features enhanced.
Marshall focused on music
Marshall is known for guitar amplifiers and speakers. In 2015, the Marshall London, an Android smartphone, was released, clearly targeting music fans. It offered stereo front speakers, two headphone jacks, and a dedicated volume wheel. Apart from the audio features, the technology was mid-range. The device remained a niche product.
Razer brought gaming to the smartphone
Razer started as a manufacturer of gaming accessories and acquired the startup Nextbit in 2017. Shortly thereafter, the first Razer Phone was released. With a 120-hertz display and powerful hardware, the smartphone was specifically aimed at gamers. Hertz describes the refresh rate of the display. A higher value ensures smoother movements. Razer aimed to meaningfully expand its gaming ecosystem with it.
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CAT stands for rugged phones
Caterpillar is primarily known for construction machinery. However, under the CAT brand, there are also rugged outdoor smartphones. The devices feature thick casings, are IP68-rated for dust and water resistance, and are sometimes equipped with thermal imaging cameras. The smartphones are developed by partner companies, with CAT providing the brand and image for tough use.
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Why brands keep trying smartphones
As varied as the examples are, the motivation behind them is often similar. Having their own smartphone strengthens the brand image, appeals to existing fans, and expands the ecosystem. For car manufacturers, it’s about connectivity with the vehicle; for music or gaming brands, it’s a logical extension of their core business. Such experiments are rarely truly successful.