In the past a product's shape alterations would be hammered out by designers in a surface-modeling program, a tool that allows for easy curvedesign and concept change.
Any rational assessment of innovation would see these companies rise and fall as their existing products go up the maturity curve and their labs and design teams figure out which markets are ripe for which new products.
The 5.45- x 2.9- x 2-inch design most definitely avoids any hints of a curve, but the 4.3-inch WQVGA touchscreen display, miniSD card slot, and iPod connectivity help to alleviate the questionable styling.
On the surface, this daring Japanese-made smartphone darling cuts a dangerous figure, assuming a dual identity reinforced by the rigidity of its '80s-esque, hard-lined facial perimeter and the seductive curve of its aluminum back that all but screams contemporary industrial design.
Since the GE engine was begun later and not based on any prior design, its team is not as far down the learning curve and thus is likely to produce a less reliable engine.