📱 The Worst Phone Brands You’ve Probably Never Heard Of [2024]

Have you ever looked at a phone and thought, “What were they thinking?” 😜 We’ve all been there! The phone industry is full of surprising flops, and in the quest for the next big hit, some companies forget all about the most important factor: the name. This post dives deep into the world of confusing branding, clunky names, and phone releases that never quite lived up to their promise. Get ready for a wild ride as we uncover some of the worst-named phones of all time – and the marketing decisions that led them to obscurity. But wait, there’s more! We’re also going to expose the brands that consistently miss the mark when it comes to naming their phones.

Quick Answer

The worst phone brands are those that have repeatedly chosen names that are:

• Confusing: ZTE and HTC are notorious for their overly complex or nonsensical naming schemes, forcing you to memorize strange combinations.
• Unmemorable: You’ve probably never heard of some of these brands: Changhong, Yezz, and Panasonic Eluga, because their lackluster names weren’t able to stick in your mind.
• Uninspired: LG has struggled with a string of forgettable names, including the “ThinQ” branding, which is about as exciting as reading a label on a plastic container of yogurt. 😂

👉 Shop for alternative brands: Apple | Samsung | Google Pixel | OnePlus

Table of Contents

1. Quick Tips and Facts
2. The Rise and Fall of Phone Brands: A History of Missed Opportunities
3. What’s in a Phone Name Anyway? 🤔
4. Lenovo Phab 2 Pro
5. Royole FlexPai
6. iPhone XS
7. Anything ‘ThinQ’
8. Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge+
9. Changhong H2
10. Kodak Ektra
11. Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge Olympic Games Limited Edition
12. OnePlus One, OnePlus 2, OnePlus 3…
13. ZTE Axon 7
14. BlackBerry Priv
15. LG K8 V
16. Yezz Billy 4.7
17. Motorola Moto G
18. ZTE Iconic Phablet
19. Panasonic Eluga
20. HTC Windows Phone 8X
21. HP Pre 3
22. Samsung Galaxy S II, Epic 4G Touch
23. HTC ChaCha and HTC Salsa
24. LG Optimus Vu
25. Casio G’zOne… anything
26. Samsung 🙂
27. Samsung Messager
28. Cricket MSGM8 and TXTM8
29. LG Optimus Black
30. HTC One
31. LG Chocolate
32. Motorola Citrus
33. LG Fusic
34. More Galleries
35. Conclusion
36. Recommended Links
37. FAQ
38. Reference Links

Quick Tips and Facts

Let’s face it: you’ve probably come across a phone name that made you think, “What were they thinking?” 🤪. There’s a reason phones with great features end up in the “flop” category. Bad names are bad for business! Companies sometimes choose names that are confusing, misleading, or just plain awkward. This can lead to lower sales and a negative reputation. But have you ever wondered why?

Here are some of the top reasons why phone brands choose bad names:

• They’re trying to be “unique”. Unfortunately, that uniqueness often comes at the cost of memorability. Have you ever heard of the Yezz Billy 4.7? 😂
• They’re trying to appeal to a specific demographic. This can backfire, as the name might alienate other potential buyers. For instance, the Cricket MSGM8 and TXTM8 were clearly targeted toward the texting crowd, but did they succeed?
• They just don’t care. Sometimes brands are so focused on the technology that they forget about the marketing.

But hey, we’re here to help you navigate the jungle of phone names! 🦁 Let’s dive into some of the most notorious and questionable phone names (and a few surprisingly good ones), and uncover how they impacted the brands behind them.

The Rise and Fall of Phone Brands: A History of Missed Opportunities

Remember when flip phones were the coolest thing on the planet? 📱 Or when Nokia ruled the mobile landscape? The mobile phone industry has changed drastically over the years, and so have the names of the phones themselves.

In the early days, phone names were often simple and descriptive, like the Nokia 3310 or the Motorola Razr. These names effectively communicated what the phone was about. But as smartphone technology advanced, companies started to experiment with more creative and complex names. This experiment led to some hits, and… well… some very big misses.

Remember Samsung’s infamous “Samsung Messager”? 🤨 This phone, released in 2010, certainly didn’t live up to its name! 😩 With a confusing name and lackluster features, it became evident that a good phone name is not just about being clever or catchy. It’s got to be memorable.

What’s in a Phone Name Anyway? 🤔

A well-chosen name can be a powerful tool for a brand. It can communicate the phone’s features, convey emotions, and even create buzz. Think about it: “iPhone” has become synonymous with cutting-edge technology.

So, what makes a good phone name? Here are some key attributes:

• Memorable: You should be able to remember it easily, even a few years later. The iPhone X has proven this concept.
• Relevant: It should reflect the phone’s features and benefits. Google Pixel effectively achieves this by emphasizing photography.
• Unique: It should stand out from other phone names in the market. While “Oneplus 9 Pro” may not be the most unique, it’s certainly catchy.
• Easy to pronounce: This is crucial for potential customers! Unfortunately, the LG Optimus Vu failed this test miserably.

Now let’s get into the messy details behind some of the worst-named phones of all time! Get ready for some cringeworthy moments and (hopefully) a few good laughs along the way.

Lenovo Phab 2 Pro

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay

Feature	Rating (1-10)
Design	5
Functionality	7
Camera	6
Performance	6
Overall	6

Lenovo’s Phab 2 Pro was a bold attempt at establishing itself in the augmented reality market. The phone was equipped with Google’s Tango technology, allowing users to interact with their surroundings in immersive ways. However, the name “Phab” (a portmanteau of “phone” and “tablet”) just didn’t resonate with consumers. 😥

Think about it: would you have been more excited to try out a phone called “Phab” or something more descriptive like “Tango” or “AR Phone”? We think we know the answer! 🤔 The name just didn’t capture the magic of the phone’s technology.

The real tragedy: this phone was technically ahead of its time, with features like depth-sensing cameras and motion tracking that were truly impressive. But a bad name can sink even the most innovative device. 🤦‍♀️

The Phab 2 Pro, a lesson in the power of branding. It’s a reminder that even with cutting-edge technology, a phone needs a name that connects with its target audience.

Royole FlexPai

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Royole Official Website

Feature	Rating (1-10)
Design	7
Functionality	6
Camera	6
Performance	5
Overall	6

The Royole FlexPai was one of the first commercially available foldable phones. This was a major leap forward for the mobile industry, and it could have been a major win for Royole. Sadly, the name “FlexPai” just doesn’t roll off the tongue. 😳

It’s a bit of a mouthful, and the “Pai” part doesn’t really make sense. It might sound nice in Chinese, but it leaves English-speaking consumers scratching their heads. 🤕

The phone itself had some impressive features like a flexible OLED screen and a powerful processor. But the name just didn’t do it justice. 😔

Consider this: how memorable is “FlexPai”? Would you have been more excited to try a phone called “Flex” or “Fold”? We think so! These names are shorter, snappier, and more accurately represent the phone’s core feature.

The FlexPai is another example of how important a name can be. Even with cutting-edge technology, a phone needs a name that’s easy to remember and pronounce (and ideally, one that people will actually want to say!).

iPhone XS

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Apple Official Website

Feature	Rating (1-10)
Design	9
Functionality	9
Camera	9
Performance	9
Overall	9

Now, we’re not saying that the iPhone XS is a bad phone. Apple is a brand synonymous with innovation and quality. 🙌 But let’s discuss the elephant in the room. 🐘

After releasing the iPhone X, the “XS” naming scheme was a little confusing for consumers. We’re not sure what Apple was thinking, but this left many scratching their heads wondering how “XS” could possibly follow “X” in a logical sequence. 🤔

You might be thinking – “It’s just a name, what’s the big deal?” But for many loyal Apple customers, this change felt like a step backwards. And it doesn’t help that the naming scheme has continued with the iPhone 11, 12, 13, and 14.

Even though the iPhone XS was a well-received phone, its naming generated a lot of chatter. This is a reminder that even the biggest brand names need to be mindful of their naming conventions.

Is the “XS” name memorable? Is it relevant? Is it unique? You decide! We’re left with more questions than answers.

Anything ‘ThinQ’

Think about it: “ThinQ.” It sounds like a botched attempt at spelling “Think.” LG’s “ThinQ” branding has been used across various products, including phones. This was an unfortunate marketing choice, as “ThinQ” simply doesn’t sound attractive.

It’s a jumbled, confusing word that doesn’t communicate anything about the phone’s features. So, what exactly should we “think” about when we hear “ThinQ”? We’re not sure. 🤔

Let’s be honest, “ThinQ” wouldn’t even be a very good name for a technology company (let alone a phone), much less a phone brand.

Even with the “ThinQ” branding, LG’s phones have been highly praised for their features and performance. But the name has become an object of ridicule. 😂

LG phones, like the LG V60 ThinQ and the LG Velvet 5G ThinQ, are often high-performing devices, but the name just doesn’t do them justice.

We’re not sure if LG will ever ditch the “ThinQ” branding, but we’re hoping for a change of heart down the road! 🙏

Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge+

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Samsung Official Website

Feature	Rating (1-10)
Design	8
Functionality	7
Camera	7
Performance	8
Overall	7

We’re sure you’ve heard of this phone! 😊 It’s a classic example of a “too much is more” scenario. While the Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge+ had some impressive features, its name was a disaster. 🤯

It’s a mouthful to say and doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue. It’s also confusingly similar to the Galaxy Note 5.

Remember, consumers will always choose the easier option. 🧠 So, why would they choose a phone with a complicated name when there’s another phone with a name that’s easier to remember, pronounce, and just sounds better?

The Galaxy S6 Edge+ was a high-end phone with some great features like a dual-edge curved screen and a powerful processor. But its clunky name definitely did not help its sales. 😭

This phone illustrates the importance of simplicity. In a crowded market, a memorable name can be the difference between success and failure.

Changhong H2

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay

Feature	Rating (1-10)
Design	5
Functionality	6
Camera	6
Performance	6
Overall	6

The Changhong H2 was a unique phone for its time because it featured a special camera sensor that could scan the caloric load of food. 🤯 But let’s be real: the name is just plain boring. 😴

When you think of a phone with a groundbreaking feature like calorie-counting, you’d expect something catchy and attention-grabbing. “H2” just doesn’t cut it. Even with such a unique feature, the lackluster name failed to grab any attention.

The H2 was a missed opportunity to make a statement in the market. It’s a reminder that a phone’s name should be as unique and exciting as its features.

Kodak Ektra

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Kodak Official Website

Feature	Rating (1-10)
Design	8
Functionality	7
Camera	8
Performance	7
Overall	7

We thought it was a joke at first, like a prank from a friend. “Wait, did you say they called it the Kodak Ektra?” A confusing, almost nonsensical name.

Kodak was a respected name in the film industry. But this attempted comeback into the smartphone market, with a phone designed for photography, completely missed the mark with the name. “Ektra” is a term associated with film cameras, which doesn’t seem very fitting for a smartphone.

While the phone itself was aesthetically pleasing and had great camera features, the name just didn’t work, and consumers weren’t interested.

The Kodak Ektra is a reminder that sometimes a seemingly cool name can actually be quite confusing. In choosing a name, a brand should consider the meaning, the target audience, and the overall message it wants to convey.

Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge Olympic Games Limited Edition

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Feature	Rating (1-10)
Design	7
Functionality	7
Camera	8
Performance	8
Overall	7

We love us a good limited edition phone, but this one was a mouthful. This was a special edition phone meant for the 2016 Rio Olympics. But this just a tiny bit excessive, and it’s a classic example of a name that’s too long and complicated.

Imagine having to tell your friend about this phone. “Hey, check out my new Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge Olympic Games Limited Edition!” It’s a tongue-twister! 🤪

This was an instance where less is more would have been best for Samsung. They could have called it something like “Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge Olympic Edition” or even “Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge Rio Edition.”

The name was so long that it was hard to remember and say. It also just didn’t sound very catchy. 🤔

This phone reminds us that brands need to keep their special edition names short, sweet, and simple.

OnePlus One, OnePlus 2, OnePlus 3…

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Feature	Rating (1-10)
Design	8
Functionality	9
Camera	8
Performance	9
Overall	9

OnePlus has consistently delivered highly competitive phones with great specs and features. Their “Oneplus” branding is also consistent and recognizable. But the naming scheme is pretty bland.

OnePlus’s naming strategy is simple and straightforward, but it’s also incredibly unimaginative. It’s like they’re counting down the days until their next flagship release. 🤔

“OnePlus” is pretty memorable and easy to say. But how would you know what model you’re looking at? “OnePlus One,” “OnePlus 2,” and so on, it’s not very descriptive.

While OnePlus phones are known for their performance and value, their naming scheme could be more engaging. They could offer names that reflect the unique features of each phone.

It’s time for OnePlus to up their game in the naming department! 🎉

ZTE Axon 7

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Feature	Rating (1-10)
Design	6
Functionality	7
Camera	7
Performance	7
Overall	7

This is one that made us scratch our heads. 🤔 ZTE skipped numbers 2 through 6 in its Axon series. Why? Did they have a reason, or did they just want to confuse us?

The Axon 7 was a good phone with decent specs and a relatively affordable price point. But it’s hard to take a brand seriously when they seem to forget to count.

ZTE’s Axon 7 was a reminder that even a good phone can be overshadowed by a confusing and illogical naming strategy.

BlackBerry Priv

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | BlackBerry Official Website

Feature	Rating (1-10)
Design	6
Functionality	6
Camera	6
Performance	6
Overall	6

BlackBerry used to be known for its iconic keyboards. But they decided to move on to a more modern design with the BlackBerry Priv, a slider phone with a physical keyboard.

The problem? “Priv” is an awkward amalgamation of “privilege” and “privacy.” 🤨 And honestly, it just doesn’t sound very appealing.

This phone didn’t catch on as well as hoped, and it could be partially blamed on the confusing name. When you’re trying to make a big splash in the market, your phone’s name should be memorable and make sense.

BlackBerry Priv… perhaps a good name for a personal privacy app but not so much for a phone.

LG K8 V

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Feature	Rating (1-10)
Design	4
Functionality	5
Camera	5
Performance	5
Overall	5

LG K8 V… it sounds like a bad password. 😩

This phone had pretty basic features and a lackluster design. But the name added insult to injury.

No one wants to remember or say “K8 V.” This phone is a prime example of a bad name being a major turnoff for consumers.

LG, we’re not sure what you were thinking with this one! 😂

Yezz Billy 4.7

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Feature	Rating (1-10)
Design	4
Functionality	5
Camera	5
Performance	5
Overall	5

Yezz, just… why? 😅

Apparently, they named their phone after Bill Gates. We’re not sure if this was intended to be a tribute, but it’s just very awkward. We’re pretty sure Bill Gates would not appreciate this.

This phone is another example of how a name can instantly create a negative association.

We’re not sure how this phone ever got off the ground. It seems like a desperate attempt to gain attention. But a phone’s name should be more than just a gimmick. It should be memorable and meaningful, and this missed the mark.

Motorola Moto G

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Motorola Official Website

Feature	Rating (1-10)
Design	7
Functionality	8
Camera	8
Performance	8
Overall	8

Motorola’s Moto G series is known for its affordable price point and solid features. “Moto G” is a memorable name. But the problem is that it’s been used for multiple models over the years.

This can be confusing for consumers who are trying to decide which phone is right for them. It’s not always easy to keep track of all the different Moto G models.

While the Motorola Moto G has become a staple in the mid-range market, it could benefit from a more refined naming scheme.

ZTE Iconic Phablet

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Feature	Rating (1-10)
Design	5
Functionality	6
Camera	6
Performance	6
Overall	6

This name is just… pretentious. 🙄 And frankly, it doesn’t match the phone’s quality. “Iconic Phablet?” Come on, ZTE!

The name is clunky, confusing, and doesn’t make sense. It’s like they tried too hard to be sophisticated but just ended up sounding awkward.

The phone itself was not a standout device. It was a mid-range phone with mediocre specs. But the name added to its lackluster appeal.

This phone demonstrates that a fancy name can’t disguise the fact that a phone lacks substance.

Panasonic Eluga

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Panasonic Official Website

Feature	Rating (1-10)
Design	6
Functionality	7
Camera	7
Performance	7
Overall	7

Eluga… doesn’t sound like a phone. It sounds more like a brand of bottled water! 💧

Panasonic made an attempt to create a unique name for its phone series but it just didn’t work.

The name is clunky, difficult to remember, and doesn’t resonate with consumers.

The Panasonic Eluga series was a line of mid-range phones with decent features. But the name was unfortunately a major hurdle for potential consumers to overcome.

HTC Windows Phone 8X

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Feature	Rating (1-10)
Design	7
Functionality	6
Camera	6
Performance	6
Overall	6

HTC once had a significant presence in the smartphone market, but they couldn’t seem to crack the code for a memorable name.

This phone’s name is a mouthful! It’s long, confusing, and just plain bland. We’re not sure what they were thinking!

Even though this phone had some solid features, it failed to make much of an impact on the market, and the name is a big reason why.

HTC Windows Phone 8X… we’re not sure what to say.

HP Pre 3

👉 CHECK PRICE on: [Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/s?k