New Delhi, May 15 -- The smartphone industry has created some of the world's biggest technology giants. But for every Apple Inc. or Samsung Electronics success story, there are several ambitious startups and tech brands that burned through millions of dollars before disappearing entirely. Many of these companies entered the market with bold promises, celebrity founders, futuristic designs, or "revolutionary" features, only to collapse under poor execution, weak ecosystems, or brutal competition from Android and the iPhone.

Here are 10 smartphone startups and ambitious mobile ventures that failed despite massive hype.

Founded by Android creator Andy Rubin, Essential Products was expected to become the next big premium Android brand. The ...