Exploring the Unique Designs of Nothing’s Latest Offerings
Nothing has consistently set itself apart in the smartphone landscape, starting with the release of their original device in 2022. With striking futuristic designs and illuminated glyphs on the back of their phones, the brand continues to innovate with the launch of the new Phone 3 and Headphone 1. In a market where many smartphones look quite similar, these offerings are undoubtedly distinctive.
The Distinctive Look of the Nothing Phone 3
Beginning with the Nothing Phone 3, this device builds on its predecessors, the Phone 3a and 3a Pro, which were revealed earlier this year. Its back resembles a sliding block puzzle, reminiscent of Google’s now-cancelled Project Ara modular initiative. The handset features triple 50MP rear cameras and a flash, all organized within the puzzle design, alongside a Glyph Matrix positioned in the upper right corner.
This innovative monochrome display is not just for show; it can convey various notifications and even allows users to engage in simple games like Rock, Paper, Scissors. Additionally, it serves as a basic viewfinder, helping users ensure everyone is in the shot before taking a photo.
Credit: Nothing
The device comes in both white and black options. On the front, it features a 6.67-inch OLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate and a 2800 x 1260 pixel resolution. Additionally, it offers IP68 certification, ensuring water and dust resistance, while the front houses another 50MP camera for selfies.
Internally, the Phone 3 is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 processor, paired with either 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, or 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. It also boasts an impressive 5,150mAh battery (a step up from the 4,700mAh in the previous model), supporting 65W wired charging and 15W wireless charging.
On the software front, it runs on Nothing OS 3.5 based on Android 15. A significant update, Nothing OS 4.0, is expected soon as it will be compatible with Android 16. Anticipations are high, as Nothing’s CEO Carl Pei has teased enhanced AI functionality coming with the upgrade.
As anticipated, pricing could be a challenge; the Nothing Phone 3 starts at $799 for the 12GB/256GB variant, placing it in competition with prominent models such as the Google Pixel 9, iPhone 16, and Samsung Galaxy S25. The 16GB/512GB option escalates the price to $899.
This pricing positions the Phone 3 as a flagship option without fully reaching flagship specs, especially since it doesn’t feature the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset found in rivals like the Galaxy S25. Nonetheless, its captivating design and unique features may draw the interest of many users, offering adequate performance for everyday tasks.
The phone is set to be available starting July 15.
The Chunky Appeal of the Headphone 1
Credit: Nothing
In addition to the Phone 3, Nothing has introduced its inaugural over-ear headphones, the Nothing Headphone 1. The design eschews conventional aesthetics, ensuring that anyone wearing them stands out from the crowd.
Developed in collaboration with audio specialists KEF, these headphones are equipped with 40 mm drivers and include features like active noise cancellation (ANC), a transparency mode, and spatial audio with head tracking, allowing sound to adjust as the user moves. Battery life promises up to 35 hours with ANC activated.
Physical controls are included, alongside multiple connectivity options: 3.5 mm jack, USB-C, and wireless Bluetooth. Like the Phone 3, the Headphone 1 is available in black or white, retailing for $299, and launching on July 15.
