In a livestream event that sent shockwaves through the tech world, Carl Pei, CEO of Nothing, finally revealed the price of the company’s highly anticipated first flagship device: the Nothing Phone (3). Starting at $699, the phone positions itself as a bold challenger to premium giants like Google’s Pixel 9 and Samsung’s Galaxy S24. The announcement, packed with specs, design reveals, and Pei’s signature flair, marks a pivotal moment for the three-year-old startup as it steps into the high-stakes flagship arena.
From Disruptor to Contender
Since its debut in 2021, Nothing has carved a niche with its transparent design language and “anti-boring” ethos. The Phone (1) and Phone (2) blended mid-range specs with standout aesthetics, but the Phone (3) represents a leap into uncharted territory. “This isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a statement,” Pei declared during the event. “We’re proving that premium innovation doesn’t have to come with a premium price tag.”
The Phone (3) retains Nothing’s iconic Glyph Interface, featuring over 1,000 customizable LED patterns on its back panel. But this time, the lights sync with notifications, music, and even voice assistants like ChatGPT integration (a first for smartphones). Under the hood, it packs Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, 12GB of RAM, and a 5,000mAh battery with 80W fast charging. The 6.7-inch LTPO OLED display boasts a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 3,000 nits—outshining even the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
A Camera That “Sees Differently”
Nothing’s partnership with imaging experts at Adobe appears to have paid off. The dual 50MP rear cameras leverage AI-powered algorithms for low-light photography and 8K video recording. Pei teased a new “Studio Mode” co-developed with Adobe Lightroom, allowing RAW edits directly in the gallery app. Early testers praise its color accuracy, though critics note the lack of a periscope zoom lens—a staple in rivals like the Pixel 9 Pro.
Software: Where Nothing Shines
Nothing OS 3.0, based on Android 14, introduces a minimalist redesign with dynamic widgets and AI-driven app predictions. The Glyph Interface now doubles as a visual timer, Uber tracker, and even a retro-style pixel game pad. Pei emphasized longevity: “We’re committing to four years of OS updates and five years of security patches.”
For a deeper dive into how the Phone (3) compares to its budget-friendly sibling, the Phone (3a, check out GSMGoTech’s breakdown of Nothing’s expanding lineup.
Price Wars and Market Realities
At 699,thePhone(3)undercutstheGalaxyS24(699,thePhone(3)undercutstheGalaxyS24(799) and Pixel 9 ($749), but faces skepticism. “Consumers associate flagships with established brands,” says tech analyst Marina Lopez. “Nothing’s challenge isn’t just specs—it’s trust.” Pei, however, remains bullish. During a hands-on demo, he highlighted sustainability efforts: 100% recycled aluminum frames and repairable modular components.
Availability and Early Reactions
Pre-orders begin May 20, with shipments starting June 1. The Phone (3) will be available in Classic Black, Frost White, and a limited-edition Glowing Transparent variant. U.S. buyers can snag exclusive carrier deals, while global customers can purchase unlocked models directly from Amazon.
Early adopters on Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) seem split. Some applaud Nothing’s ambition: “Finally, a flagship that doesn’t cost a kidney.” Others question camera performance and software polish. Pei, meanwhile, is already looking ahead: “This is just Chapter 1. The best of Nothing is yet to come.”
The Verdict
With the Phone (3), Nothing has crafted a device that dares to blend style, substance, and subversion. Whether it can dethrone industry titans remains uncertain, but one thing’s clear: Carl Pei isn’t playing it safe anymore. And in a market hungry for disruption, that might be exactly what we need.
Cover image credit: Nothing
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