Nothing Phone (3) Review: A New Era for Nothing’s Flagship Smartphone
When it comes to innovative devices, Nothing has always been a company that captures attention. However, the design of their smartphones has often left me feeling underwhelmed. The focus on the ‘Glyph Interface’ of lights on the back, while unique, has never truly impressed me. In fact, it’s one of the first things I switch off after reviewing a Nothing phone. The Glyph lights are more annoying than useful, and I was excited to hear that Nothing would be ditching them on the Phone (3), their first flagship phone.
After getting hands-on with the Phone (3), I’m pleased to see that Nothing has indeed done away with the Glyphs. Instead, they have introduced the ‘Glyph Matrix’, a collection of 489 monochrome LEDs that offer a range of at-a-glance information. From caller IDs to app notifications and even interactive features like party games and a Magic 8 Ball, the Glyph Matrix provides a more discreet and versatile alternative to the flashy lights of the past.
The design of the Phone (3) is a mix of familiar and new elements. While the top of the phone’s back may feel a bit crowded with three camera lenses, a flash, and the Glyph matrix, the overall look is sure to turn heads. The glass front and back, along with the aluminum frame, give the phone a premium feel and the added weight provides a reassuring sense of durability. The Phone (3) also boasts IP68 water and dust resistance, making it a true flagship in terms of durability.
The display of the Phone (3) is a standout feature, with a gorgeous 6.67-inch AMOLED panel that offers vivid colors and deep blacks. The fast 120Hz refresh rate, powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chip and at least 12GB of RAM, ensures smooth performance for most tasks. The phone’s software, Nothing OS 3.5 based on Android 15, offers a familiar experience with some new features like ‘Flip to Record’ in the Essential Space.
Looking ahead, Nothing has promised support for the Phone (3) with five major OS updates and security patches until 2032. This commitment to software updates is impressive, though still falls short of the seven-year support offered by Samsung and Google. The Phone (3) also promises strong battery life and impressive camera capabilities with four 50MP lenses.
Overall, the Nothing Phone (3) is a compelling addition to the flagship smartphone market. With pre-orders starting on 4 July and general sales on 15 July, the Phone (3) is set to make waves in the industry. Whether it can compete with the likes of Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy remains to be seen, but the Phone (3) is definitely a device worth considering for those looking for something different in their next smartphone.
