Review: CMF Phone 1 by Nothing – A Fresh Approach
London-based tech company Nothing has introduced its first smartphone under the CMF by Nothing sub-brand, the CMF Phone 1. This new entrant in the smartphone market promises a blend of style, performance, and affordability. With features like 5G support, a Super AMOLED display, and a 50MP camera, the CMF Phone 1 aims to carve out a niche in the highly competitive budget segment. In this detailed review, we’ll explore its design, performance, camera capabilities, and overall value to determine if it lives up to the hype.
Design and Build
One of the standout features of the CMF Phone 1 is its design. Moving away from the more conventional aesthetics seen in other Nothing phones, this model introduces interchangeable back covers, allowing users to personalize their device. The build quality feels robust, and the phone sits comfortably in the hand, making it practical for daily use.
Key Design Features:
Interchangeable Back Covers: Priced at Rs 1,499 each, these covers provide a unique way to customize your phone.
Premium Materials: Despite its budget pricing, the phone doesn’t compromise on build quality, offering a sleek and modern look.
Display
The CMF Phone 1 boasts a 6.67-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth visuals and vibrant colors. The display can reach a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, making it easy to view under direct sunlight.
Display Highlights:
Resolution: FHD+ ensures sharp and clear visuals.
Refresh Rate: The 120Hz refresh rate delivers a fluid user experience, especially during gaming and scrolling.
Brightness: With 2,000 nits peak brightness, the display remains legible in all lighting conditions.
Performance
Under the hood, the CMF Phone 1 is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset, which offers a balance of power efficiency and performance. The phone is available in two variants: 6GB RAM with 128GB storage, and 8GB RAM with 128GB storage. Additionally, it supports 8GB of virtual RAM and has a microSD card slot for storage expansion up to 2TB.
Performance Specs:
Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7300 ensures smooth multitasking and gaming performance.
Memory Options: 6GB and 8GB RAM variants cater to different user needs.
Storage Expansion: Up to 2TB via microSD card slot provides ample storage for media and apps.
Camera Capabilities
The CMF Phone 1 features a dual-camera setup on the back, comprising a 50MP main sensor with Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) and a 2MP portrait sensor with 2x zoom. For selfies, it sports a 16MP front camera.
Camera Highlights:
Main Camera: The 50MP sensor captures detailed and vibrant photos, while EIS helps stabilize shots.
Portrait Sensor: The 2MP sensor adds depth to portrait shots, though its utility is limited compared to higher resolution sensors.
Selfie Camera: The 16MP front camera performs well in various lighting conditions, making it suitable for selfies and video calls.
Battery Life
The CMF Phone 1 is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery that supports 33W fast charging and 5W reverse wired charging. The company claims that the phone can reach 50% charge in just 20 minutes, which is impressive for a device in this price range. It also features Battery Health Technology designed to prolong battery lifespan.
Battery Features:
Capacity: 5,000mAh provides ample power for all-day use.
Fast Charging: 33W fast charging ensures quick top-ups.
Battery Health: Technology aimed at maintaining long-term battery performance.
Software
Running on Nothing OS 2.6 based on Android 14, the CMF Phone 1 offers a clean and intuitive user interface. The company promises two major Android updates and three years of security updates, ensuring the device remains up-to-date with the latest features and security patches.
Software Features:
Operating System: Nothing OS 2.6 based on Android 14 offers a smooth and customizable user experience.
Updates: Guaranteed two major Android updates and three years of security updates provide long-term software support.
Additional Features
The CMF Phone 1 includes several additional features that enhance its overall value:
Fingerprint Sensor: An under-display fingerprint sensor for convenient and secure unlocking.
Water and Dust Resistance: IP52 rating ensures protection against dust and light splashes.
Connectivity: 5G support ensures future-proof connectivity options.
Pricing and Availability
The CMF Phone 1 is competitively priced:
Base Model: Rs 15,999 for 6GB RAM and 128GB storage.
Higher Variant: Rs 17,999 for 8GB RAM and 128GB storage.
The first sale goes live on July 12th at 12 noon via the CMF India website, retail partners, and Flipkart. A special discount of Rs 1,000 is available on the first sale date. Additionally, the phone will be available in limited quantities on July 9th at Lulu Mall in Bengaluru from 7 pm onwards.
Accessories Pricing:
Replaceable Back Covers: Rs 1,499 each.
Accessories: Priced at Rs 799 each, including a 33W charger available at the same price if purchased with the phone.
Conclusion
The CMF Phone 1 by Nothing is a well-rounded smartphone that offers a compelling mix of style, performance, and affordability. Its unique design with interchangeable back covers, robust performance powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset, and impressive display make it a standout option in the budget segment. While the camera setup is modest, it delivers satisfactory performance for casual photography.
With competitive pricing and a strong feature set, the CMF Phone 1 is poised to attract budget-conscious consumers looking for a stylish and capable smartphone. The added benefits of timely software updates and a focus on battery health further enhance its appeal.
Overall, the CMF Phone 1 marks a successful debut for Nothing’s sub-brand, CMF by Nothing, and sets a high bar for future releases in the affordable smartphone market.
