Nothing Phone (3) review: Glyphs and good vibes

Carl Pei's innovative brand, Nothing, is shaking up the smartphone market with its latest release, the Phone (3). This device stands out not just as another Android phone, but as an audacious blend of unique aesthetics and robust technology. As the company's most ambitious smartphone to date, the Phone (3) raises an intriguing question: has its pricing alienated its core supporters? At first glance, the Phone (3) is unmistakably distinctive. Its back features a combination of transparent elements and intricate textures, highlighted by a circular Glyph Matrix that functions as a secondary display for notifications like time, battery level, and incoming calls. This design is bolder than its predecessor, the Phone (2), though opinions on the asymmetrical camera arrangement are mixed. After some adjustment, many users, including myself, have come to appreciate its quirky charm. The previous individual LED strips have been replaced by a circular grid of 489 LEDs, allowing for playful interactions like games of Rock, Paper, Scissors. When it comes to display and performance, the Phone (3) excels. It boasts a stunning 6.67-inch 1.5K flexible AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and an impressive peak brightness of 4,500 nits, making it one of the most visually appealing displays in its category. However, it's worth noting that Netflix has yet to approve it for HDR content. The device is powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 processor, which, while slightly less powerful than the 8 Gen 3, delivers a swift and smooth user experience. The Nothing OS 3.5 interface is refreshingly unique, featuring minimalist menus and fluid animations that enhance usability. An Essential Key on the side opens Essential Space for quick access to voice notes and reminders, although it lacks the ability to save typed notes. The camera setup includes three 50MP sensors—main, periscope, and ultra-wide—along with a 50MP front-facing camera. While it appears impressive on paper, real-world performance varies. In favorable lighting, the Phone (3) captures sharp, detailed images, but struggles with dynamic range in low-light conditions, leading to crushed shadows and blown highlights. Video recording is smooth at 4K60, and the newly introduced Ultra XDR video mode shows promise, yet it still falls short compared to competitors like the Pixel and iPhone in terms of color accuracy. Battery performance is another strong point, with the Indian version featuring a 5,500mAh battery that supports a full day of heavy usage, offering around 7 hours of screen time. The Phone (3) charges rapidly with 65W wired charging, alongside options for wireless and reverse wireless charging. In conclusion, the Nothing Phone (3) is an exciting, innovative device with plenty to offer. Its fresh design and thoughtful features create a personal touch that appeals to users looking for something different. However, its price tag of ₹79,999 places it in direct competition with flagship models from Apple, Samsung, and Google. While the Phone (3) is a fun and futuristic option, potential buyers may want to wait for a price drop or promotional offers before making a purchase.