Nothing is set to launch its new smartphone – the CMF Phone (1) – early next week. Just like every other launch, the company is creating a lot of hype around what is supposed to be its most affordable phone. Just like every other Nothing Phone, this one too seems shallow on promises.
What’s the hype around the new Nothing phone? It’s supposed to come with a screwdriver which basically allows you to replace the back panel of the phone. Sounds interesting, right? Yes, it is. But, only if you don’t have to pay extra for it. Else, what’s the point of this experience?
This is where the catch lies. Before that, let’s see what Nothing has promised so far.
Also read: CMF Phone (1) by Nothing launching on July 8: Expected price, specifications, and more
CMF Phone (1) by Nothing will introduce colorful replaceable back covers including Black, Blue, Light Green, and Orange. Additionally, there will be more accessories to enhance its aesthetics. However, with all these accessories, we are assuming that the CMF Phone (1) may not be a budget smartphone.
Nothing typically doesn’t include a charging adapter with its phones. That’s likely to be the case with the CMF Phone (1) as well. At least that’s what the leaks suggest. So, you will have to buy it separately. Additionally, the phone stand and lanyard cable teased in Nothing’s promotional material may not be part of the retail package as well. And, going by what we hear, they won’t come for cheap either.
So, even if Nothing prices CMF Phone (1) under Rs 20,000, the effective cost of the phone can go up by another Rs 3,000-4,000. This is when we are not even taking the cost of additional back panels into account.
So, for example, if the CMF Phone (1) is priced at Rs 19,000 and you also purchase its accessories, the phone will no longer be a budget option. A buyer looking for a budget smartphone expects it to come as a complete package, including the charger and promoted accessories.
Also read: CMF by Nothing: What this new sub-brand means for the company?
It’s interesting given that Nothing enjoyed a fair amount of success with the recently launched Phone 2(a) after a couple of mediocre launches in Nothing Phone (1) and Phone (2). Ideally, the company should have looked to provide a complete experience to the budget buyers.
Regardless, the ability to replace the back panel seems exciting and at least fresh. Reminds me of the good old Samsung Corby. Here is hoping that Nothing prices the CMF Phone (1) well and gives at least some of the accessories for free.
