✨ Overview & Design
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Launch & Pricing
Officially unveiled on July 1, 2025, in the US and globally, pricing starts at $799 for the 12 GB/256 GB model; the 16 GB/512 GB variant costs more Nothing+15Android Central+15The Guardian+15. -
Aesthetic Appeal
It features a semi‑transparent rear shell showcasing internal components, highlighted by the new Glyph Matrix – a dot‑matrix LED panel replacing the original Glyph lights Android Central+11TechRadar+11Wikipedia+11. -
Build
A robust 6.67" OLED panel protected by Gorilla Glass 7i, with IP68 dust/water resistance Android Central+5Wikipedia+5Ars Technica+5.
🧠 Technical Specs
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.67″ 1260×2800 px OLED, 120 Hz, HDR10+, ~4500 nits peak brightness TechRadar+15PhoneArena+15Wikipedia+15 |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 (Octa‑core) The GuardianAndroid CentralLOS40Wikipedia |
| RAM & Storage | Options: 12 GB/256 GB or 16 GB/512 GB UFS 4.0 WikipediaReddit |
| Battery & Charging | 5150 mAh (5500 mAh in India), 65 W wired, 15 W wireless, 7.5 W reverse WikipediaPhoneArenaDroid LifeAndroid Central |
| Cameras (Rear) | Triple 50 MP: wide w/ OIS, periscope telephoto 3× zoom, ultrawide The GuardianTechRadarWikipedia |
| Front Camera | 50 MP selfie, 4K video capability TechRadarWikipedia |
| Other Features | In‑display fingerprint, stereo speakers, NFC, eSIM, Android 15 w/ Nothing OS 3.5 WikipediaAndroid CentralAndroid CentralTom's Guide |
🚀 Performance & Software
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Speed & UI
The 8s Gen 4 chip delivers solid flagship-level performance. Nothing OS 3.5 is clean and customizable, featuring AI-powered "Essential Space" and a dedicated Essential Key button TechRadar+15The Verge+15Tom's Guide+15. -
Battery Life
Most users report 5–7 h screen-on time with battery comfortably lasting a full day. Charging speeds are swift when using a compatible 65 W charger PhoneArena+4Droid Life+4Nothing+4.
📷 Camera Quality
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Daylight Excellence: Triple 50 MP system captures sharp, vibrant images with good detailing and telephoto zoom + macro Nothing+15Tom's Guide+15Nothing+15.
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Low-Light Woes: Slightly inconsistent performance and lacks refinement compared to competing flagships TechRadar+15The Guardian+15TechRadar+15.
✅ Pros
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Eye-Catching Design: Standout transparent build with interactive Glyph Matrix TechRadar+15The Guardian+15TechRadar+15.
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Performance: Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 handles daily tasks and multitasking smoothly de.nothing.tech+15Android Central+15The Guardian+15.
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Battery & Charging: Large battery, fast 65 W wired & wireless support WIRED+4Wikipedia+4WIRED+4.
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AI Features & OS Support: AI-enhanced tools like "Essential Space", plus promised 5 major OS updates, 7 years of security patches WIRED+4Tom's Guide+4Android Central+4.
❌ Cons
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Cameras Lag Rival Flagships: Performs decently but falls short vs Galaxy S25, Pixel 9, iPhone 16 in camera prowess PhoneArena+3TechRadar+3The Verge+3.
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Thermal Throttling: Can get warm under heavy loads and gaming The Guardian+1Wikipedia+1.
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Display Limitations: No LTPO; fixed 60/120 Hz switching means less power efficiency RedditAndroid Central.
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Niche Appeal: Bold design might not be mainstream; high price vs less expensive flagships TechRadarWIREDAndroid Central.
📋 Final Verdict
The Nothing Phone 3 successfully positions itself as a unique, design-first "budget flagship". It delivers solid performance, fast charging, good battery life, and innovative AI and LED features. However, it trails behind top-tier competitors in raw performance, camera robustness, and display optimization.
Choose it if you value flair, clean software, AI tools, and long‑term updates.
Skip it if you're after peak camera quality, maximum performance, or top-of-the-line value.
TL;DR
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Strengths: Bold design, Glyph Matrix, AI integration, solid specs, long updates
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Weaknesses: Camera inconsistency, no LTPO display, occasional warmth, niche styling
Let me know if you'd like comparison charts, camera samples, or contrast with other flagships!