[Review] Light Up Your World in Style with the Nothing Phone (3a) Series

Nothing has introduced its latest smartphones, the Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro, aiming to cater to a more diverse range of users, with two launches instead of the usual one.

Both devices share foundational features yet offer distinct specifications to meet varying preferences. Let’s take a closer look at both devices to assess which is more suitable for you if you would like to get a phone from the Nothing Phone (3a) series.

Shared Features

• Design and Display: Both models feature Nothing’s signature semi-transparent design complemented by the Glyph Interface – LED lights that serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. Each phone is equipped with a 6.77-inch AMOLED display offering a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring vibrant visuals and smooth interactions.
• Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset, both phones deliver robust performance suitable for daily tasks and multitasking needs.
• Battery Life: A 5,000 mAh battery ensures extended usage, allowing users to go through their day without frequent recharging.
• Essential AI: A key new feature of the Phone (3a) series is the Essential AI, accessible via the Essential Key, a dedicated physical button on the right-hand side of both phones. This AI-driven assistant organises content such as screenshots, voice memos, and photographs, extracting relevant information and generating actionable items. For instance, capturing a screenshot of a flight itinerary prompts the AI to extract flight details and create reminders, streamlining your workflow.

One of the key differentiators between Nothing phones and the sea of other Android devices is its Glyph design which is a definite head-turner at any dinner party. Both decorative and functional, at the very basic you can sync the lighting with music as you play your favourite tracks on your mobile. At the advanced level, you can customise the lights to your own preferred alert setting, acting like a secret code of sorts in spy movies.

We also love the sleek, clean look of the Nothing-themed home screen interface that is available on both models, decked in a monotone and symbol-driven design. If you have a Nothing earbud, the app is pre-installed and can be paired perfectly for a seamless music experience.

All decent smartphones have to come decked with some new AI features these days and it is no different with the Nothing (3a). What we like about Nothing’s Essential AI is its ease of use and the well-thought-out user journey. Essential AI did not attempt to do anything fancy with all the bells and whistles, but commit to doing one thing and doing it very well – daily note-taking and reminders. It is easy to activate and works seamlessly.

Key Differences

To justify the price difference between the two for two different target user segments, there are some difference in the camera system and the design nuances between the two models.

• Camera System

• Phone (3a): Features a horizontal camera arrangement on the back, including a 50MP main camera, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 2x telephoto lens.

• Phone (3a) Pro: Offers a half-spiral camera layout, comprising a 50MP main camera, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 3x periscope telephoto lens for enhanced zoom capabilities.

• Design Nuances:

• Phone (3a): Presents a horizontal camera arrangement on the back.

• Phone (3a) Pro: Boasts a half-spiral camera layout, adding a unique aesthetic touch.

Overall, the camera on both Nothing (3a) phones is of quality, but based on the pricing, do not expect it to deliver at the level of other higher-end phones at much more hefty price tags.

Design-wise, the Nothing (3a) Pro definitely stands out more with the circular protruding back that exudes Star Wars vibes. The Nothing (3a) is aesthetically please too, but will appear less premium when placed side by side.

Pricing and Availability in Singapore

• Phone (3a):
  • 12GB RAM / 256GB Storage: S$549 (pre-order)
• Phone (3a) Pro:
  • 12GB RAM / 256GB Storage: S$649 (waitlist)

Recommendations

• Phone (3a): Ideal for users seeking a stylish device with a solid camera setup and reliable performance at a more accessible price point.
• Phone (3a) Pro: Suited for photography enthusiasts and those desiring enhanced zoom capabilities, coupled with a distinctive design, justifying the investment.

Overall, the Nothing (3a) series is well-positioned to capture the mid-segment Android smartphone market with its stunning aesthetics and well-thought-out user experience design.