The CMF Phone 1, from Nothing’s budget sub-brand CMF, introduces a fresh perspective on affordable smartphones. Priced at just $200, the device stands out not for its specs but for its focus on design and software—a hallmark of Nothing’s ethos.
A Design That Breaks the Mold
At first glance, the CMF Phone 1 might look like a typical Android phone with flat sides, standard bezels, and a dual-camera setup. But dig deeper, and you’ll find two unique design elements that set it apart:
- Removable Back Panels
The plastic back is completely removable, available in colors like black, orange, blue, and a greenish light blue. Swapping back panels not only allows for personal customization but also evokes nostalgia for the days of removable phone backs—a feature largely lost in modern smartphones. Despite its plastic and somewhat flimsy feel when detached, the back becomes rigid and sturdy when secured. - The Knob
A dial at the bottom corner of the phone is more than a quirky design choice; it serves as a mounting point for accessories. These include:- A kickstand for hands-free use.
- A cardholder wallet capable of holding up to four cards, magnetically attaching to the back.
- A lanyard for those who prefer to carry their phone securely on a strap.
Features Beyond Expectations
The CMF Phone 1 runs on Nothing OS 2.6, mirroring the user experience of Nothing’s premium phones, minus the Glyph Interface. Here’s what it offers:
- Smooth Software: Features like Game Mode, app cloning, and one-handed pull-down gestures deliver an intuitive experience. The aesthetic elements, such as the custom icon pack and widgets, add a distinct flair.
- AMOLED Display: A 6.5-inch AMOLED display supports adaptive refresh rates (60-120Hz) and peaks at 2,000 nits brightness. Coupled with a 240Hz touch sampling rate, the screen is responsive and vibrant.
- Performance: Powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 5G chipset with up to 8GB of RAM, the phone handles daily tasks like web browsing and social media effortlessly.
Where It Shows Its Budget Roots
Despite its strengths, the CMF Phone 1’s affordability comes with compromises:
- Hardware Limitations:
- No wireless charging.
- Mono speaker, prone to blockage.
- IP52 rating, offering only splash resistance.
- Flimsy feel of the removable plastic backs and buttons.
- Camera: The primary 50MP Sony sensor captures acceptable photos but lacks the finesse of higher-end devices.
- Battery and Charging: A 5,000mAh battery provides excellent longevity, supporting up to 33W charging. However, no charger is included in the box.
A New Era for Budget Phones
The CMF Phone 1 feels like an experiment in balancing affordability with standout features. While its innovative design may not appeal to everyone, it achieves its goal of providing a unique user experience at a budget price. For those seeking customization and decent performance without breaking the bank, the CMF Phone 1 is worth considering.
Ultimately, it’s a bold offering that redefines what’s possible in the $200 smartphone category. CMF and Nothing have truly embraced the idea of making budget phones exciting again.