The Nothing Phone (3) has officially arrived, and it’s creating buzz with its striking transparent design, upgraded Glyph interface, and top-tier performance. In this fully optimized, straight-to-the-point review, we’ll explore everything you need to know about its design, display, hardware, camera, software, and features.
Finally, a True Flagship
After several mid-range releases like the Nothing Phone (2a), 2a Plus, and 3a Pro, fans were waiting for a true powerhouse. The Nothing Phone (3) is that flagship. It’s built with premium hardware and a fresh design to compete directly with high-end models like the Galaxy S25 and iPhone 16.
While the price has increased, so has the ambition. The Glyph LED system has evolved, the build quality has improved, and the device offers real flagship capabilities.
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Premium Design with Transparent Appeal
Nothing continues its bold visual style with a refined transparent rear, showcasing internal components and an upgraded Glyph Matrix display. The aluminum frame enhances durability while keeping the phone lightweight and slim.
- Transparent back with detailed aesthetics
- Refined Glyph lights with smart notifications
- Recycled aluminum frame and plastic-free packaging
The design is more than visual—it’s functional. Glyph icons notify you of calls, texts, or timers without touching the screen. Plus, you get fun features like Pixel Face preview and mini games within the Glyph interface.
Stunning OLED Display
The Phone (3) features a 6.7-inch QHD+ AMOLED screen with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. The brightness peaks at 1600 nits outdoors and up to 4500 nits in HDR playback.
- QHD+ resolution with HDR10+ support
- 2160Hz PWM dimming for eye comfort
- Widevine L1 support for HD streaming
The only minor drawback is the waterdrop notch, which feels outdated. But the overall display quality remains outstanding for everyday use.
Flagship-Level Performance
Under the hood, the phone runs on the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor. Paired with 12GB/16GB RAM and UFS 4.0 storage, it delivers smooth and reliable performance across all tasks.
- Lag-free multitasking
- High frame rate gaming (COD Mobile, BGMI)
- Efficient thermal management with VC cooling
- Powerful Camera Setup
Nothing Phone (3) features:
- 50MP main sensor with OIS
- 50MP ultra-wide lens
- 64MP 3x telephoto zoom
- 32MP front camera
Images are detailed and natural, even in low light. The phone supports 4K video at 60fps, and features like OIS ensure stable footage.
Clean, Fast Software Experience
Running on Nothing OS 3.5 (based on Android 15), the software is minimal, fluid, and free of bloat. It includes:
- Smart gestures (lift-to-wake, 3-finger screenshot)
- Essential Search (voice + AI answers)
- Essential Space (organizes screenshots/tasks via AI)
You’ll receive 3 years of major updates and 4 years of security patches.
Battery and Charging
Powered by a 5150mAh silicon-carbon battery, the Phone (3) easily lasts a full day under heavy usage:
- 45W fast wired charging (~55 mins)
- 15W wireless charging
- 5W reverse wireless charging
Screen-on time reaches up to 8 hours, with 20% battery still remaining at night.
Connectivity & Extras
- 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4
- NFC and UWB
- IP54 splash resistance
- In-display fingerprint sensor
No headphone jack or SD card slot—standard omissions in 2025.
Storage & Pricing
- 12GB RAM / 256GB storage – INR 79,999 ($749)
- 16GB RAM / 512GB storage – INR 89,999 ($849)
While it sits in the premium segment, Nothing offers a unique combination of style and performance that most competitors lack.
AI Features & Limitations
Unlike Samsung or Google, the Nothing Phone (3) doesn’t include AI image editing. Instead, it focuses on in-house tools:
- Essential Space: Uses AI to process screenshots and organize content
- AI voice memos: Transcribes and turns recordings into task lists
However, integration with third-party apps is limited. For more advanced AI, users can access Google’s Gemini.
Glyph Matrix: A Practical Innovation
The Glyph Matrix is a circular LED array that displays icons, alerts, and battery info. It supports:
- Custom icons for contacts
- Pixel dog, clock, and battery widgets
- Easy switching via Glyph Button
- It’s not just eye-catching—it’s useful.
Who Should Buy the Nothing Phone (3)?
This phone is ideal for:
- Users wanting a unique, standout design
- Fans of clean software with no bloat
- Gamers and creators needing strong performance
- People who value fast, reliable updates
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Unique transparent design
- Bright, sharp AMOLED display
- Smooth software with AI features
- Great cameras with OIS
- Excellent battery life
Cons:
- No IP68 waterproofing
- No headphone jack
- No expandable storage
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does the Nothing Phone (3) support wireless charging?
Yes, 15W wireless and 5W reverse charging.
Is the Glyph interface helpful?
Yes, it offers smart, customizable notifications.
Can it handle gaming?
Absolutely. Games run smoothly at high settings.
Will it receive updates?
Yes, 3 OS updates and 4 years of security support.
Is it fully waterproof?
No, only IP54 splash-resistant.
Is there expandable storage?
No, only internal storage options.
Is the low-light camera good?
Yes, the OIS helps in capturing sharp, clean images.
Is a charger included in the box?
No, just a USB-C cable.
Can Glyph icons be customized?
Yes, assign icons to contacts and alerts.
Is it suitable for work use?
Yes, it’s fast, reliable, and supports essential productivity apps.
Final Verdict
The Nothing Phone (3) is more than just a stylish device. It’s a smart, thoughtfully designed flagship that delivers premium performance, clean software, and a user-first experience. With its innovative Glyph Matrix, standout design, and strong specs, it stands out in a sea of lookalike phones.
Verdict: 9/10 – Stylish, Powerful, and Smartly Built.
