BASIC, BUT COMPETENT

Following the success of the Nothing Phone (2) and Nothing Phone (2a), the company launched its sub-brand, CMF by Nothing, aimed squarely at the budget-conscious.

- CHERYL TAN

Nothing has consistently grabbed attention in the smartphone market with its sleek designs and high-quality offerings at competitive prices. Following the success of the Nothing Phone (2) and Nothing Phone (2a), the company launched its sub-brand, CMF by Nothing, aimed squarely at the budget-conscious.

CMF stands for Colour, Materials, and Finish, with the brand promising to bring top-notch design and functionality at a fraction of typical smartphone prices. Enter their first entry-level smartphone, the CMF Phone 1, priced at an affordable $369. The CMF Phone 1's design is its most unique feature. The modular design allows users to swap out back covers and accessories easily. Stainless steel screws secure the back cover, which you can remove with an included tool.

The interchangeable covers are available in Orange, Light Green, and Blue (exclusive to India), allowing users to refresh the phone's look without a major expense. The Blue and Orange covers feature vegan leather, while the Black and Light Green options offer textured plastic, both with fingerprint and smudge resistance. While this modularity is primarily aesthetic, it offers an easy fix for scuffs and scratches. A back cover replacement costs just $29, adding practical value to its customizable gimmick.

Despite its modular nature, the CMF Phone 1 boasts IP52 water and dust resistance, a surprising feat for a phone in this price range. Measuring 77 x 164 x 8mm and weighing 197g, the phone feels solid in hand, with a thoughtful design that belies its budget positioning.