According to CEO Carl Pei, Nothing’s upcoming smartphone, aptly named Phone (2), is set to launch in July, as revealed in an interview with Forbes. Pei also disclosed that the device will be powered by the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC, positioning it as a significant upgrade over Nothing’s mid-range Phone (1), although not quite reaching the level of flagship devices equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, expected in 2023.
This decision was primarily driven by cost considerations, as the company determined that the latest chip did not justify the premium price. The success of this strategy will depend on how well the pricing is aligned with consumer expectations. If the price point is attractive compared to other flagship offerings, consumers may be more willing to overlook the use of a slightly older processor. However, if the price difference is marginal, the device may face a more challenging competitive landscape.
Earlier this month, Nothing shared a teaser image, indicating that their upcoming smartphone launch campaign is underway. Following their typical approach, they are gradually revealing specifications to keep the anticipation building. In the latest update, the battery size has been disclosed, and it will be a 4,700 mAh cell. This marks a modest increase of 200 mAh compared to the battery in the Nothing Phone (1), but it falls slightly short of the current standard of 5,000 mAh found in many smartphones. The impact on battery life and endurance will need to be assessed once the device is available for testing.
As we approach the launch of the Nothing Phone (2), it will be intriguing to see how the device fares in terms of its overall value proposition. The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC should still offer commendable performance, and if the pricing strikes the right balance, it could become an appealing option for consumers seeking a high-quality smartphone experience without breaking the bank.
