Amir ZulkarnainThe tech landscape witnessed the much-anticipated arrival of the Nothing Phone (2a), a device that seamlessly marries mid-range affordability with flagship-level innovation.
Officially replacing the Phone (1), the Nothing Phone (2a) not only elevates the brand’s design ethos but also introduces groundbreaking features to the mid-range market.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.7″ AMOLED, 1084 x 2412 resolution, 394 PPI |
| Gorilla Glass 5, 30Hz-120Hz variable refresh rate, 1300 nits brightness | |
| Chipset | MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro (4nm) |
| CPU | 2x 2.8 GHz Cortex-A715 + 6x 2.0 GHz Cortex-A510 |
| GPU | Mali-G610 MC4 |
| Rear Cameras | 50 MP, f/1.88, OIS & EIS (main) |
| 50 MP, f/2.2 (ultra-wide) | |
| Features: 4K 30fps, 1080p 60fps, 1080p 120fps (Slo-Mo), TrueLens Engine, Ultra XDR, Portrait Optimiser | |
| Front Camera | 32 MP, f/2.2 |
| Audio | Stereo speakers |
| Biometrics | Under-display fingerprint scanner |
| Protection | IP54 rating for water and dust resistance |
| Battery | 5000mAh |
| Price | RM1,699 for 12GB RAM/256GB storage |
| Memory Variants | 8GB/128GB, 8GB/256GB, 12GB/256GB |
| Colors Available | Black, Milk (White) |
| Unique Features | Glyph Interface (simplified), Nothing OS, RAM Booster (adds 8GB virtual memory), Smart Clean, NTFS Optimisations, HyperEngine 5.0, AI Wallpaper Generator |
Design and Aesthetics: A Visual Spectacle
The Nothing Phone (2a) stands out with its unique transparent design, featuring the iconic Glyph Interface, albeit in a simplified form with three LED strips.
This aesthetic choice not only distinguishes it from the competition but also retains a tactile connection with the user through visual notifications and interactions.
The device boasts a 6.7″ AMOLED display, offering crisp visuals and smooth transitions courtesy of its 120Hz refresh rate, all protected under Gorilla Glass 5.
Powering Through: Performance and Efficiency
At the heart of the Nothing Phone (2a) lies the MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro chipset, chosen for its blend of power and efficiency.
This is complemented by the Mali-G610 MC4 GPU, ensuring smooth graphics and gaming experiences. Notably, the introduction of a virtual memory feature, RAM Booster, adds an extra 8GB to the existing 12GB RAM, pushing the boundaries of multitasking capabilities in the mid-range segment.
Camera Capabilities: Reframing Photography
The dual 50MP rear camera setup, including a primary and ultra-wide lens, incorporates advanced features like OIS, EIS, and 4K video recording, setting a new standard for photography in mid-range devices.
The front-facing 32MP camera ensures high-quality selfies, making no compromises on capturing moments.
Software and Exclusive Features: The Nothing Ecosystem
Running on Nothing OS, the Phone (2a) offers an intuitive user experience, enhanced by exclusive apps and features such as the Recorder and Nothing X.
The AI Wallpaper Generator stands out, allowing users to create personalized backgrounds, a feature inspired by flagship models from other brands.
Durability and Launch Offers
With an IP54 rating, the Nothing Phone (2a) promises durability against water and dust. Malaysian buyers are in for a treat with promotional bundles, including exclusive accessories for early purchases, underscoring Nothing’s commitment to value.
Priced competitively at RM1,699 for the 12/256GB variant in Malaysia, the Nothing Phone (2a) makes premium features accessible to a wider audience.
Available in black and milk colors for the Malaysian market, this device not only caters to aesthetic preferences but also ensures that technology enthusiasts can enjoy advanced features without breaking the bank.
Conclusion: A Paradigm Shift in Mid-Range Smartphones
The Nothing Phone (2a) represents a significant leap forward for the mid-range smartphone market, blending design, performance, and affordability. It challenges the notion that premium features are reserved for flagship devices, offering a compelling choice for consumers looking to upgrade their tech experience without compromising on quality or style.
With its unique design, powerful internals, and user-centric features, the Nothing Phone (2a) is set to redefine expectations, cementing Nothing’s position as a brand that innovates for everyone.