The Nothing CMF Phone 1 marks an exciting entry into the midrange smartphone market, a segment where affordability meets functionality. This device is aimed at budget-conscious consumers who crave a premium experience without the flagship price tag.
The CMF Phone 1 will appeal to users who prioritize a sleek design, robust performance, and a vibrant display. However, those who demand top-tier camera performance or wireless charging might want to explore higher-end options.
Body and Build
The Nothing CMF Phone 1 features a blend of materials and a unique design that sets it apart from other midrange competitors. With dimensions of 164.0×77.0×8.2 mm and weighing between 197 g and 202 g, the phone strikes a balance between being substantial and comfortably portable.
The glass front offers a premium touch, while the plastic or eco-leather back provides durability and a choice of aesthetic preferences. The user-replaceable back, secured with stainless steel screws, is a notable feature for those who appreciate the option for easy customization and repairs. Available in Black, Blue, Light Green, and Orange, the CMF Phone 1 offers a variety of colors to match personal styles.
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | CMF Phone 1 |
|---|---|
| General |
|
| Dimensions | H: 164 mm (6.46″), W: 77 mm (3.03″), D: 8.2 mm (0.32″) |
| Mass |
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| Material | Glass front; back:
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| Colors | Black, Blue, Light Green, Orange |
With those dimensions and weight range, the Nothing CMF Phone 1 strikes a balance between size and comfort. The phone's moderate thickness of 8.2 mm allows for a sleek profile that feels comfortable in hand, while the width and height provide ample screen real estate without being overly cumbersome.
The weight distribution and overall ergonomics make the phone comfortable to hold for extended periods. It's not too heavy to cause strain, and the dimensions are well-suited for one-handed use, although those with smaller hands might find it a bit large.
At around 200 grams, the CMF Phone 1 is light enough to carry in a pocket or bag without feeling burdensome. It's a practical weight for daily carry, providing a sense of durability without compromising portability.
The Nothing CMF Phone 1 offers two back material options: plastic and eco-leather (silicone polymer). Plastic is lightweight and durable. It is resistant to shattering, making it a practical choice for users who prioritize durability. It also allows for more color variations and can be easily molded into different textures and finishes. However, it can sometimes feel less premium compared to other materials like glass and metal. It may be prone to scratches and might not have the same tactile appeal as higher-end materials.
On the other hand, eco-leather, made from silicone polymer, offers a more premium feel with its soft and smooth texture. It provides a better grip, reducing the chances of accidental drops. It also adds an element of luxury and can be more comfortable to hold for extended periods. However, it might be less durable than plastic in terms of resistance to scratches and wear over time.
The CMF Phone 1's user-replaceable back is a significant feature. You can easily swap the back cover to change your phone's appearance, allowing for personal customization without the need for additional accessories. The user-replaceable back also makes it easier to repair or replace the back cover if it gets damaged, reducing the need for professional repairs and potentially lowering maintenance costs. This feature can extend the phone's lifespan, as you can replace the worn-out or damaged back rather than replacing the entire device, contributing to a more sustainable product lifecycle.
The Nothing CMF Phone 1 is available in Black, Blue, Light Green, and Orange, each catering to different personalities and styles:
- Black: A classic and versatile choice, Black suits professionals and those who prefer a sleek, understated look. It's timeless and sophisticated, ideal for users who want a phone that looks good in any setting.
- Blue: A calming and stylish option, Blue appeals to users who want a pop of color without being too bold. It's perfect for those who enjoy a bit of flair while maintaining a sense of calm and cool.
- Light Green: Fresh and modern, Light Green is for the trendsetters who enjoy standing out with a unique, refreshing look. It's vibrant yet soothing, making it a great choice for the young and the young at heart.
- Orange: Bold and energetic, Orange is for those who love to make a statement. It's lively and dynamic, perfect for users with a spirited and adventurous personality.
In summary, the Nothing CMF Phone 1's body design and material options are thoughtfully crafted to provide both style and functionality. Its dimensions and weight make it a comfortable and easily portable device, while the choice between plastic and eco-leather backs allows you to select according to your preferences for durability and feel.
The user-replaceable back adds a layer of customization and practicality, enhancing the phone's overall appeal. With a range of color options, the CMF Phone 1 caters to a variety of tastes, ensuring that there's a perfect match for every personality.
IP Rating
(Related: IP ratings explained.)
The Nothing CMF Phone 1's IP52 rating ensures resistance against dust and splashes, making it a reliable companion for everyday use.
The "IP" in IP52 stands for "Ingress Protection", with the first digit representing protection against solids and the second digit indicating protection against liquids. In the case of the Nothing CMF Phone 1:
- The first digit "5" signifies protection against solids. Specifically, it means the CMF Phone 1 is protected against dust ingress to a limited extent. While it may not be completely dustproof, it offers a level of protection against dust particles that could potentially harm the device's internal components.
- The second digit "2" denotes protection against liquids. This indicates that the CMF Phone 1 is protected against dripping water when tilted up to 15 degrees from its normal position. While it may withstand light splashes and rain, it's not fully waterproof or submersible for extended periods.
Compared to the phones flaunting higher ratings like IP68 (which offers complete dust protection and allows for continuous immersion in water), the IP52 rating of the Nothing CMF Phone 1 provides more modest protection against environmental elements. To protect your device from environmental elements, you can take several precautions:
- Use a Protective Case: A durable and shock-absorbent protective case can provide an additional layer of protection against drops, impacts, and scratches. Look for cases specifically designed for the Nothing CMF Phone 1's form factor to ensure a snug fit and access to ports and buttons.
- Apply a Screen Protector: A screen protector can help safeguard the display against scratches, smudges, and minor impacts. Choose a high-quality screen protector made from tempered glass or durable film for optimal protection.
- Avoid Exposure to Extreme Conditions: While the CMF Phone 1 is designed to withstand everyday use, it's best to avoid exposing it to dusty environments and high humidity for extended periods. These conditions can potentially damage the device or affect its performance over time. Pay particular attention to dust accumulating in the screws on the back cover of the phone.
By taking these precautions and investing in protective accessories such as a case and screen protector, you can help prolong the life of your CMF Phone 1 and reduce the likelihood of damage from environmental elements.
Display
(Related: Know more about the various kinds of displays and screen specs.)
One of the standout features of the CMF Phone 1 is its display. The 6.67-inch Super AMOLED screen boasts a 120 Hz refresh rate, providing smooth and responsive interactions. With HDR10+ support and a peak brightness of 2000 nits, the display offers vibrant colors and deep contrasts, making media consumption a delight. The 1080×2400 pixel resolution at a 20:9 aspect ratio delivers sharp visuals, and the 240 Hz touch sampling rate enhances the responsiveness.
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | CMF Phone 1 |
|---|---|
| Size | 6.67″ (169 mm) diagonal |
| Type | Super AMOLED, 120 Hz |
| Resolution (px) | 1080×2400, about 395 PPI |
| Brightness | Typical: 500 nits; Peak: 2000 nits |
| Features | 1000000:1 contrast ratio, HDR10+, 240 Hz touch sampling rate, Always-On |
The display is one of the standout features of the Nothing CMF Phone 1, offering a combination of advanced technology and thoughtful design that enhances the overall user experience. Super AMOLED (Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode) technology is known for its vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast ratios. Unlike traditional LCD screens, Super AMOLED panels integrate the touch sensors into the display itself, resulting in a thinner profile and more efficient power consumption.
Super AMOLED displays are renowned for their ability to produce vivid and saturated colors, making images and videos look more lifelike and engaging. Each pixel on an AMOLED display emits its own light, allowing for true black levels by turning off individual pixels. This results in excellent contrast and better clarity in dark scenes. Also, by only lighting up necessary pixels, Super AMOLED screens can be more power-efficient, especially when displaying darker images or using dark mode themes.
The 120 Hz refresh rate means the display refreshes 120 times per second, making animations, scrolling, and transitions appear smoother and more fluid. This is particularly noticeable in gaming and fast-paced applications. This higher refresh rate reduces motion blur, providing a clearer and more enjoyable viewing experience, especially for action-packed content.
The Full HD+ resolution of 1080×2400 pixels, with a pixel density of approximately 395 PPI (pixels per inch), ensures that images and text are sharp and clear. This high resolution makes watching videos, browsing the web, and reading text comfortable and visually pleasing. The 20:9 aspect ratio provides a tall and narrow screen, which is ideal for immersive media consumption and fits comfortably in hand.
At a typical brightness level of 500 nits, the display is bright enough for most indoor and outdoor conditions, ensuring good visibility in a variety of lighting environments. The peak brightness of 2000 nits is exceptional, making it one of the brightest displays available. This is particularly useful for viewing the screen under direct sunlight or in very bright conditions, maintaining clarity and readability.
The contrast ratio of 1000000:1 in the CMF Phone 1 contributes to stunning visual depth. The high contrast ratio allows for deep blacks and bright whites, making images pop with vibrancy and detail. It also makes the visuals more lifelike, adding a sense of depth and realism to everything displayed on the screen.
HDR10+ support allows the display to show a broader range of colors and contrast, resulting in more detailed and dynamic images. This is particularly beneficial when watching HDR content, where the added depth and realism significantly enhance the viewing experience. With HDR10+, you can enjoy a higher dynamic range in supported content, meaning brighter highlights and deeper shadows, providing a more lifelike and immersive visual experience.
The touch sampling rate measures how often the screen registers touch input. A higher sampling rate like 240 Hz translates to more responsive and accurate touch interactions, which is crucial for gaming and other applications that require quick and precise touch input. Gamers will particularly appreciate this feature, as it reduces input lag, allowing for faster and more accurate responses during gameplay.
The Always-On Display feature keeps essential information like time, date, notifications, and battery status visible at all times, even when the phone is in sleep mode. This allows you to glance at the phone for updates without fully waking it.
In conclusion, the Nothing CMF Phone 1's display is a testament to modern smartphone technology, combining the best of Super AMOLED technology with advanced features that enhance usability and enjoyment. The 120 Hz refresh rate, coupled with a high resolution and exceptional brightness levels, ensures a top-notch visual experience. HDR10+ support brings content to life with richer colors and deeper contrasts, while the 240 Hz touch sampling rate provides unparalleled responsiveness.
The Always-On Display feature adds a layer of convenience, keeping you informed with just a glance. Overall, the display of the Nothing CMF Phone 1 is not just a screen but a window to a superior and immersive smartphone experience.
Networks
(Related: Cellular networks explained.)
Networking is the invisible thread that connects us all in the digital world! The Nothing CMF Phone 1, with its support for the networking quartet of GSM, HSPA, LTE, and 5G technologies, is like a well-connected socialite in the world of networks.
GSM and HSPA are the stalwarts, providing 2G and 3G connectivity, respectively. Then there's LTE, the foundation of modern 4G networks, delivering faster internet speeds and improved call quality. And of course, the star of the show - 5G. It's the future, promising blazing-fast download and upload speeds, reduced latency, and a world of possibilities for future applications.
SIM
The Nothing CMF Phone 1 supports dual Nano-SIM (dual stand-by). This capability adds a layer of convenience for those juggling work and personal life on a single device.
Chipset - Performance
Under the hood, the Nothing CMF Phone 1 is powered by the Mediatek Dimensity 7300 chipset, offering impressive performance and energy efficiency. The octa-core CPU, consisting of two types of cores, handles multitasking and demanding applications with ease. The Mali-G615 MC2 GPU ensures smooth graphics performance, making it suitable for casual gaming. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | CMF Phone 1 |
|---|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 7300 (4 nm) |
| CPU | Octa-core (4×2.5 GHz Cortex-A78 + 4×2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| GPU | Mali-G615 MC2 |
The Nothing CMF Phone 1 is powered by the Mediatek Dimensity 7300 chipset, an impressive piece of technology designed to deliver robust performance across a range of tasks. This one is a 4-nm chipset, indicating a highly advanced manufacturing process that enhances efficiency and performance. The 4-nm process allows for greater power efficiency, leading to better battery life. With advanced processing capabilities, this chipset handles everything from everyday tasks to more demanding applications with ease.
The octa-core CPU inside the CMF Phone 1 is a symphony of power and energy efficiency, featuring two distinct types of cores:
- Cortex-A78 (4×2.5 GHz): Imagine these as the sprinters in a marathon. The four Cortex-A78 cores kick into high gear when you demand raw power, handling intensive tasks like gaming, photo editing, and app launches with lightning speed.
- Cortex-A55 (4×2.0 GHz): Now, think of these as the marathon runners. The four Cortex-A55 cores handle everyday tasks with energy efficiency. From browsing the web to checking emails, they ensure a smooth and power-saving experience.
Driving the graphics performance of the CMF Phone 1 is the Mali-G615 MC2 GPU, designed to deliver immersive visuals and smooth gaming experiences. The Mali-G615 MC2 GPU boasts advanced graphics rendering capabilities, enabling you to enjoy high-fidelity graphics, fluid animations, and responsive gameplay. Whether you're playing graphically demanding games or streaming multimedia content, the Mali-G615 MC2 GPU ensures that the visuals are rendered with stunning detail and realism.
In summary, the Nothing CMF Phone 1 offers solid performance and is well-suited for everyday tasks while providing enhanced capabilities for gaming, multitasking, and more demanding applications. This phone is designed to meet the needs of the average user, ensuring that you get the right level of performance for your moderate requirements.
Memory and Storage
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | CMF Phone 1 |
|---|---|
| Memory Card Slot | microSDXC |
| RAM / Internal Storage Variants | 6 GB / 128 GB, 8 GB / 128 GB, 8 GB / 256 GB |
The CMF Phone 1 caters to different storage needs with three variants, not all of which are available in all markets. The inclusion of a microSDXC card slot allows for expandable storage, giving you the flexibility to store more apps, photos, and videos without worrying about space.
Cameras
The dual-camera setup on the CMF Phone 1 is designed to capture detailed and vibrant photos. The primary 50 MP wide camera ensures sharp and clear images, even in low light conditions. The 2 MP depth sensor assists in achieving professional-looking portrait shots with a pleasing bokeh effect. For video enthusiasts, the main camera supports 4K recording at 30 fps and 1080p at 30/60 fps, equipped with gyro-EIS for stable footage.
The 16 MP front camera handles selfies and video calls effortlessly, offering 1080p video recording at 30 fps.
Rear Camera
The Nothing CMF Phone 1's main camera setup includes a dual-lens system designed to deliver versatile and high-quality photography and videography experiences. Let's dive into the roles of the two lenses and the features that enhance the camera's capabilities. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | CMF Phone 1 |
|---|---|
| Number of Cameras | 2 (Dual) |
| Resolution (Megapixels) | 50 MP (wide, Sony sensor), 2 MP (depth) |
| Aperture | f/1.8, f/2.4 |
| Autofocus | PDAF, N/A |
| Video Recording | 4K at 30 fps, 1080p at 30/60 fps, gyro-EIS |
| Other Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
The 50 MP wide lens serves as the primary camera. With its high resolution, it captures detailed and crisp images. The wide aperture of f/1.8 allows more light to enter the sensor, which is beneficial for low-light photography, enabling clearer and brighter shots in darker environments. This lens is suitable for a variety of photography scenarios, including landscapes, portraits, and everyday snapshots, thanks to its wide field of view and high resolution.
The 2 MP depth sensor is designed to capture depth information, which is crucial for creating bokeh effects in portrait photography. This sensor helps distinguish the subject from the background, resulting in a professional-looking blur effect that enhances the subject's prominence.
Among the camera features, the PDAF (Phase Detection Auto Focus) technology allows the camera to quickly and accurately focus on subjects, reducing the time it takes to lock onto a subject and ensuring sharp, in-focus images. This is particularly useful for capturing moving subjects or when shooting in dynamic environments. With PDAF, you can rely on the camera to automatically adjust focus with speed and precision, making photography more intuitive and less frustrating.
Gyro-EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) helps reduce camera shake and motion blur in video recordings, resulting in smoother and more stable footage. This is achieved by using data from the phone's gyroscope to compensate for unwanted movements during recording. Whether recording while walking or in a moving vehicle, gyro-EIS ensures that videos remain steady and professional-looking, enhancing the overall video quality and viewing experience.
The LED flash provides additional light in low-light conditions, helping to illuminate subjects and reduce noise in photos taken in the dark. It ensures that details are visible and colors remain true even in challenging lighting environments. The flash can be used in various modes, such as auto, on, off, and torch, providing flexibility depending on the shooting scenario.
Panorama mode allows you to capture wide-angle shots by stitching together multiple images taken while panning the camera. This is ideal for landscapes, cityscapes, and large group photos where a single frame isn't sufficient to capture the entire scene. The camera software seamlessly integrates the images to create a single, expansive photo, preserving details and ensuring smooth transitions between frames.
And the HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode enhances photos by balancing the exposure in scenes with a wide range of lighting conditions. It combines multiple shots taken at different exposures to produce a single image with well-balanced highlights and shadows. HDR is particularly useful in high-contrast situations, such as backlit scenes, ensuring that both the bright and dark areas of the photo retain detail and color accuracy.
In conclusion, the main camera setup of the Nothing CMF Phone 1 is designed to provide a comprehensive and versatile photography experience. The combination of a high-resolution primary lens and a depth sensor allows you to capture detailed and aesthetically pleasing images across various scenarios.
Features like PDAF and gyro-EIS enhance the camera's performance, ensuring quick focus and stable video recording, while the LED flash, panorama mode, and HDR support add layers of functionality that cater to both novice and advanced photographers.
With these capabilities, the Nothing CMF Phone 1's camera setup is well-equipped to meet the needs of users looking for a reliable and feature-rich smartphone camera, capable of delivering high-quality photos and videos in diverse shooting conditions.
Front Camera
The selfie camera sits inside a centered punch-hole cut-out on the top of the display. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | CMF Phone 1 |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 16 MP (wide) |
| Aperture | f/2.0 |
| Video Recording | 1080p at 30 fps |
Battery and Charging
(Related: Battery specs and charging types explained.)
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | CMF Phone 1 |
|---|---|
| Battery Type | Non-removable |
| Capacity | 5000 mAh |
| Wired Charging | 33 W |
| Others | 5 W reverse wired |
Battery life is a critical factor for any smartphone, and the Nothing CMF Phone 1 does not disappoint. The 5000 mAh battery ensures long-lasting usage, easily powering through a day of heavy use. With 33 W wired charging, the phone can quickly regain power, minimizing downtime. Additionally, the 5 W reverse wired charging feature allows the phone to charge other devices, adding to its versatility.
Sound
(Related: Know more about the sound specs and features.)
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | CMF Phone 1 |
|---|---|
| Loudspeaker | Yes |
| Headphone (3.5 mm) Jack | No |
The absence of a 3.5 mm headphone jack is mitigated by the phone's robust loudspeaker, which delivers clear and loud audio for media consumption and calls. You can opt for Bluetooth headphones or adapters to enjoy your favorite tunes.
Connectivity
With support for dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, the Nothing CMF Phone 1 ensures you can connect to common Wi-Fi networks.
The CMF Phone 1 boasts Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring a seamless and high-quality connection, whether you're connecting to headphones, speakers, or other devices. With features like A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) for high-quality audio streaming and LE (Low Energy) for power efficiency, your Bluetooth experience reaches new heights.
And with a comprehensive array of positioning systems including GPS, GALILEO, GLONASS, BDS, and QZSS, you'll stay connected and on course wherever you go.
However, if NFC is on your must-have list, you might want to explore other options.
Last but not least, the trusty USB-C - the universal connector. Whether you're charging your device, transferring files, or connecting to external devices, USB Type-C ensures a reliable connection. It's the jack-of-all-trades, allowing you to expand your device's capabilities and stay connected to the wider world of technology.
Sensors and Other Features
The Nothing CMF Phone 1 comes equipped with the following sensors:
- Proximity Sensor: Detects the presence or movement of an object (say, with infrared, sound, light, or electromagnetic fields) without physically contacting it. It is used, for example, to turn off the screen when you position your device close to your ear while making a call.
- Fingerprint Sensor: Used for quick and secure unlocking. It is the in-display, optical type in the CMF Phone 1.
- Accelerometer: The accelerometer detects changes in the device's orientation and acceleration. If you tilt, shake, or move your device, the accelerometer knows.
- Compass: The compass determines your device's orientation. It is essential for navigation apps, map orientation, and augmented reality experiences.
Additionally, the back of the CMF Phone 1 features a so-called Accessory Point on the bottom-right corner, with a disk-like cover. You can use it to attach an accessory like a stand, a lanyard, or a card case to the phone.
In conclusion, the Nothing CMF Phone 1 is a compelling midrange option that brings a host of premium features at an affordable price point. Its standout AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, powerful Mediatek Dimensity 7300 chipset, versatile camera system, and user-replaceable back cover make it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking a high-quality smartphone experience.
While it lacks some high-end features like wireless charging and top-tier camera performance, the overall package is impressive for its price segment. For users looking for a stylish, reliable, and well-rounded smartphone without breaking the bank, the Nothing CMF Phone 1 is a strong contender that justifies its cost with its thoughtful design and robust feature set.
Feature (top) image credit: Nothing CMF.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Nothing CMF Phone 1 release date?
The Nothing CMF Phone 1 has been announced on the 8th July, 2024. It is expected to release later in the same month.