In a significant move, Nothing has launched its latest device, the Phone 3A Lite, which marks a return to the brand's iconic Glyph Lights. This new model, available starting today in the UK and Europe, diverges from its predecessor, the flagship Phone 3, which opted for a modern dot matrix display. However, the Phone 3A Lite uniquely features a single, small, round LED located in the bottom-right corner, reminiscent of classic notification lights.
The Nothing Phone 3A Lite retains several functionalities associated with the more sophisticated Glyph Light system. Users can enjoy the convenience of flipping the phone face-down to activate silent mode while still receiving light-only notifications. Additionally, the device allows for custom light sequences that can be assigned to specific contacts, enhancing personalization. The LED can also serve as a visual countdown for the camera timer, making it a versatile feature for photography enthusiasts.
Staying true to the Nothing aesthetic, the Phone 3A Lite is offered in classic black or white, featuring a semi-transparent rear with a striking single red accent. Although the asymmetric camera layout might not appeal to all users, many find it an improvement over the controversial design of the Phone 3. However, a notable aspect of the device is the large section on the back that seems to suggest easy access for repairs and battery replacement. According to senior global PR manager Lewis Hopkins, this is a “simulated battery design” and does not actually function as an access point.
Under the hood, the Phone 3A Lite is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Pro 5G, coupled with 8GB of RAM. Consumers can choose between two storage options: 128GB or 256GB, with the added benefit of a microSD card slot that supports up to 2TB of external storage. The device is equipped with a robust 5,000mAh battery, promising satisfactory longevity, although the 33W wired charging speed leaves room for improvement.
The phone boasts a large 6.77-inch 120Hz OLED screen, providing users with an immersive viewing experience. Furthermore, it carries an IP54 rating, ensuring a degree of water and dust resistance. When it comes to photography, the Phone 3A Lite is equipped with a 50-megapixel main camera featuring a sizable 1/1.57-inch sensor and an f/1.8 aperture, indicating that photography could be one of its standout features. However, the additional camera options include an 8-megapixel ultrawide lens, which may not impress, alongside a macro lens, while a 16-megapixel selfie camera rounds out the camera setup.
The Nothing Phone 3A Lite is now available for purchase in the UK and Europe, with pricing set at £249 / €249 (approximately $310) for the 128GB version. For those looking to upgrade to 256GB, the price is £279 / €279 (around $350). The device runs on Nothing OS 3.5, which is based on last year’s Android 15. Notably, Nothing has committed to providing three years of major Android updates and six years of security support, ensuring that users can expect longevity and reliability from their investment.
