Review of CMF Phone 1

Jul 8, 2024

Review of CMF Phone 1

Introduction

  • CMF Phone 1 by Nothing: Budget sub-brand of Nothing focused on software and design.
  • Price: $200
  • Main Appeal: Unique design and solid software.

Design

  • Visuals: Flat sides, average bezels, big AMOLED display, dual cameras on the back.
  • Unique Features:
    • Removable and replaceable back: Available in multiple colors (black, orange, blue, light blue).
    • Metal screws: All around the outside for the removable back.
    • Dial/Knob: Located at the bottom corner for mounting accessories (kickstand, card holder wallet, lanyard). Not a volume knob or fidget toy.

Accessories and Customization

  • Tools Provided: Orange combo SIM ejector tool and flathead screwdriver.
  • Accessories for the Knob:
    • Kickstand: Prop up phone on flat surfaces.
    • Card Holder Wallet: Holds up to four cards, attaches with magnets.
    • Lanyard: Option for carrying around with secure attachment.
  • MAG Safe Compatibility: Works well with MAG safe mounts.

Hardware and Performance

  • Removable Back: Adds sturdiness despite initial flimsy feel.
  • Overall Feel: Rigid and sturdy once back is attached.
  • Usage Experience: Feels very similar to using a more premium Nothing phone.
  • Software: Running Nothing OS 2.6
    • Features: Cloned apps, game mode, one-handed pull-down gesture, aesthetic icons, home screen widgets, dots font, notification history.

Display and Internals

  • Display: AMOLED, 5-700 nits typical, 2000 nits peak, adaptive 60-120 Hz refresh rate, 240 Hz touch sample rate.
  • Chip: MediaTek Dimensity 7300 5G, comparable to Snapdragon 7 Gen 1.
  • RAM Options: 6 or 8 GB.
  • Battery: 5000 mAh battery, solid battery life, supports up to 33W charging, no wireless charging.
  • Other Features: Under-screen fingerprint sensor (slower), no NFC, single mono speaker, cheap vibration motor.
  • Water Resistance: IP52 rating (splash-resistant).

Camera

  • Primary Camera: Sony IMX 882, 50 MP, serviceable photos, no OIS.
  • Secondary Sensor: Depth sensor for 2x portrait mode photos, not actively used during photo capture.

Conclusion

  • Market Target: Mainly targeted towards India.
  • Competitiveness in Market: Other phones in similar price range have the advantage of longer software updates, more features like NFC.
  • Strengths: Excellent design, genuine budget feel, smooth software experience.
  • Other Products Launched by CMF: Smartwatch ($69) and earbuds ($59).

Final Thoughts

  • Overall Impression: Engineered to look cool with good trade-offs for price.
  • User Experience: Positive, enjoyable usage with little thought of the actual price.

Review Summary: CMF Phone 1 is a budget $200 phone standing out for its design and software. Targeted towards budget markets like India, it makes commendable trade-offs while providing a smooth user experience. Accessories like the kickstand, cardholder, and lanyard through the unique knob feature add versatility. While it has some budget-related limitations, the overall package is impressive for its market segment.