UK-based tech innovator Nothing has unveiled its latest mid-range contenders, the Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro, launched today, 4 March 2025, in Melbourne.
Promising a blend of cutting-edge features, refined design, and competitive pricing, the Phone (3a) Series aims to elevate the smartphone experience for Australian tech enthusiasts.
Pre-orders are now open for the new devices, with all the details you need to know below.
Design
The Phone (3a) Series sports a sophisticated redesign with premium glass back panels and enhanced symmetry in its internal layout. Nothing’s signature exposed aesthetic highlights the new camera systems, paired with an IP64 rating for improved durability—an upgrade from previous models. At just 51.3 kg of CO2e, it also boasts the company’s lowest carbon footprint yet, appealing to eco-conscious Aussies.
Both models refine visual details for a premium feel, with the Phone (3a) available in Black, White, and Blue, while the Pro opts for sleek Grey and Black finishes. The engineering optimises advanced hardware integration, making these devices as functional as they are stylish. It’s a mature evolution of Nothing’s design language, perfect for those who value form and function.
Camera
Photography takes a leap forward with the Phone (3a) Series’ triple-camera system, featuring a 50MP main sensor, a Sony ultra-wide sensor, and optical zoom—a first for Nothing. The TrueLens Engine 3.0 powers it all, blending AI processing and multi-frame tech for pro-grade, true-to-life shots. Both models shine, but their telephoto capabilities set them apart.
The Phone (3a)’s telephoto camera packs a 50MP sensor with a 50mm focal length, f/2.0 aperture, and 2x optical zoom, scaling up to 30x ultra zoom with AI enhancements. Meanwhile, the Phone (3a) Pro’s periscope camera ups the ante with a 1/1.95-inch Sony LYTIA 600 sensor, 70mm focal length, and f/2.55 aperture, offering 3x optical zoom and an impressive 60x ultra zoom. The Pro also introduces telemacro capture, focusing as close as 15cm—perfect for detailed close-ups.
The main camera on the Phone (3a) uses a Samsung-co-engineered 50MP sensor with on-sensor deep learning for clarity and noise reduction. The Pro version enhances this with 43% faster autofocus and double the pixel capacity for better harsh-light performance.
Rounding it out, the ultra-wide lens offers a 120° field of view with improved low-light shots, while front cameras hit 32MP on the (3a) and 50MP on the Pro, the latter supporting 4K video with adaptive AI stabilization.
Performance
Under the hood, the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 Mobile Platform drives both devices, delivering a 33% faster CPU and 11% better graphics via the Qualcomm Adreno GPU compared to the Phone (2a). Gamers will love the stable frame rates and Snapdragon Elite Gaming features typically reserved for flagships. It’s a powerhouse built for speed and longevity.
AI processing jumps 92% over its predecessor, future-proofing the Phone (3a) Series for emerging tech demands. Nothing OS optimisations, including on-device voice-to-text transcription, pair with a RAM Booster offering up to 20GB of combined physical and virtual RAM. A 4,500mm² vapor chamber cuts temperatures by 23%, ensuring smooth performance during intense use.
Battery and Charging
Battery life gets a boost with 5000mAh capacities in both models, promising up to two days of use on a single charge. The Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 sips 8% less power, adding 30 minutes of daily uptime over the Phone (2a). Fast charging now hits 50W, juicing up to 50% in under 20 minutes—ideal for busy Aussies on the go.
Display
The 6.77-inch Full HD+ displays on both phones offer crisp visuals at 387 PPI and a fluid 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. Touch sampling ramps up to 480Hz standard (1000Hz in Gaming Mode), doubling the Phone (2a)’s responsiveness for seamless swipes and taps. Peak brightness soars to 3000 nits—a 131% jump—making these screens shine even under Australia’s harsh sun.
Slightly taller with less rounded corners, the displays exude a confident, second-generation maturity. Auto brightness climbs to 1300 nits for outdoor clarity.
The phone features a flagship-sized canvas that balances quality and immersion perfectly.
Nothing OS
Built on Android 15, Nothing OS 3.1 delivers a fast, stable, and customisable experience with updates to Gallery, Camera, and Weather apps. Users can tweak everything—monochromatic themes, hidden app labels, and custom lock screens—while the Phone (3a) Pro adds eSIM support (excluding India). Six years of updates (three Android, six security) ensure these phones stay fresh through 2031.
Essential Space (Early Access)
Essential Space, an AI-powered hub for notes and ideas, debuts in early access for Phone (3a) buyers. Capture content effortlessly with the Essential Key—press to save, long-press for voice notes, or double-tap to browse.
Upcoming features like Camera Capture and Smart Collections will roll out soon, shaped by Nothing’s community feedback.
Availability and Pricing
Aussies can pre-order the Phone (3a) and (3a) Pro from 9:30pm AEDT tonight via JB Hi-Fi online, with open sales starting 11 March for the (3a) and 25 March for the Pro.
The Phone (3a) comes in 8+128GB (A$599) and 12+256GB (A$689) variants, while the Pro offers 12+256GB for A$849.
Final Thoughts
The Nothing Phone (3a) Series blends premium features with mid-range pricing, making it a compelling pick for Australian buyers. From its standout cameras and robust Snapdragon performance to its eco-friendly design and long-term support, it’s a device that punches above its weight. Whether you’re a photographer, gamer, or sustainability fan, the Phone (3a) and (3a) Pro deserve a spot on your radar.
At A$599-A$849, these phones deliver flagship-grade perks without breaking the bank. Pre-order now to snag early access to Essential Space and secure your unit before the rush. Nothing continues to make tech fun—and functional—for Aussies in 2025.
