The Nothing Phone 3a series is officially launching on March 4, and the company has already started revealing key details about its upcoming smartphones. CEO Carl Pei confirmed that the new lineup will feature a Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset, marking a shift from the MediaTek Dimensity processors used in its predecessor, the Nothing Phone 2a series. The brand also promises major upgrades in CPU performance and artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities.
Snapdragon Chipset
In a recent community post, Pei stated, “I’m happy to announce that we are going back to the Qualcomm Snapdragon series with the Phone (3a).” While he did not specify which Snapdragon processor will be used, he did mention that the CPU would be 25% faster and the neural processing unit (NPU) would be 72% faster than that of the Nothing Phone 2a Plus.
Rumors suggest that the Nothing Phone 3a could be powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset, a solid mid-range processor known for its efficiency and AI capabilities. This would be a significant step up in performance compared to the previous Dimensity chips.
Expected Specifications
The Nothing Phone 3a is expected to bring a host of improvements over its predecessor. Here’s a look at the rumored specifications:
| Feature | Expected Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 |
| Display | 6.8-inch FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate |
| Operating System | Nothing OS 3.1 (Android 15) |
| NPU | 72% faster than Phone 2a Plus |
| CPU | 25% faster than Phone 2a Plus |
| Special Feature | Glyph Interface |
| Additional Button | Rumored action or camera button |
One of the most interesting rumors about the Phone 3a is the addition of a new button on the right side of the device. While its exact purpose remains unknown, speculation suggests it could be a dedicated camera button or an action button for AI-related tasks.
Design and Glyph Interface
Nothing has maintained a unique design identity with its transparent back panels and Glyph Interface, and the Phone 3a is expected to retain these signature elements. The Glyph Interface, known for its customizable LED light notifications, could see new functionalities in this iteration, possibly integrating with AI features for smarter notifications and interactions.
Manufacturing in India
Nothing has confirmed that the Phone 3a series will be assembled at its manufacturing plant in Chennai, India. The facility employs over 500 workers, with women making up 95% of the workforce. While it is currently unclear whether these units will be sold exclusively in India or also exported to global markets, this move aligns with the company’s efforts to expand local production.
Launch and Availability
With just a few weeks left until the official unveiling, excitement is building around the Nothing Phone 3a series. If the leaked specifications hold true, this could be one of the most compelling mid-range smartphones of the year. The shift back to Qualcomm, coupled with AI advancements and a refined design, positions the Phone 3a as a strong contender in its segment.
FAQs
What processor will the Nothing Phone 3a use?
It is rumored to feature the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset.
Will the Nothing Phone 3a have the Glyph Interface?
Yes, it is expected to retain the Glyph Interface with improvements.
What is the new button on the Nothing Phone 3a for?
It might be an action button or a dedicated camera button.
Where is the Nothing Phone 3a being manufactured?
It is being assembled at a factory in Chennai, India.
When will the Nothing Phone 3a launch?
The Nothing Phone 3a series will launch on March 4, 2025.
