Source: CMF
CMF, a sub-brand of Nothing, has released its first budget phone, the CMF Phone 1, on Flipkart in India. The starting price for the 6 GB RAM variant is Rs. 15,999 ($199 in the US) and Rs. 17,999 for the 8 GB RAM version.
The company is also introducing a selection of add-ons designed to complement the smartphone. Users can choose from three accessories: a neck strap, a phone stand, and a wallet attachment, each retailing for Rs. 799.
A unique aspect of this device is its customisable exterior. The back panel can be removed and swapped out, allowing users to change their phone’s appearance without needing a new device or traditional case. These interchanging panels come in four hues, each priced at Rs. 1,499 ($35 in the US): navy, onyx, tangerine, and mint.
The company thoughtfully includes a small tool for easy panel removal with each purchase. A power adapter is available separately for those needing one. Priced at 799 rupees, this charger is specifically marketed towards new users.
However, if you’re looking to change the batteries yourself on Phone 1, you will be a bit disappointed. Here’s what the CMF spokesperson has to say about this when asked by the Wired: “We do not provide battery parts to users and do not encourage users to remove the battery. We have marked warnings on the PET film reminding users not to remove the battery.”
The smartphone boasts a 6.7-inch screen diagonally and utilises AMOLED technology, delivering Full HD+ resolution. Users can enjoy fluid interactions thanks to the display’s ability to refresh at 120 Hz.
The phone is quite sufficient in terms of brightness. Under typical conditions, it can reach 700 mits, while its peak output climbs to 2000 nits, which is more than enough for various workflows. This range ensures clear visibility across various environments, from dimly lit rooms to bright-coloured outdoor settings.
The device’s design incorporates a small circular cutout in the display for the front-facing camera. As for its construction, the body is crafted from plastic materials with two finishes: a sleek matte texture or a more premium leather-like surface.
A standout feature of CMF Phone 1 is its interchangeable rear panel. This design decision brings a fresh level of personalisation to the budget-friendly segment of the market. Users can swap out the back cover, choosing from a variety of hues to suit their style.
Each replacement panel incorporates a circular element. While some may have initially thought this wheel-like component was designed for fidgeting or interaction, its true purpose is more practical. It serves as a connection point for various add-ons, expanding the phone’s versatility.
For instance, users can attach a neck strap or a desktop stand to its circular mechanism. This innovative approach allows the device to adapt to different usage scenarios, from hands-free carrying to convenient desktop viewing.
At the heart of CMF, Phone 1 lies MediaTek Dimensity 7300, which efficiently handles daily tasks and casual to moderate gaming. The device comes preloaded with the latest Android 14 operating system. The manufacturer pledges to offer Android updates for two years, which means users can anticipate receiving up to Android 16 on the phone.
Additionally, the company promises to provide security patches for an extended period of three years.
CMF Phone 1 features a battery capacity of 5,000 mAh. This sizeable battery will support users throughout their daily activities without frequent recharging. Regarding replenishing the battery, the device offers charging at 33 watts. However, the company has not included a fast charger with the phone. Instead, customers can purchase it as a separate accessory.
Many manufacturers now exclude power adapters from their standard packaging to reduce electronic waste. The trend originated from Apple and has now spread to other manufacturers.
CMF Phone 1 sports two cameras on its rear panel, with the main shooter boasting a resolution of 50 megapixels. This camera system is engineered to produce high-quality images across different lighting scenarios. For those who enjoy self-portraits or video chatting, the front-facing camera offers a 16-megapixel sensor.
Here is the revised table, focusing on the core specifications and features of the CMF Phone 1:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.7-inch AMOLED, FHD+ resolution, 120Hz refresh rate |
| Brightness | 700 nits (typical), 2000 nits (peak) |
| Processor | MediaTek Dimensity 7300 |
| Operating system | Android 14 |
| OS updates | 2 years (up to Android 16) |
| Security patches | 3 years |
| Battery capacity | 5,000 mAh |
| Charging support | 33W fast charging |
| Rear cameras | Dual setup, 50-megapixel main sensor |
| Front camera | 16-megapixel sensor |
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