Nothing is once again making waves in the smartphone market, this time with a focus on delivering a refined Android experience that doesn’t come with a flagship price tag. The latest addition to their lineup, the Nothing Phone 4b, builds on the success of the Phone 4a series, introducing a range of enhancements that were previously reserved for higher-end models. This includes the integration of a Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 chip, an upgraded Glyph Interface, and the largest battery yet offered by the brand.
What you need to know
- Nothing’s Phone 4b brings a Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 chip, refined Glyph Interface, and Nothing’s biggest battery yet to a more affordable price point.
- The phone sports a 6.77-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, a 5,200mAh battery, IP64 durability, and a transparent design that stays true to Nothing’s signature look.
- A 50MP OIS main camera, ultrawide lens, Ultra XDR processing, and 4K video recording aim to deliver a flagship-like photography experience without the flagship price.
The Phone 4b showcases a design that merges the Glyph Bar from the Phone 4a with the unibody aesthetics of the Phone 4a Pro, resulting in what the company describes as its cleanest design yet. The transparent casing remains a hallmark of Nothing’s identity, while the device boasts an IP64 rating for dust and water resistance, and is engineered to endure up to 600N of bending force. Available in black, white, and blue, it caters to a variety of style preferences.
Running on Android 16, the Phone 4b features Nothing’s distinctive interface enhancements, complemented by a comprehensive suite of Essential AI tools. Users can expect native ChatGPT integration, Google Gemini, Circle to Search, and the Essential Key for quick access to AI-driven functionalities such as Essential Space and Essential Search. Notably, Nothing commits to providing three years of Android OS updates and six years of security patches, positioning the Phone 4b as a long-term investment in the budget segment.
In a nod to sports enthusiasts, Nothing is also unveiling a limited edition Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Edition to commemorate the cricket club’s second IPL title. This special variant features a striking red finish adorned with custom branding and will be available in exclusive packaging. Initially, it will be offered through a special drop at the company’s flagship store in Bengaluru. The Phone 4b is priced starting at £299 (€329), equipped with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage.
Android Central’s Take
The commitment to six years of security patches is a significant advantage for budget-conscious consumers, encouraging the industry to view affordable smartphones as long-term investments rather than disposable gadgets. While Nothing does not claim to have revolutionized the smartphone landscape, the Phone 4b’s 5,200mAh battery paired with a 33W charging speed does not push the envelope in terms of innovation. In a market where budget devices often take bold risks with specifications, the Phone 4b presents a solid software experience wrapped in an eye-catching design. However, when the dazzling LED marketing is stripped away, it reveals itself as another midrange contender striving to position itself as a flagship alternative.
