By Ellite Times Team 
Introduction
Nothing, yet again, has set itself apart from the competition who fail to differentiate their smartphones as it is all too common to see similar designs and features across various brands, with the release of its latest models. During the Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona, the company unveiled two new models from the Nothing Phone series: the Nothing Phone 3a and 3a Pro, both noted for their distinctive looks and groundbreaking innovations.
Design and Aesthetic Appeal
Nothing’s trademark design is semi transparent and the Nothing Phone 3a and 3a Pro are no different, with LEDs skillfully glyph arranged on the back of the phones. It is remarkable how both models share this futuristic look, but are not just mere variants of each other. The Nothing Phone 3a Pro sports a semi-circular camera array, whereas the standard Phone 3a opts for a horizontal alignment for its camera placement.
To cater to that particular echelon, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro comes in Grey and Black while the Phone 3a is offered in Black, White, and Blue (this Blue variant is not sold in the U.S.). The brand’s cool and modern appeal is evident even in the packaging.
Display and Performance
Both the Nothing Phone 3a and 3a Pro have the same specifications and features as all of their successors with a 6.77-inch AMOLED display and a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. They are loaded with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7S Gen 3 chipset along with an 8GB or 12GB RAM variant and 128GB or 256GB storage option depending on region and choice. The new processor offers a performance boost, allowing these devices to operate 33% faster than predecessors, the Nothing Phone 2a.
For gaming fans, the addition of the 4,500mm² vapor chamber along with the RAM Booster feature that supports up to 20GB provides full stability when it comes to frame rates during gameplay and even enhances graphics.
Battery and Charging
Charging rates, as well as battery life, tend to leave users impressed. Both devices possess a 5,000mAh battery with fast charging abilities at 50W. But users may be left disappointed with the absence of wireless charging. In addition, the phones are equipped with IP64 rated water and dust resistance. They are able to withstand water splashes, but users shouldn’t go underwater.
Camera Capabilities
Both models of cameras are distinguished with one standing out more than others:
Nothing Phone 3a: Comes with a 50MP main camera, and an 8MP ultra wide lens and telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom.
Nothing Phone 3a Pro: Comes with a 50MP main camera, 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a top of the line 40MP periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom.
The Phone 3a Pro has a 50MP selfie camera with the Phone 3a having a 32MP front camera. Both devices use AI Image Processing Technology to improve the image quality of pictures taken in different lighting scenarios.
Software and Unique Features
The Nothing Phones run on Android 15 with Nothing OS 3.1, which provides a minimalistic UI to match the sophistication of the devices. One feature that stands out is Essential Space, an AI-driven note-taking JPG file easily accessible via the device’s dedicated Essential Key.
Though, users can expect some bugs at launch since the Space will be set in “Early Access” mode.
Software Maintenance and Lifespan
Nothing guarantees six years of security updates for these models but only three years of Android updates. This is a shift from the norm unlike Google and Samsung which now provide up to seven years of both security and OS updates. This additional support does help in some ways, but again further Android upgrades would add more value for customers planning to use it for the long haul.
Pricing and Availability
Nothing Phone 3a and 3a Pro are set to launch in selected regions globally, but will release first in Europe with prices set as below:
Nothing Phone 3a:
8GB RAM +
128GB storage: €329/£329
12GB RAM +
256GB storage: €379/£379/$379 (US variant)
Nothing Phone 3a Pro:
12GB RAM + 256GB storage: €459/£449/$459
Officially the smartphones will be available from March 11 (Phone 3a) and March 25 (Phone 3a Pro), but fans will have early access starting March 8 at the Nothing Store Soho in London. The rest of the US will only get the phones via Nothings Beta program.
Conclusion
In addition, the Nothing Phone 3a and 3a Pro comes with competitive pricing and a thoughtful design which looks visually appealing and functions exceptionally well. Even though these models don’t compete with flagship phones at the same level, they find a place in the market for users who want one of a kind design and processed software. On the other hand, the smartphone’s absence of clear upgrade policies and no wireless charging features may prove to be much for some. In summary, Nothing has made another stride in smartphone designs with this model, reinforcing their identity as a company that stands out.