The presentation of Nothing Phone (3) has come accompanied by intense reactions. Criticism of the design, doubts about the rear screen Glyph Matrix Instead of the classic Glyphs, and comparisons with other more powerful phones at the same price. In a new video, Carl Pei—founder of Nothing—has reacted directly, responding to many of these criticisms: "We don't make phones for everyone." Here's a recap of the highlights of his statement.
«"We wanted to do something different, not to please everyone."»
From the beginning, Carl acknowledges that the Nothing Phone (3) is not trying to please everyone: «"We started this company because we were bored with the state of the tech industry. All mobile phones were the same, and we wanted to offer something different. We knew that would generate controversy."». The criticism doesn't surprise them: they were prepared for a polarized launch.
Goodbye to the Glyphs
One of the most talked-about decisions has been the removal of the rear lights. Now, the Phone (3) opts for a pixelated black and white screen called the Glyph Matrix. Many have dismissed it as a marketing gimmick, but Carl argues that «"Change is always met with skepticism, and it is our responsibility to demonstrate that this idea has a future."».
He trusts that the community and developers will contribute useful ideas, and emphasizes that «"The cost of making software is coming down, that changes everything."». He also added that they can't add lights on top of everything that the design already has: «"There's so much on the back: the touch panel, the camera, the matrix, the flash, the red light... there's no room for more elements and it's complicated to add them."».
Controversial, but intentional design
The asymmetrical design has divided opinions, but Carl is clear: «"I don't understand why people get so emotional about a phone's design. If you don't like it, move on. And if you do like it, enjoy it. We can't please everyone."». He also explained some technical decisions, such as that «"We drilled the PCB so the camera would be more aligned. It was a compromise."». For him, the renders don't do the product justice, and he encourages people to see it in person.
«"We're not Apple, but the cost of development has dropped to almost zero."»
Carl acknowledges that, lacking the massive user base of Apple or Samsung, attracting major developers is difficult. But he compensates with optimism: «"The cost of making software has dropped so much that you can now create a lot with very few resources. We'll see a lot of creative things with the Glyph Matrix."». He believes that a "Glyph Toys" ecosystem will form thanks to the fact that now Anyone can develop using the new SDK.
«"Every time we launch something new, they hate it... and then they love it."»
It also compares the initial rejection of the Phone (3) with what happened with the model Nothing Phone (3a) Pro: «"In March everyone hated it. A few weeks later it became one of our best-selling phones."». He believes that custom plays a key role in how we perceive design.
The chip, the specs, and the eternal price debate
Many have criticized the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 for not living up to its price. Carl Pei responds bluntly: «"We're not a brand for spec-obsessed people. Our strategy is to create a complete experience, with design, software, and a balance of components."». According to him, the performance is more than enough for demanding games, and it is «"the most powerful chip we've ever used"». He acknowledges that other brands use similar chips for less money, but also points out that «"Our costs are much higher because we're small. But we're growing, and that's balancing it out."».
Nothing OS as a differentiating factor
The software remains one of its strengths. It states that «"We've worked hard to reflect our hardware design in the operating system"», and highlights features such as Essential Search or integration with AI for rapid responses. It also acknowledges a lack of communication: «"We need to make videos explaining the Glyph Matrix better."». He adds that his approach to AI is different: «"We don't want to create hype. We want it to be useful, not another marketing gimmick."».
«"You shouldn't have an emotional attachment to a brand."»
Carl Pei offers an unexpected reflection: «"We're a company, and I understand that you shouldn't have an emotional attachment to a brand. But when you try to do something different and you get constant hate, it's tough. Some colleagues have even been bullied because of the Phone (3) design."». Even so, he reaffirms his vision: for a certain type of user, Nothing is exactly what they were waiting for.
Lobster or crab?
We could summarize Nothing's philosophy with this last sentence that has gone viral on social media: «"We exist to offer something different. Not just another crab, but a lobster."».
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