Unveiling the Phone 3a Pro Design: Why Some Users Might Not Love It

Nothing, the smartphone company founded by Carl Pei, is launching its third generation of Android phones. The Nothing Phone 3a and 3a Pro will be revealed on March 4. We already know quite a bit about them, thanks to teasers and a recent video showcasing the design of the Nothing Phone 3a Pro. In this video, the design team discusses their creative process, particularly around the phone’s big camera module, which is sure to spark varied opinions.

As we near two decades since the iPhone popularized touchscreen smartphones, many devices tend to look similar—thin, plain designs often hidden under cases. Most users cover their phones with plastic that rarely comes off. In contrast, Nothing embraces a different approach, using clear panels and distinctive ‘Glyph’ lights that catch the eye. The 3a Pro features a notably large camera module that’s hard to miss.

Today’s users typically want large screens and strong batteries without making their phones bulky. Many components have been minimized or eliminated—goodbye, headphone jack! However, camera modules still face size limitations. While smaller lenses can impact image quality, premium phones now come with hefty camera systems that can throw off the balance of the device. For instance, look at the Google Pixel 9 series, which boasts a prominent camera bump.

The Nothing Phone 3a Pro isn’t a top-tier model, but it packs more cameras than the 3a. The design video reveals three rear cameras: a 50MP primary, an 8MP ultrawide, and another 50MP periscope telephoto lens. The back of the 3a Pro features three glowing Glyphs framing the sizable camera module. Additionally, adjustments were made to the phone’s PCB to accommodate the thicker periscope setup, further emphasizing its unique design.