Modularity for the masses: The CMF Phone 2 Pro offers a fresh approach to smartphones, but also some uncomfortable compromises.
The CMF Phone 2 Pro mixes the rules of the mid-range: modularity, top-notch cameras, and fresh Android, all for the price of a night out on the town. If you've ever wanted a smartphone that not only follows your life, but actively complements it, the CMF Phone 2 Pro might be the best candidate. Modular flexibility, impressive cameras, and an affordable price tag put it at the top of the sub-300 euro range — though not without a few “bugs.”
Nothing aims high: CMF Phone 2 Pro
CMF, the company's colorful and playful sub-brand Nothing, has set itself a bold goal: to bring modular phones from geek labs straight into the pockets of everyday users. And with the Phone 2 Pro, they're pretty close. A basic device, priced €249 / £219 / ₹19,000 for the 128GB version, offers significantly more than you would expect for this money — a bright 120Hz AMOLED display, a triple camera, and NFC support, which was a major drawback of the previous generation.
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Display, processor and everyday performance
The CMF Phone 2 Pro features a 6.77-inch AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution, HDR10+ support, and a 120Hz refresh rate. The display reaches up to 3,000 nits of brightness, meaning you'll be able to read messages without any problems even on the sunniest afternoon. The robust Panda Glass protects against scratches and drops.
Under the hood, MediaTek's Dimensity 7300 Pro processor beats the competition, delivering 10x faster CPU performance and 5x faster graphics performance compared to its predecessor. Combined with 8GB of RAM and a choice of 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD card, the CMF Phone 2 Pro delivers smooth app performance, multitasking, and lag-free gaming.
Photographic skills that surprise
In terms of photography, the CMF Phone 2 Pro sets new standards for phones in this class. The 50MP main camera with a large 1/1.57-inch sensor captures up to 64x more light than the previous model, resulting in brighter, sharper and more vivid photos, even in challenging lighting conditions.
The 50MP telephoto lens makes an additional impression, allowing for 2x optical zoom without loss of quality. The 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens covers a 119.5-degree angle, which is enough to capture landscapes and group photos. For selfie lovers, the 16MP front camera provides enough detail for all your social media.
Modularity: An opportunity and a trap in one
The CMF Phone 2 Pro's special feature is its modular accessory system, which promises even more freedom and fun in use. Customers can upgrade their device with additional macro and fisheye lenses that can be easily installed around the main camera. For more practical users, there is also a magnetic cover that allows for attaching a wallet with a stand and an attractive orange lanyard.
That's all well and good — but there's a catch. Most of these accessories require the purchase of a special modular cover that's not included with the phone's basic package. Individual accessories, such as macro/fisheye lenses, cost €35 / £35 / ₹3,000, while for the universal cover you will deduct €25 / £25 / ₹2,000, the same goes for the lanyard. A set that includes a case, one lens and a wallet will cost you a reasonable €45 / £45 / ₹4,000But beware: first-generation accessories are not compatible with the new model, so prepare for a complete reset of your collection.
Programming environment: Elegant and unique
Nothing OS 3.2, built on Android 15, brings a minimalist aesthetic with monochromatic icons and a fresh approach to navigation. More practical innovations include Essential Space, a place where you can store notes, reminders, and images with a single click of a special button on the edge of your phone. Is it a revolution? Maybe not, but it's definitely one of the more sensible additions to artificial intelligence in the mobile world today.
More importantly: the CMF Phone 2 Pro promises three years of operating system updates and six years of security patches — which far exceeds the standard offering of competitors such as the Redmi Note 13 Pro or Motorola Edge 40 Neo.
Where does the Phone 2 Pro stand compared to the competition?
If you're looking for a powerful camera and display, the Redmi Note 13 Pro might offer some advantages, but it lacks modularity. If you're looking for software support and water resistance, the Samsung Galaxy A25 5G offers good protection but a lower screen brightness. The Motorola Edge 40 Neo offers a great display and IP68 protection, but lacks modularity.
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In this group, the CMF Phone 2 Pro stands out as the only one that truly combines the worlds of usability, modularity, and affordability.Conclusion: The modular future is not dead yet
Phone 2 Pro It's not perfect. But for a price starting at €249 / £219 / ₹19,000 (128GB) or €279 / £249 / ₹21,000 (256GB), offers something that few offer today: personality, flexibility and genuine joy of use.
If you're looking for a smartphone that won't just follow trends, but also create them, the CMF Phone 2 Pro is the right choice.
The phone is already available for pre-order on nothing.tech, and open sales begin on May 6, 2025.
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