CMF, a sub-brand of tech innovator Nothing, has recently launched the Phone 2 Pro, a budget-friendly smartphone designed to build on the success of its predecessor, the Phone 1. Launched nearly a year after the Phone 1, the new model introduces incremental improvements while maintaining some of the modular features that made the original stand out. Design and Modularity The CMF Phone 2 Pro retains the distinctive aesthetic of its predecessor, featuring a lightweight and thin body (185g and 7.8mm thick) with a unique, round screwable wheel on the back. This wheel allows for the installation of various accessories, such as a kickstand and neck lanyard, which were popular additions on the Phone 1. However, some Phone 1 accessories, including the card case wallet and back plates, are incompatible due to changes in the phone's design. The back of the Phone 2 Pro is now sealed, preventing the removal of modules that were a hallmark of the Phone 1. Despite this, CMF has kept the four easily removable screws, allowing users to 3D print their own custom accessories or purchase third-party options from platforms like Etsy. This move seems to cater to the growing DIY community, although it may frustrate existing Phone 1 owners seeking compatibility. Hardware Upgrades While the overall design remains appealing, the Phone 2 Pro boasts several hardware enhancements. The display has been upgraded to a 6.77-inch AMOLED screen, providing more vivid visuals compared to the 6.6-inch screen of the Phone 1. The processor, a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Pro 5G, is 10% more powerful, ensuring smoother performance. The battery, although maintaining the same 5,000mAh capacity, promises an additional hour of usage thanks to improved efficiency. One of the most significant upgrades is the camera system. The Phone 2 Pro features a triple-lens setup: a 50-megapixel f/1.88 main lens, a 50-megapixel f/1.85 telephoto lens, and an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens. This configuration offers better zoom capabilities and a wider field of view, addressing the shortcomings of the Phone 1's single-lens system. The photo and video quality will be assessed further in upcoming reviews, but initial impressions suggest a noticeable improvement. Software Features The Phone 2 Pro runs Nothing OS 3.2, a highly responsive interface powered by Android 15. The 120Hz refresh rate of the screen enhances the user experience, making interactions feel fluid and fast. Another standout feature is the inclusion of the Essential button, located below the power button on the right side. This button, originally introduced on the Nothing Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro, adds a unique functionality by allowing users to take screenshots and add notes or voice recordings. Holding the button opens the Essential Space, an AI-organized platform for managing screenshots, voice memos, and other digital clutter. While the concept is intriguing, the current implementation is limited; there's no search functionality yet, and the AI's usefulness is constrained to basic tasks like summarizing text and suggesting tasks. Market and Price Nothing is primarily targeting the Indian and European markets with the CMF Phone 2 Pro. Pricing varies by region: £219 (UK), €249 (Europe), and ₹18,999 (India) for the 8GB RAM + 128GB storage model. A 8GB RAM + 256GB storage version is priced at £249 (UK), €279 (Europe), and ₹20,999 (India). In the U.S., the only available model is the 8GB RAM + 256GB storage variant, offered through Nothing’s Beta program for $279. Pre-orders are open starting April 28, and official sales begin on May 6 from Nothing and select retailers. Accessories CMF is offering a range of official accessories, primarily in the UK and Europe. These include a universal cover (£25 / €25), interchangeable fisheye and macro lenses (£35 / €35 each), and a wallet/stand (£35 / €35). Two bundle options are also available: one with a cover and a choice of wallet/stand or lenses for £45 / €45, and another with a cover, wallet/stand, and lenses for £65 / €65. U.S. and Indian customers will need to source these accessories independently. Industry Insights and Company Profile Industry insiders recognize the CMF Phone 2 Pro's balanced approach between design, modularity, and affordability. The move to break compatibility with some previous accessories is seen as a double-edged sword, fostering innovation in the DIY community while potentially alienating loyal users. Nothing, founded by Carl Pei, is known for its bold designs and focus on unique user experiences, particularly in the budget segment. The inclusion of advanced AI features and modular elements in the Phone 2 Pro aligns with the company's ongoing efforts to differentiate its products in a crowded market. However, the effectiveness and practicality of these features will be crucial in determining their adoption and impact on the broader consumer base.