Nothing Phone (2) Offers Improved Design and Performance

The new Nothing Phone (2) has recently hit the market, and while it is receiving positive reviews, some questions still linger regarding its features and compatibility. To address these inquiries, we’ve compiled some of the top questions from users and provided answers based on two weeks of usage.

One user inquired if the Phone (2) feels better in the hand compared to its predecessor. The answer is a resounding yes. The Phone (2) boasts a thinner frame and a slightly curved back glass, which significantly enhances the overall feel and comfort. Additionally, the new model addresses the previous version’s hollow feeling, making it feel more premium.

Another concern revolves around the phone’s compatibility with Verizon. While the Phone (2) isn’t officially certified for Verizon, it is compatible with AT&T and T-Mobile. Users have reported using it on T-Mobile without any issues. However, activating it on Verizon may require additional phone calls and comes with no guarantees. It is advised to avoid using the Phone (2) with Verizon, but if you choose to do so, be prepared for potential challenges.

The quality of the haptics and vibration motor is another topic of interest. Users have found the haptics on the Phone (2) to be comparable to its predecessor, neither being exceptional. Despite efforts made by OnePlus to improve the haptic experience, the Phone (2) falls short compared to other flagship devices. It is described as fully mediocre but not necessarily bad.

Some users were curious about whether the Phone (2) would be offered by US carriers. However, the Phone (2) will not be available through any US carrier or retailer officially. Nothing, the company behind the Phone (2), has not disclosed any plans for future carrier partnerships. For now, the phone can only be purchased through nothing.tech, their official website. It is recommended to steer clear of resellers, as they may sell modified versions with faulty software.

In terms of comparison, a user asked if transitioning from a Pixel 6 to the Phone (2) would be a good upgrade. While the Phone (2) offers superior hardware and a more premium feel, it falls short in terms of software features, camera quality, and software updates. The Pixel 6 still excels in these areas, making it a more well-rounded experience.

Considering audio quality, the speakers on the Phone (2) are deemed as average. They lack depth and richness, with minimal bass. The absence of Dolby Atmos support further limits the audio experience. Additionally, the microphone performance is reported to be underwhelming, which is a common issue among non-major manufacturers.

Some users were curious about the Phone (2)’s DRM and HDR compatibility. The Phone (2) has Widevine L1 certification, allowing for streaming full-resolution videos on compatible apps. However, it’s worth noting that Netflix does not support HDR content on the Phone (2), as the OEM and Netflix need to collaborate for such compatibility. While there is a possibility of future updates enabling HDR support, it is not currently available.

Lastly, addressing battery life, users have praised the Phone (2) for its excellent endurance. The device offers impressive battery performance, ensuring that users can rely on it throughout the day.

In conclusion, the Nothing Phone (2) provides a solid smartphone experience, showcasing improved design elements and performance. While it may not excel in certain areas like software updates and camera quality compared to other flagship devices, it offers good value for its $599 price tag. The Phone (2) is now available for purchase on nothing.tech and is set to start shipping on July 17th.