Nothing Phone (2a) Plus: A Closer Look at Upgraded Hardware and Performance
The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus, released in August 2024, serves as a performance-oriented iteration of the earlier Phone (2a). According to official product specifications, the device introduces the MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro 5G chipset, an upgraded 50MP front-facing camera, and faster 50W charging capabilities. While maintaining the signature transparent design language of the London-based company, the Plus model targets users seeking enhanced processing power and improved imaging hardware in the mid-range smartphone segment.
Hardware Enhancements and Chipset Performance
The primary distinction between the Phone (2a) Plus and its predecessor is the integration of the MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro processor. As reported by Android Authority, this 4nm chipset was developed in collaboration between Nothing and MediaTek. The processor features an octa-core architecture with a clock speed reaching up to 3.0 GHz, offering an approximately 10% increase in CPU performance compared to the standard Phone (2a). This hardware shift is intended to improve multitasking efficiency and gaming responsiveness, addressing demand for higher performance within the mid-range market.
Camera System and Imaging Capabilities
Nothing has upgraded the front-facing camera hardware for the Plus model, moving from a 32MP sensor on the standard Phone (2a) to a 50MP sensor. According to The Verge, this sensor supports 4K video recording at 30 frames per second, a feature intended to appeal to content creators. The rear camera system retains the dual 50MP setup—comprising a primary wide lens and an ultra-wide sensor—consistent with the layout found on the original Phone (2a).
Battery and Charging Specifications
The device is powered by a 5,000mAh battery, matching the capacity of the standard Phone (2a). However, the Plus model introduces 50W wired charging, an improvement over the 45W charging speed of the base model. As noted by GSMArena, the device does not include a power adapter in the retail box, following the company’s established sustainability practices. The charging system is compatible with standard Power Delivery protocols, allowing for consistent power replenishment across supported devices.
Comparison of Key Specifications
| Feature | Nothing Phone (2a) | Nothing Phone (2a) Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro | MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro |
| Front Camera | 32MP | 50MP |
| Wired Charging | 45W | 50W |
| Battery | 5,000mAh | 5,000mAh |
Design and Software Features
The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus retains the company’s “Glyph Interface,” a series of LED strips on the rear of the device that provide visual notifications and timers. The phone operates on Nothing OS, which is built on Android 14. The software interface emphasizes a monochromatic aesthetic and widget-heavy customization options. The device is available in a “Grey” metallic finish, which differentiates it visually from the standard black and white colorways of the original Phone (2a).
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does the Phone (2a) Plus support wireless charging? No, the device does not support wireless charging, maintaining the feature set of the standard Phone (2a).
- Is the Phone (2a) Plus water-resistant? The device carries an IP54 rating, meaning it is protected against dust and splashes of water, but it is not fully waterproof.
- Does it include a charger in the box? No, consistent with previous models, the retail package includes the phone and a USB-C cable but excludes a wall adapter.