Nothing expanded its midrange lineup with two similar-looking smartphones-the Phone (4a) and Phone (4b)-each targeting a different priority. Launched in March 2026, the Phone (4a) aims for a more premium feel, while the Phone (4b) focuses on practicality and longer battery life. At first glance, they look almost identical, but a closer look reveals where the differences really lie.
Both phones carry Nothing’s signature design: a transparent back panel and the Glyph interface, which uses customizable light patterns for calls and notifications. They share similar dimensions and thickness, about 8.6 mm, and both have IP64-rated protection, which guards against splashes and dust but falls short of the IP67 rating seen on some competitors in this segment.
The most obvious difference is in materials. The Phone (4a) sports a glass back and Gorilla Glass 7i on the front, giving it a sturdier, more upscale vibe-bordering the higher end of the midrange category. The Phone (4b) opts for a polycarbonate body and a slightly modified Glyph Bar, making it lighter and less expensive. For users who prioritize comfort and daily usability over a glossy finish, the 4b makes practical sense.
Color options are consistent across both models: black, white, blue, plus special editions, so either phone keeps that unmistakable Nothing aesthetic. The transparent design and Glyph lighting remain the brand’s core identity hooks, adding a distinctive flair that stands out more than specs lists ever could.
Put simply, the Phone (4a) is for buyers who care about premium materials and a more refined feel. The Phone (4b) targets those watching their budget but wanting more functional perks-including a bigger battery, hinted at by the model’s positioning. This mirrors a familiar strategy favored by Samsung and Xiaomi: one model grabs attention with materials and finish, the other with practical extras for a competitive price.
The deciding factor will come down to pricing and battery life. If the Phone (4b) lands noticeably cheaper and the main trade-off is glass versus plastic, it could become the lineup’s best-seller. In midrange smartphones, buyers tend to forgive less-premium materials more easily than weaker batteries or higher price tags. Nothing’s upcoming sales split in this category will be worth watching closely.