I find it odd that Nothing Phone (1) gets compared to the Pixel 6a. It's a good device, but has a completely different positioning and value proposition.
6a is Pixel's entry level smartphone. Phone (1) is our flagship smartphone. The BOM (bill of material) cost to build the Phone (1) is significantly higher than 6a.
But for the sake of argument, here are some advantages of the Phone (1):
- Symmetrical bezels around the screen vs. a large chin on the 6a. This is very satisfying for those who demand good design.
- Gorilla Glass 5 vs. plastic back side, again feels way more premium.
- Better processor for faster performance.
- Way better camera hardware, although we have some catching up to do with them on software.
- 120Hz vs. 60Hz display refresh rate for a noticeable difference in smoothness when scrolling.
- Noticeably bigger screen, 6.55" vs. 6.1", for better media consumption.
- I prefer Nothing OS to Pure Android from an aesthetics and optimization/polish/finesse perspective, although both are nice.
- Faster wired charging and support for wireless charging which doesn't exist on the 6a.
Keanu Reeves was on my flight from London to NYC today. A young boy asked for an autograph at baggage & then began to fire off a series of rapid-fire questions. Keanu happily responded to every single one…