With just days remaining until the highly anticipated launch of the Nothing Phone 2 on July 11, tech enthusiasts can already get a comprehensive look at the phone’s design and its upgraded Glyph Interface. Popular YouTuber Marques Brownlee, known as MKBHD, had the opportunity to go hands-on with the Nothing Phone 2, providing an in-depth preview in a recent video.
As depicted in the video, the Nothing Phone 2 closely resembles its predecessor, the Nothing Phone 1, maintaining its distinctive and eye-catching design. While leaks and partial images of the Nothing Phone 2 were already circulating, the familiarity of the design comes as no surprise, considering the success of the original model.
Although the overall appearance remains similar, Brownlee highlights a few changes, such as the slightly more rounded glass on the rear and a slightly lighter shade of gray. Additionally, Nothing has introduced a white model, as showcased in a recent tweet by the company.
The most noticeable visual changes come in the form of upgraded LEDs on the back of the phone, which play a crucial role in the Glyph Interface. The pattern of LEDs now features more gaps, resulting in a greater number of distinct light strips compared to the Nothing Phone 1. The Nothing Phone 2 boasts 11 light strips in total, compared to the five on its predecessor. Furthermore, within these strips, the phone incorporates 33 individual LED lighting zones, a significant improvement from the 12 on the previous model.
The enhanced Glyph system offers increased functionality, allowing users to utilize the LEDs for various purposes. For example, one of the light strips can serve as a volume indicator, illuminating more or less depending on the volume level. Users can also set a light strip to display a countdown timer. Furthermore, third-party apps can interact with the LEDs, opening up possibilities for further utilization. Already, companies like Uber and Zomato have integrated this feature, and more are expected to follow suit.
Improvements have also been made to notifications. Previously, the back of the phone would flash to indicate a notification. Now, users can set important apps to keep the LEDs illuminated for an extended period, ensuring that pending notifications are not missed.
The Glyph Composer feature allows users to create custom ringtones that synchronize with the LED pattern of their choice. This feature was previously teased by Swedish House Mafia.
While the LEDs are still limited to white illumination in the Nothing Phone 2, it represents a substantial upgrade from the previous model. The enhanced Glyph system adds practicality and utility, transforming it from a mere gimmick to a more useful feature.
Considering leaked pricing information, the Nothing Phone 2 may fall into the higher price range, potentially competing with established flagship devices like the Pixel 7 and the Samsung Galaxy S23, among others. With its improved features and design, the Nothing Phone 2 aims to make a mark in the competitive smartphone market.
