Nothing has started rolling out the stable Nothing OS 4.0 update based on Android 16 for the Nothing Phone 3a and Phone 3a Pro. The company shared the update details on its community page. Both phones are receiving the build with version number Nothing OS B4.0-251118-1551. The rollout is happening in phases and should reach all users within the next one to two weeks.

The Phone 3a Lite is not included in this release. Nothing had already announced during the original Nothing OS 4.0 reveal that Phone 3a Lite users will get the stable update early next year.

Everything new in Nothing OS 4.0

Nothing advises users to back up their data before downloading the update.

The update adds an AI usage dashboard inside Essential Space. It keeps track of AI large model activity to give clearer privacy information. You can find it under Settings > Intelligence toolkit > AI usage.

You can now hide apps directly from the home screen and the app drawer. Hidden apps can be viewed under Home screen > App drawer > Hidden icons. The app drawer also gets a new option that lets you control the search scope.

Weather, Pedometer and Screen Time widgets now have more size choices. Most Quick Settings tiles now support a 2 x 2 size. Pop up view now works with two floating icons, allowing quicker switching between windows. System upgrade tools also add app optimisation to improve startup speeds. This is available under Settings > Apps > App optimisation.

Essential features and community tools

Flip to Record now allows you to take photos and add notes while recording. All files are saved together in Essential Space. Playground (Alpha) is also live. It gives users access to community made Essential Apps, camera presets and EQ profiles. Essential Apps (Alpha) are also open for download and include AI powered tools created by the community.

Visual updates

Nothing has refreshed all Nothing app icons and updated status bar icons. There are two new lock screen clock faces. Extra dark mode is now available under Settings > Display > Dark theme > Extra dark mode. The update also improves transition animations across the system.

Glyph and camera changes

Flip to Glyph now lets you select whether the phone switches to Silent or Vibrate mode. Glyph Progress now uses Android 16 Live Update notifications for better support with third party apps.

The camera gets updated presets, new Stretch filter styles with intensity control, longer Motion Photos with audio recording, new Nothing watermarks, new artistic frames and a cleaner camera interface.

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(Source)

The post Nothing OS 4.0 Update Now Live for Phone 3a and Phone 3a Pro appeared first on Gizmochina.

Nothing recently started rolling out its Android 16–based Nothing OS 4 update to the Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro. The release brings a handful of new features, including an AI-powered dashboard, a refreshed Nothing icon pack, and a new “Stretch” camera preset.

But the update also introduces something we haven’t seen on a Nothing device before: Lock Glimpse. It’s a customizable lock-screen feed that rotates through curated wallpapers and quick-view widgets for things like weather, reminders, and more.

However, the decision to include Lock Glimpse isn’t being well-received by users and community members, as many are criticizing it as bloatware. 

The feature is quite similar to the Glance lock-screen feed on budget and mid-range phones from Realme, Oppo, and Redmi. And as someone who uses a Realme phone with Glance enabled by default, I can relate. I don’t enjoy having my lock-screen wallpaper constantly swapped out or cluttered with bite-sized content I didn’t ask for. 

Here’s what Nothing has to say

Responding to this, Nothing’s co-founder Akis Evangelidis revealed that it’s actually a part of a broader strategy to include third-party apps on Nothing phones. 

The official says that the company will begin pre-installing a “carefully considered selection” of third-party partner apps and services on select non-flagship devices.

He cited Instagram as the type of app that will come out of the box. The irony, though, CEO Carl Pei publicly called out Instagram as bloatware in replies to his own X post back in 2022.

As for why Nothing is doing this, Akis says it’s partly to manage the BOM (Bill of Materials) cost, which is higher for Nothing compared to more established smartphone players. Other brands also benefit from software-based revenue streams, while Nothing is dealing with “razor-thin margins.”

So to stay sustainable, the company is exploring new revenue models, which include third-party partnerships. Still, Akis assures that Nothing will keep such apps “minimal and easy to remove,” and will be transparent about what’s being installed and why.

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(Source)

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After weeks of anticipation, Nothing has finally rolled out the Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta for its Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro, bringing Android 16 features and a handful of design refinements to the brand’s mid-range lineup.

The update arrives as build Asteroids-V3.2-251013-1406, and follows earlier betas released for the Phone (3), Phone (2), and Phone (2a) models. The delay for the 3a series appears to have been deliberate, giving Nothing time to tune performance for the phones’ Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chip and 6.77-inch display.

Like other Open Betas, this one comes with a few cautions. Nothing advises users to back up data before installing, since early builds can bring the usual mix of bugs, app crashes, and the occasional “glyph glitch.” Enrollment closes on November 7, and sign-ups can be done through Settings → System → Nothing Beta Hub → Join Beta.

What’s New in Nothing OS 4.0

While much of Nothing OS 4.0 builds on the features already seen in earlier betas—like AI-powered dashboards, faster multitasking, and overall performance tweaks—the 3a update also introduces some notable additions.

A refreshed Nothing icon pack gives the interface a lighter, more refined look, still rooted in the brand’s dot-matrix aesthetic. The Camera app gets a creative upgrade too, thanks to a new “Stretch” preset developed in collaboration with filmmaker Jordan Hemingway. The feature enhances contrast and tone for a cinematic, moody look straight out of the sensor—ideal for the 3a’s dual-lens setup.

Another highlight is Lock Glimpse, a customizable lock-screen feed that rotates through curated wallpapers and quick-view widgets like weather or reminders. Nothing says future updates will allow personal photo integration while keeping data encrypted locally—no cloud snooping here.

Beta users should expect some rough edges, but for those willing to trade a bit of stability for early access, the 4.0 beta offers a lively glimpse of Nothing’s next big step in software design.

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(Source: Nothing)

The post Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta lands on Phone (3a) series: Here’s what’s new appeared first on Gizmochina.

The Vivo V50 is an excellent camera phone and an impressive all-around package, featuring a fast Snapdragon processor, a high-quality AMOLED screen, and a large battery that easily lasts a full day — all for around INR 35,000.  However, it’s far from being the only showstopper in this price range, as we’ve found six great alternatives that outshine the Vivo V50 in various ways.

1. Realme GT 7

This Realme smartphone is powered by a significantly faster MediaTek Dimensity 9400e chipset, delivering a noticeable performance boost in gaming and demanding apps. It also promises an additional Android upgrade, bringing the total to four.

The GT 7 also brings LTPO support for improved battery efficiency and much higher peak brightness for superior visibility outdoors. It features Gorilla Glass 7i for better protection. The device offers a telephoto lens, in addition to primary and ultrawide shooters, for enhanced camera capabilities. It also excels in battery capacity and charging speed compared to Vivo V50.

Realme GT 7 specs:

• Display: 6.78” LTPO AMOLED, 1264 x 2780 pixels resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, 6000nits brightness (peak)
• Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 9400e (4nm)
• Software: Android 15, four major Android updates
• Rear camera: 50MP (primary), 50MP (telephoto), 8MP (ultrawide); up to 8K recording
• Selfie camera: 32MP; up to 4K recording
• Battery & charging: 7,000mAh; 100W (wired), 7.5W (reverse wired)
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth v5.4, NFC

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	realme GT 7 (IceSense Blue,8GB+256GB) | India’s 1st MediaTek Dimensity 9400e Chipset | Strongest…	Check Price on Amazon

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2. OnePlus 13R

The OnePlus 13R is a premium option featuring an aluminum frame and the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which is much faster than the Vivo V50’s 7 Gen 3 processor. It offers an LTPO 4.1 screen, Gorilla Glass 7i protection, and Ultra HDR image support.

It features an additional telephoto shooter that enables high-quality zoom shots, in addition to a primary camera and an ultrawide camera. The ultrawide camera has a lower resolution, though. Furthermore, the OnePlus 13R supports the latest Wi-Fi 7 technology for reliable connection even in crowded places.

OnePlus 13R specs:

• Display: 6.78” LTPO 4.1 AMOLED, 1264 x 2780 pixels resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, 4500nits brightness (peak), Ultra HDR image support
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4nm)
• Software: Android 15, four major Android updates
• Rear camera: 50MP (primary), 50MP (telephoto), 8MP (ultrawide); up to 4K recording
• Selfie camera: 16MP; up to 1080p recording
• Battery & charging: 6,000mAh; 80W (wired)
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth v5.4, NFC

Preview	Product
	OnePlus 13R | Smarter with OnePlus AI (12GB RAM, 256GB Storage Astral Trail)	Check Price on Amazon

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3. Oppo Reno 14

This is another excellent premium mid-range phone featuring an aluminum alloy frame, Gorilla Glass 7i protection, and an IP68 rating that ensures protection against dust and water. It has a slightly smaller screen size with a higher pixel density, resulting in sharper and crisper images. The device is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 chip, faster than Vivo V50’s Snapdragon 7 Gen 3.

The Reno 14 promises two additional Android upgrades than the Vivo V50. It also featured an additional camera unit (telephoto lens) on the rear side, enabling a range of shots. The battery capacities remain the same, but the charging speed is a little lower on the Oppo phone. The connectivity features are nearly identical, except for the NFC support on the Reno 14.

Oppo Reno 14 specs:

• Display: 6.59” AMOLED, 1256 x 2760 pixels resolutions, 120Hz refresh rate, Gorilla Glass 7i protection
• Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 8350 (4nm)
• Software: Android 15, five major Android updates
• Rear camera: 50MP (primary), 50MP (telephoto), 8MP (ultrawide); up to 4K recording
• Selfie camera: 50MP; up to 4K recording
• Battery & charging: 6,000mAh; 80W (wired)
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6e, Bluetooth v5.4, NFC

Preview	Product
	OPPO Reno14 5G (Pearl White, 8GB RAM, 256GB Storage)	Check Price on Amazon

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4. Samsung Galaxy S24 FE

It’s another solid package on the list, featuring an aluminum frame, IP68 rating, and Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection on both sides. The Exynos 2400e chipset powers the handset, which is nearly twice as fast as the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 on the Vivo V50.

The Galaxy S24 FE features a marginally smaller screen size with nearly the same pixel density but a significantly lower peak brightness. However, it leaves the Vivo V50 in the dust by offering seven years of Android upgrades. The device allows up to 8K video recording via its triple rear cameras, which also includes a telephoto unit. The battery capacity, however, is a bit disappointing, as is the charging speed (4700mAh, 25W). However, it supports wireless charging.

Galaxy S24 FE specs:

• Display: 6.7” Dynamic AMOLED, 1080 x 2340 pixels resolution, 1900nits brightness (peak), Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection
• Processor: Samsung Exynos 2400e (4nm)
• Software: Android 14, seven major Android updates
• Rear camera: 50MP (primary), 8MP (telephoto), 12MP (ultrawide); up to 8K recording
• Selfie camera: 10MP; up to 4K recording
• Battery & charging: 4,700mAh; 25W (wired), 15W (wireless)
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6e, Bluetooth v5.3, NFC

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	Samsung Galaxy S24 FE 5G AI Smartphone (Graphite, 8GB RAM, 128GB Storage)	Check Price on Amazon

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5. Vivo T4 Ultra

The Vivo T4 Ultra puts a tough show against the Vivo V50 while being similarly priced. It comes with the Dimensity 9300+ chipset, which is significantly faster than the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 in the V50.

The T4 Ultra also features superior overall cameras, rocking a 50MP primary shooter, an 8MP ultrawide camera, and a 50MP periscope telephoto camera. The V50 lacks a telephoto camera. The T4 Ultra, however, features lower-resolution selfie and ultrawide cameras, but overall, it has a solid camera setup.

The battery is a bit smaller than the V50, but the charging speed remains fast.

Vivo T4 Ultra specs:

• Display: 6.67” AMOLED, 1260 x 2800 pixels resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, 5000nits brightness (peak)
• Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ (4nm)
• Software: Android 15, three Android updates
• Rear camera: 50MP (primary), 50MP (periscope telephoto), 8MP (ultrawide); up to 4K recording
• Selfie camera: 32MP
• Battery & charging: 5,500mAh; 90W (wired)
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth v5.4, NFC

Preview	Product
	VIVO T4 Ultra 5G (Meteor Grey, 256 GB) (12 GB RAM)	Check Price on Amazon

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6. Nothing Phone (3a) Pro

Nothing Phone (3a) Pro another excellent mid-range phone with a non-traditional rear design and a clean software experience. The device features a slightly better Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset, the same-sized AMOLED panel, and Android 15 OS with three years of Android updates.

The rear setup includes a telephoto lens, making it more versatile than the V50. The battery capacity and charging speed are not the best but fairly good at 5,000mAh and 50W.

Nothing Phone (3a) Pro specs:

• Display: 6.77” AMOLED, 1080 x 2392 pixels resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, 133nits brightness (peak), Panda Glass protection
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 (4nm)
• Software: Android 15, three major Android updates
• Rear camera: 50MP (primary), 50MP (periscope telephoto), 8MP (ultrawide); up to 4K recording
• Selfie camera: 50MP; up to 4K recording
• Battery & charging: 5,000mAh; 50W
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth v5.4, NFC

Preview	Product
	Nothing Phone (3a) Pro 5G (Black, 8GB RAM + 256GB Storage)	Check Price on Amazon

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Would you still go for the Vivo V50 or pick any of the six alternatives? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

The post 6 phones you can buy instead of Vivo V50 appeared first on Gizmochina.

Finding a high-quality smartphone that doesn’t break the bank can be challenging. In today’s market, numerous options promise top-tier performance and features, but many come with a hefty price tag.

This guide focuses on identifying the best smartphones available in the US for under $500, ensuring you get the most value for your money. We’ve curated a list of devices that balance essential features, performance, and affordability.

The selection comprises models from brands that are officially present in the US, so you need not worry about after-sales support. Each of these smartphones has been chosen for its unique strengths, ensuring there’s an option for every user’s needs and preferences within the $500 budget.

Without further ado, let’s go through these phones.

Pixel 9a: Clean Android Experience

The Pixel 9a is Google’s latest budget offering. It costs the same $499 as its predecessor, the Pixel 8a.

For the same price, the newer model comes with a faster Tensor G4 chip and a slightly larger 6.3-inch display, which also happens to be brighter at 2700 nits (peak).

The device also gets a new 48MP primary camera paired with a wider f/1.7 lens. More importantly, the battery capacity gets a boost to 5,100mAh, and it also charges a bit faster at 23W.

Along with the upgraded hardware and a revamped design, the Pixel 9a also offers a clean Android experience, like any other Pixel. It supports almost all the AI features Google has to offer, along with 7 years of guaranteed major Android updates.

OnePlus 13R: Smooth Performance and Fast Charging

The OnePlus 13R is probably the smoothest $500 smartphone that’s officially available in the US. That’s because it is powered by a high-end Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, paired with OxygenOS 15 and a 120Hz display.

The phone also features a triple camera system comprising a 50MP primary sensor, a 50MP 2x telephoto shooter, and an 8MP ultrawide unit. It is backed by a large 6,000mAh battery, which supports 80W wired charging.

The OnePlus 13R is compatible with all three major carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon) in the US. The official price tag is $599; however, the product is regularly sold at a $100 discount.

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	OnePlus 13R | Smarter with OnePlus AI (12GB RAM, 256GB Storage Nebula Noir)	Check Price on Amazon

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Nothing Phone (3a) Pro: Unique Design and Features

The Nothing Phone (3a) Pro is one of the most unique-looking smartphones on the market. The handset’s design is a head-turner, thanks to its transparent rear panel and Glyph LED lights.

At $459, it also delivers a capable camera setup consisting of a 50MP primary sensor, a 50MP 3x periscope telephoto unit, and an 8MP ultrawide sensor. Further, the software resembles stock Android with Nothing’s dot matrix elements and some unique first-party apps.

It is not as powerful as the previous two devices. However, it is fast enough for day-to-day activities. A 5,000mAh battery powers the device, with support for 50W wired charging.

Preview	Product
	Nothing Phone (3a) Pro 5G (Black, 8GB RAM + 128GB Storage)	Check Price on Amazon

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Samsung Galaxy S24 FE: Samsung Ecosystem Experience on a Budget

The Galaxy S24 FE is the costliest product on the list. Though it carries an official price tag of $649, it can often be found for less than $500.

The handset delivers almost everything you can expect from the expensive mainline Galaxy S series phones from Samsung, but at a lower price. You get to experience the whole suite of Samsung ecosystem features.

The device comes with all the essential features, such as a 6.7-inch 120Hz display, a 4,700mAh battery, a 50MP (wide) + 8MP (3x telephoto) + 12MP (ultrawide) triple camera setup, IP68 dust and water resistance, and an Exynos 2400e chip. Samsung even promises 7 years of major Android updates.

Preview	Product
	Samsung Galaxy S24 FE 5G AI Smartphone (Blue, 8GB RAM, 128GB Storage)	Check Price on Amazon

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Nothing Phone 3a Pro is a smartphone designed to offer a premium experience at a mid-range price. With a sleek design and powerful hardware, it aims to provide users with smooth performance, high-quality cameras, and long battery life. Running on Android 15 with Nothing OS 3.1, this phone ensures a fluid user experience with full-screen gestures and improved customization options.

Exclusive Deal

Get an exclusive $20 discount on the Nothing Phone 3a Pro with the coupon code NT3A. Simply apply the code at checkout and save on your purchase. Hurry, this offer is valid only until April 30 on Giztop.

Stunning AMOLED Display

The Nothing Phone 3a Pro comes with a large 6.77-inch AMOLED display featuring a Full HD+ resolution of 1080 x 2392 pixels. The display supports a 120Hz high refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and better gaming performance. HDR10+ support enhances the visual quality, making colors appear more vibrant and details sharper. With a peak brightness of up to 3000 nits, the screen remains visible even in bright outdoor conditions, making it perfect for multimedia consumption.

Powerful Performance with Snapdragon 7s Gen 3

Under the hood, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro is powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset. This processor features an octa-core setup clocked at 3.0GHz, ensuring fast performance for everyday tasks, gaming, and multitasking. Paired with 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM, the phone runs smoothly even when multiple apps are open. The 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage provides ample space for storing apps, photos, videos, and other files without worrying about running out of space.

Impressive Camera Setup

For photography enthusiasts, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro comes with a triple rear camera setup. The primary sensor is a 50MP lens that captures detailed and vibrant images. A 50MP periscope telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom helps in capturing distant subjects without compromising quality, while an 8MP ultrawide camera ensures wider shots. On the front, a 50MP AI-enhanced camera is perfect for selfies and high-quality video calls. Whether you are taking photos in daylight or low-light conditions, the AI-powered camera system enhances image quality.

Long-lasting battery with Fast Charging

Equipped with a 5000mAh battery, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro offers excellent battery life. Whether you are streaming videos, playing games, or browsing the internet, the battery lasts all day on a single charge. The phone supports 50W fast wired charging, allowing users to quickly recharge their devices. Additionally, 7.5W reverse wired charging enables users to charge other devices using the Nothing Phone 3a Pro as a power source.

Advanced Security and Connectivity

Security is a top priority with the Nothing Phone 3a Pro, as it features an optical under-display fingerprint sensor for fast and secure unlocking. The phone also supports 5G connectivity, ensuring faster internet speeds for browsing and streaming. With Wi-Fi 6 support, users can enjoy a stable and faster wireless internet connection. The inclusion of multi-function NFC enables seamless contactless payments and other NFC-based features.

Additional Features

The Nothing Phone 3a Pro comes with dual Nano-SIM slots, allowing users to use two SIM cards simultaneously. The mobile hotspot feature lets users share their 4G or 5G data connection with other wireless devices. With GPS, dual-frequency support ensures accurate navigation, making it a great choice for travelers.

Key Specs:

• Display: 6.77-inch FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, 3000nits brightness
  
• Processor: Snapdragon 7s Gen 3, octa-core, 3.0GHz
  
• RAM & Storage: 12GB LPDDR5 RAM, 256GB UFS 3.1 storage
  
• Rear Cameras: 50MP main + 50MP periscope telephoto (2x zoom) + 8MP ultrawide
  
• Front Camera: 50MP AI selfie camera
  
• Battery: 5000mAh, 50W fast wired charging, 7.5W reverse wired charging
  
• Security: Optical under-display fingerprint sensor
  
• Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 6, NFC, dual Nano-SIM, mobile hotspot
  
• Operating System: Android 15 with Nothing OS 3.1

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Google’s Pixel 9a brings software longevity and AI-driven camera features at an accessible price, but it’s not without competition. If you’re looking for alternatives with better hardware, more versatile cameras, or faster charging, options like the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE and OnePlus 13R are worth considering. Here’s how they stack up.

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE

Samsung’s Galaxy S24 FE is one of the most compelling alternatives to the Pixel 9a. It boasts a larger 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate, making it a great option for media consumption and gaming. Unlike the Pixel 9a’s plastic back, the S24 FE has a more premium build with Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back.

Under the hood, the Galaxy S24 FE is powered by Samsung’s Exynos 2400e, a 10-core chipset that should deliver better performance than Google’s Tensor G4. The inclusion of a telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom makes it more versatile than the Pixel 9a’s dual-camera setup. 

Battery-wise, the S24 FE’s 4700mAh capacity is slightly smaller than the Pixel 9a’s 5100mAh, but it supports faster 25W wired and 15W wireless charging. If you’re looking for a phone with a larger screen, better build quality, and a more traditional smartphone experience, the Galaxy S24 FE is worth considering.

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	Samsung Galaxy S24 FE 5G AI Smartphone (Mint, 8GB RAM, 128GB Storage)	Check Price on Amazon

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OnePlus 13R

If raw performance is your top priority, the OnePlus 13R is an excellent alternative. It features the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which outperforms Google’s Tensor G4 in both CPU and GPU performance. This makes the 13R a better choice for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications.

The display is a 6.78-inch LTPO 4.1 AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 4500 nits, meaning it’s brighter and more responsive than the Pixel 9a’s screen. OnePlus also includes a larger 6000mAh battery with ultra-fast 80W wired charging, allowing you to get a 50% charge in just 20 minutes.

Camera-wise, the OnePlus 13R has a triple-lens system, including a 50MP main sensor, a 50MP telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom, and an 8MP ultrawide camera. 

Preview	Product
	OnePlus 13R | Smarter with OnePlus AI (12GB RAM, 256GB Storage Nebula Noir)	Check Price on Amazon

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Nothing Phone 3a Pro

The Nothing Phone 3a Pro is a more budget-friendly alternative to the Pixel 9a that still brings solid specs to the table. It features a 6.77-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ support. While the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 isn’t as powerful as the Tensor G4, it’s still a capable mid-range chipset that handles daily tasks well.

One of the Nothing Phone 3a Pro’s standout features is its design. It has three LED light strips on the back that serve as notification indicators and a camera-fill light. This unique design choice sets it apart from other smartphones in this price range.

Camera-wise, it has a triple-lens setup with a 50MP main sensor, a 50MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and an 8MP ultrawide camera. The selfie camera is also a high-res 50MP sensor. The 5000mAh battery supports 50W wired charging, meaning you can get a full charge in under an hour. 

If you want something different from the usual mid-range phones and don’t need flagship-level performance, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro is a fun and affordable choice.

iPhone 16e

For those who want an iPhone instead of an Android, the iPhone 16e is a viable alternative to the Pixel 9a. While it doesn’t have the highest-end specs, it still offers Apple’s signature build quality, software longevity, and ecosystem integration.

The iPhone 16e has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with HDR10 support. Its A18 chipset is more powerful than the Tensor G4, ensuring smooth performance for years to come. It has a single 48MP main camera, which may not be as versatile as the Pixel 9a’s dual-camera setup, but Apple’s image processing ensures great results.

Battery life is a bit of a mixed bag, with a 4005mAh capacity and slower charging compared to Android competitors. However, if you’re already invested in the Apple ecosystem and prefer iOS, the iPhone 16e is a good alternative to Google’s mid-range option.

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	iPhone 16e 128 GB: Built for Apple Intelligence, A18 Chip, Supersized Battery Life, 48MP Fusion….	Check Price on Amazon

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Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re looking for the best overall alternative to the Pixel 9a, the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is a great pick, offering a larger display, premium design, and better camera versatility. If you prioritize performance and battery life, the OnePlus 13R is hard to beat. For those on a tighter budget who still want a unique design, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro is a fun choice. And if you’re an Apple fan, the iPhone 16e is the closest equivalent to the Pixel 9a in the iOS world.

Ultimately, the best alternative depends on your priorities. Whether you value performance, camera quality, software, or battery life, there’s a phone out there that can meet your needs. The Pixel 9a is a solid mid-range phone, but as you can see, it’s far from the only option.

The post Pixel 9a Alternatives: Best Options to Consider appeared first on Gizmochina.

Nothing has addressed criticism surrounding its decision to equip the Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro with UFS 2.2 storage instead of the faster UFS 3.0 or UFS 3.1 standards. In a detailed post on its official community page, the company explained that the choice was not about cutting costs but about prioritizing resources where they matter most for the overall user experience.

Real-world performance depends on a combination of factors rather than storage speed alone

The Phone (3a) series, which has been available for over a week, has attracted praise for many aspects including its design. Unfortunately, the storage choice isn’t one of them.

Many expected the devices to feature at least UFS 3.0, given its faster read and write speeds. However, Nothing argued that real-world performance depends on a combination of factors, including software optimization, RAM, CPU performance, and battery life, rather than storage speed alone.

Nothing emphasized that while UFS 3.1 may sound impressive on paper, its benefits in daily use are minimal compared to a well-optimized device. The company also highlighted that the Phone (3a) Pro demonstrates 50% faster random read and write speeds than the standard model, despite both using UFS 2.2, thanks to better software optimization.

To further support its case, Nothing shared benchmark results showing the Phone (3a) performing competitively against the Realme 11 Pro Plus, which uses UFS 3.1 storage. The post concluded by assuring users that the Phone (3a) series will remain reliable over time, thanks to ongoing Nothing OS updates that will continue to bring performance optimizations.

While the decision to use UFS 2.2 may disappoint some, Nothing’s focus on software optimization aims to deliver a smooth and consistent user experience. As we move forward, the Phone (3a) series’ long-term performance will ultimately determine whether Nothing’s storage choice was justified.

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(Source: Nothing Community)

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The mid-range smartphone market has never been more competitive, and two of the latest entrants, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro and Realme 14 Pro+, bring compelling features to the table.

While both phones aim to deliver premium experiences at accessible prices, they take distinctly different approaches. Let’s dive into the specs, design, cameras, and overall user experience to see which one stands out.

Design & Display

Nothing has built its reputation on unique design, and the Nothing Phone 3a Pro continues that trend. It sports the brand’s signature semi-transparent rear panel with Glyph LEDs, offering a futuristic look that sets it apart from conventional slabs. The camera placement on the 3a Pro is also radical, featuring a semi-circular array, adding to its visual identity.

The Realme 14 Pro+, on the other hand, leans into a more elegant, premium aesthetic with a curved AMOLED display and color-changing back (in certain variants). While Nothing wins on the “standing out in a crowd” factor, Realme delivers a more polished and traditional premium feel.

On the display front, Realme takes the lead. The 14 Pro+ boasts a 6.83-inch 1.5K AMOLED curved display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 3840Hz PWM dimming, ensuring an ultra-smooth and flicker-free experience. The Nothing Phone 3a Pro, while still featuring a 6.77-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, falls behind in terms of resolution and overall brightness calibration.

Performance & Software

Both devices are powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 7s Gen 3, making them evenly matched in raw performance. The Realme 14 Pro+, however, offers up to 12GB RAM with 512GB storage in its highest variant, whereas the Nothing Phone 3a Pro maxes out at 256GB storage. If you need more space, Realme is the better pick.

In terms of software, Nothing OS 3.1 on top of Android 15 provides a cleaner and more distinct experience, optimized for minimal bloat and smooth animations. Realme’s Realme UI 6.0, while feature-rich, includes additional AI features like AI Ultra Clarity 2.0, AI Snap mode, and AI Eraser 2.0, but can feel cluttered at times. If you prefer stock-like Android, Nothing OS is the better choice, whereas Realme UI offers more AI-driven features for users who want extra functionality.

Cameras

Camera setups differ significantly between these two phones. The Nothing Phone 3a Pro features a 50MP main sensor (Sony LYT-600) with OIS, a 50MP periscope telephoto camera offering 3x optical zoom (with up to 60x ultra-zoom), and an 8MP ultra-wide lens. On the front, it has a 50MP selfie camera, making it a strong choice for content creators.

Realme takes a different approach, with a 50MP Sony IMX896 main sensor, a 50MP periscope telephoto with OIS and up to 120x digital zoom, and an 8MP ultra-wide sensor. Its 32MP front camera is slightly weaker than Nothing’s, but still more than capable for selfies and video calls.

While Nothing’s periscope telephoto maxes out at 60x zoom, Realme takes it a step further with 120x zoom, though digital zoom at such high levels isn’t practical in most scenarios. If you need a better front camera, Nothing wins, but for extreme zoom capabilities, Realme has the edge.

Battery & Charging

Battery performance is a key factor in daily use, and both phones bring long-lasting power. The Nothing Phone 3a Pro packs a 5000mAh battery with 50W wired charging, reaching 50% in just 19 minutes and 100% in 56 minutes. Realme goes further, featuring a 6000mAh battery, one of the highest capacities in this segment, paired with 80W SuperVOOC charging, which delivers 50% charge in just 24 minutes. However, neither phone supports wireless charging.

If you want a phone that lasts longer on a single charge, Realme wins with its larger battery and faster charging. But Nothing still offers solid endurance with fast charging speeds.

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Pricing & Availability

In India, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro starts at ₹29,999 for the 8GB + 128GB variant, going up to ₹33,999 for the 12GB + 256GB variant. The Realme 14 Pro+, meanwhile, starts at ₹29,999 for the 8GB + 128GB model, reaching ₹37,999 for the new 12GB + 512GB model.

Which One Should You Buy?

If you value unique design, a stock-like software experience, and a better front camera, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro is a great choice.

If you prefer a higher-resolution curved display, bigger battery, faster charging, and extreme zoom capabilities, the Realme 14 Pro+ is the better pick.

Ultimately, both phones offer great value for their price, and your choice depends on whether you prioritize aesthetics and simplicity (Nothing) or power and features (Realme).

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Nothing Phone (3a) series is set to launch globally on March 4. While Nothing has been teasing the arrival of the Phone (3a) series for nearly a month, it hasn’t revealed the complete design of the Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro. However, AndroidHeadlines has ended the mystery by sharing multiple leaked renders of both smartphones, revealing their design for the first time.

Nothing Phone (3a), Phone (3a) Pro leaked renders

The images show that the Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro have identical designs. However, the main difference is in the camera department. The Phone (3a) features a triple-camera setup in a horizontal manner with the LED flash placed above the horizontal bar. On the other hand, the Pro version has an LED flash and three rear-facing cameras, including a periscope camera, placed almost randomly inside the circular module.

On the front, the Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro have a flat display with a centrally positioned punch-hole. On the left, both phones have volume rockers, while the right edge seemingly features a new camera button apart from the power button. The Phone (3a) will be available in black and white shades, whereas the Pro edition will be sold in black and silver.

Nothing Phone (3a), Phone (3a) Pro specifications (rumored)

Speculations are rife that the Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro will be powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset. The standard version is expected to come in 8 GB / 12 GB RAM variants and 128 GB / 256 GB storage options. On the other hand, the Phone (3a) Pro may come in a single 12GB+256GB configuration.

Both phones are said to have a triple camera setup on the back, consisting of a 50-megapixel (main) + 8-megapixel (ultra-wide) + 50-megapixel (telephoto) sensor. While the Phone (3a) has a 2x telephoto camera with 30x digital zoom, the Phone (3a) Pro features a periscope telephoto camera, which delivers 3x optical zoom and 6x digital zoom.

Another difference is in the selfie camera department, where the Phone (3a) offers a 32-megapixel front camera, while the Pro version flaunts a 50-megapixel sensor instead.

The rest of the specifications are likely to be the same on both models. Both devices are expected to feature a 6.77-inch AMOLED FHD+ 120Hz screen and a 5,000mAh battery.

This post only showcases a few images shared by the publication. Readers can visit the source link to checkout more images.

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The post Leaked renders finally reveal Nothing Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro design appeared first on Gizmochina.