Nothing CEO Carl Pei has announced that the Nothing Phone (3) release will not take place in 2024. This declaration was conveyed in a video shared on X (previously known as Twitter), where Pei underscored the importance of ensuring the product's perfection, hinting at a potential launch in 2025 instead.
In the video, Pei articulated his vision for integrating AI into Nothing's offerings, discussing the prevailing trend of AI-centric products and acknowledging the hurdles faced by devices like the Humane Ai Pin and the Rabbit R1.
Pei contended that compelling users to abandon conventional apps in favour of novel AI hardware isn't effective. He affirmed that Nothing will persist in prioritizing the smartphone format for the time being.
Focus on AI Integration -
Despite the increasing emphasis on AI, Pei reiterated Nothing's dedication to the smartphone format, suggesting that the Nothing Phone (3) would adhere to this pattern by incorporating AI functionalities within a familiar smartphone framework, rather than introducing an entirely new AI-centric device.
Building a Bridge to a Post-App World -
Pei articulated his ambition to "forge a path from the current app-centric user experience to a future post-app paradigm." The forthcoming Nothing Phone (3) is anticipated to embody this vision, featuring novel hardware and software elements aimed at enriching the user experience through AI.
Pei expressed his desire for Nothing to adopt a business strategy akin to Nintendo's "blue ocean" approach, focusing on crafting top-tier products for its user demographic, characterized by being enjoyable, captivating, and appealing to all age groups.
AI Innovations -
During the video presentation, Walid Behlock, a software engineer at Nothing, unveiled a prototype of an AI-driven home screen. This interface employs widgets to predict user requirements, such as presenting a QR code for flight check-ins at the appropriate juncture.
Behlock also showcased an onboarding process for an AI companion capable of adapting to user preferences, including modifying its voice to match the user's accent.
Existing AI Integrations -
Nothing has already commenced integrating AI into its offerings. Recent updates include the integration of ChatGPT into Nothing earbuds and the Nothing OS 2.5.5 update, which introduces ChatGPT widgets to the home screen and a new feature enabling users to directly paste content into ChatGPT from the screenshot and clipboard pop-up.
Future Outlook -
Pei highlighted Nothing's concentration over the past three years on developing its "end-to-end capabilities" and delivering a distinctive user experience. AI will constitute a significant component of its future strategy.
While specifics regarding the release date of the Nothing Phone (3) were not disclosed, it is speculated to debut in the summer of 2025, aligning with Nothing's customary timeline for flagship launches.
