Is the Phone (3) Series Really Complete? The Phone (3a) Community Edition Is Coming

Nothing’s Phone (3) series is technically ‘complete’ according to Carl Pei, but is it really? While we now have the Phone (3), Phone (3a), and Phone (3a) Pro, there’s still a new model on the way – the Phone (3a) Community Edition.

And this isn’t just a rehash of an existing phone, it’s a fan-driven project that could turn out to be one of the most exciting devices in the lineup.

What is the Phone (3a) Community Edition, you ask? It’s a collaborative effort between Nothing and its community. Fans and creators had the chance to co-design hardware, software, accessories, and even the marketing. The project was launched in March 2025, with submissions closing by April 23. Winning submissions have already been selected, and the co-creation process is well underway. The finished product is expected to drop before the end of 2025, and it’s definitely going to be part of the Phone (3) series.

The hardware design, titled ‘Translucent Memories’ by Emre Kayganacı, gives off major ’90s vibes with see-through plastic and soft glowing accents. It’s a fresh, fun take on Nothing’s signature transparent aesthetic, and it stands out in a sea of ordinary smartphones. The accessory winner is ‘Dice,’ though details on what it actually does remain a mystery – we’ll learn more as the product nears release.

The software side of the Community Edition includes a unique new watch face, designed by Jad Zock. This watch face uses different font weights and sizes to help users intuitively grasp the time. It’s a simple but clever design. Meanwhile, the marketing campaign for this edition is called ‘Made Together,’ a fitting tribute to the community-driven nature of the project.

Now, Carl Pei may say the Phone (3) series is complete, but there’s still one more device in the pipeline. This Community Edition phone will be a fun addition to the series, and it’s certainly one of the more interesting options for mid-range buyers. It’s not just another bland phone – it’s a product born out of community involvement, making it unique and highly collectible. I can’t wait to see it in action.