Nothing’s $399 Phone 2a Plus is now available in the U.S. through a beta program. Announced on Wednesday, August 7, the budget-focused handset continues the London-based company’s trend of unique and affordable devices. However, purchasing the Phone 2a Plus in the U.S. involves navigating several hurdles.
The U.S., the world’s third-largest smartphone market, has long been challenging for new entrants due to carrier control. Despite a growing trend of users buying unlocked, off-contract phones, carriers still hold significant sway in the market.
Nothing founder Carl Pei, who previously saw success with OnePlus in the U.S., is employing a similar strategy for his new company. The beta program is a key part of this approach, allowing Nothing to release handsets gradually and build a dedicated fanbase, much like OnePlus did.
The Phone 2a Plus retains Nothing’s signature transparent design and Glyph lighting interface. Priced at $399, it offers a more affordable alternative to the $699 Phone 2. The Plus model, which followed the 2a launched in March, is $50 more expensive than its predecessor but remains under $400.
While many specifications remain consistent with the 2a, the $50 increase brings upgraded CPU and GPU, promising 10% and 30% speed improvements, respectively. Additionally, the device features enhanced wireless charging speeds and an improved selfie camera.
Simultaneously, the Phone 2a Plus launched in India, priced at approximately $335 (Rs 27,999).
