Published on October 15, 2025 | By Aditya Kumar Singh | X | Linkedin
Last Updated | 3:13 PM (IST)
As of mid-October 2025, there’s no official confirmation from Nothing about the Nothing Phone (3a) Lite. However, multiple leaks and tipsters suggest that the device could launch globally before the end of the year as a more affordable variant of the Nothing Phone (3a).
Expected Features and Positioning
According to leaks, the Nothing Phone (3a) Lite will sit above the CMF lineup but below the standard Phone (3a) in terms of price and features. It’s expected to retain Nothing’s signature minimalist design and transparent aesthetics, appealing to users who want a balance of style and performance at a lower price.
Also Read- Vivo X300 & X300 Pro officially Launched
Nothing Phone (3a) Lite – Rumored Specifications
| Specification | Details (Rumored) |
|---|---|
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB (UFS, likely 2.2) |
| Processor | Expected to be different from Snapdragon 7s Gen 3; possibly a slightly less powerful chipset |
| Display | 6.77-inch AMOLED, 1080 × 2392 pixels, 120Hz |
| Rear Cameras | Simplified setup compared to Phone (3a)’s 50MP triple-camera system |
| Front Camera | Toned-down version of the 32MP selfie camera on the Phone (3a) |
| Battery | Around 5000mAh with fast charging support |
| Colors | Black and White |
| Operating System | Nothing OS (based on Android) |
| Special Feature | Simplified version of the Glyph Interface |
Expected Price and Availability
Industry analysts expect the Nothing Phone (3a) Lite to target the budget-friendly mid-range segment. It could launch below ₹20,000 in India, making it one of the most affordable Nothing phones to date.
For context, the standard Nothing Phone (3a) (8GB/128GB) is currently available for around ₹23,999 on Flipkart, JioMart Marketplace, and Amazon India.
Release Timeline
Reports from tech outlets like Hindustan Times (HT Tech) and Croma Unboxed hint that the Nothing Phone (3a) Litecould make its official debut before 2026, following Nothing’s usual mid-cycle refresh pattern. If true, we might see an announcement or teaser by late 2025.
Comparison – Nothing Phone (3a) vs Nothing Phone (3a) Lite
| Feature | Nothing Phone (3a) | Nothing Phone (3a) Lite (Rumored) |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 | Likely older or slightly less powerful chip |
| Display | 6.77-inch LTPO AMOLED, 120Hz | Similar AMOLED display |
| Rear Camera | 50MP (Wide) + 50MP (Telephoto) + 8MP (Ultra-wide) | Simplified dual-camera setup |
| Battery | 5000mAh, 50W fast charging | Similar or slightly smaller battery |
| Glyph Interface | Full version | Simplified version |
Nothing Phone (3a) Lite vs Rivals: Top Alternatives Under ₹20,000 in India
With the rumored Nothing Phone (3a) Lite (8GB/128GB) expected to debut in the sub-₹20,000 price range, it’s gearing up to compete in one of India’s most crowded smartphone segments. Positioned as a budget-friendly alternative to the standard Phone (3a), the “Lite” model is expected to retain Nothing’s signature minimalist design, clean bloat-free software, and a simplified version of the Glyph Interface.
However, the Nothing Phone (3a) Lite will face tough competition from brands like Motorola, iQOO, OnePlus, Samsung, Poco, and even Nothing’s own sub-brand CMF. Here’s a look at its key competitors and how it might stand out.
Also Read- iPhone 17 Air VS iPhone 17 Which is good for you ?
Key Competitors in Late 2025
1. CMF by Nothing Phone 2 Pro (8GB RAM) — ₹18,999
As Nothing’s own sub-brand offering, the CMF Phone 2 Pro delivers a Dimensity 7300 Pro 5G processor, AMOLED display, and 5,000mAh battery. It targets value-for-money buyers who want to stay within the Nothing ecosystem but at a lower price point.
2. Motorola Edge 50 Fusion — ₹20,999
Motorola’s Edge 50 Fusion stands out with its 144Hz pOLED display, Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chip, and 68W fast charging. It’s an all-round performer for users who prioritize premium display quality and fast charging over aesthetics.
3. OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G — ₹18,999
A consistent mid-range performer, the Nord CE4 Lite focuses on battery life, smooth OxygenOS experience, and fast charging. It offers a clean interface similar to Nothing OS, appealing to minimal-UI lovers.
4. iQOO Z9s 5G — ₹19,999
iQOO is known for gaming performance, and the Z9s 5G continues that legacy with a Dimensity 7300 chipset and a massive 5,500mAh battery. It’s ideal for gamers and multitaskers looking for raw performance under ₹20K.
5. Poco X7 5G — ₹18,999
The Poco X7 5G brings a Dimensity 7300 Ultra, vivid AMOLED display, and strong gaming-centric performance. It often delivers better specs for the price, making it a serious contender in this segment.
6. Samsung Galaxy A35 5G — Price varies (~₹20K–₹22K)
Samsung’s Galaxy A35 5G competes with its Super AMOLED screen, reliable cameras, and the trust of the Samsung brand. While it may not have the fastest charging or chipset, its long software support and polished One UI make it popular among casual users.
-
Will the Nothing Phone (3a) Lite support 5G ?
Users often ask whether this affordable model will retain modern connectivity standards like 5G.
-
Will it have NFC and Wireless Charging ?
Will these premium features be included or removed to cut costs?
-
How many software updates will it receive ?
People want to know how many Android version upgrades and security patches it will get.
-
Will it support micro-SD or expandable storage ?
Many ask if users can increase storage later via memory cards.
-
What kind of camera software features will it have ?
Will features like Night Mode, Pro mode, HDR, Portrait mode, etc. be present?
-
How durable will it be? (Glass type, frame, water resistance)
Will it use premium glass, metal frame, and have IP rating like its siblings?
-
What kind of display protection will it use ?
Is there Gorilla Glass, or an alternative, to prevent scratches and cracks?
-
Will it retain the iconic Glyph lighting interface ?
People want to know whether the Lite model’s Glyph will be full or basic.
-
What colors and design variants will it come in ?
Will there be only black/white, or more colors and special editions?
-
Will the Lite version compromise performance for efficiency ?
Is the chipset significantly weaker, or will it still handle gaming and multitasking smoothly?