Nothing has launched the Phone (4b), a mid-range smartphone arriving July 7, 2026, priced at 1,799 lei for the 8GB RAM/128GB storage configuration.
Why the UFS 2.2 Storage is a Massive Bottleneck
The most glaring technical regression here is the choice of UFS 2.2 storage.
The SoC is built on a 4nm process, which is efficient, but the 2.3 GHz peak clock on the Cortex-A720s isn't going to win any benchmarks against the 7s Gen 4 found in its more expensive sibling.
The “Essential” Button and the AI Pivot
Nothing is leaning heavily into the software-hardware synergy with the new "Essential" side key. This isn't just a programmable shortcut; it's a dedicated gateway to the Nothing OS 4.1 AI suite, specifically Essential Voice and Essential Search.
Comparing the (4b) and (4a): Where the Value Shifts
The gap between the Phone (4a) and the (4b) is wider than a simple price difference. Nothing has stripped away the luxury of high-peak brightness and telephoto optics to hit that 1,799 lei mark.
| Feature | Nothing Phone (4b) | Nothing Phone (4a) |
|---|---|---|
| Peak Brightness | 2,000 nits | 4,500 nits |
| Storage Standard | UFS 2.2 | UFS 3.1 |
| Processor | Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 | Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 |
| Telephoto Lens | None (Dual Setup) | 50MP Periscope (3.5x) |
| Battery (Intl.) | 5,200 mAh | 5,080 mAh |
Interestingly, the (4b) actually wins on battery capacity.
The Glyph Bar: Simplified or Gutted?
The signature Glyph interface has been scaled back. The (4b) features a simplified bar consisting of four white LEDs and one red LED.
The build quality remains a mix of plastic and glass, with an IP64 rating. Nothing claims the device can survive submersion up to 25 cm for 20 minutes.
The Market Reality: Price vs. Performance
At 1,799 lei, the value proposition is shaky. Given the mediocre Qualcomm silicon and the outdated UFS 2.2 storage, a more aggressive pricing strategy—closer to 1,200 lei—would have made this a disruptor.
With a promise of three future Android version updates, the software longevity is a strong selling point.
