Is there nothing we need to do to make gadgets cool again?

Imagine taking apart a new gadget to discover its hidden potential. That sense of discovery and fun is what Nothing’s CMF Phone 1 promises its users. Priced at a whopping $199, this phone aims to make “budget” synonymous with “fun” again.

Unlike most smartphones in its price range, the CMF Phone 1 has a certain something. You can swap out its back panel effortlessly, revealing a modular approach to personalization that lets you customize the look of your phone to your liking. But why would you want to do that? Because it’s just plain fun.

The CMF Phone 1, which shares its name and operating system with the first proprietary Nothing phone, offers user-friendly customizations. Why settle for just a protective case when you can replace the entire back panel of your phone? Each replacement panel comes with the necessary tools, including a screwdriver, screws, and a colored SIM tray.

The back panel isn’t just aesthetic. There’s a circular accessory port cover that resembles the control knob on CMF’s neckband headphones, though it serves no functional purpose beyond protecting the port. CMF is offering three accessories at launch: a lanyard, a wallet, and a kickstand, each priced at $25 and available in a striking orange color.

The phone itself is commendable for its price. It features a 6.7-inch OLED display, a 50-megapixel rear camera, and a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset paired with a solid 5,000mAh battery. It has a black panel installed, but users can also choose from orange, light green, and blue color options.

Removing the back panel may take some effort and probably a broken fingernail or two, but the process itself highlights the ingenuity of the phone. It’s almost eerie that a modern phone is completely exposed. With the panel removed, users can take a closer look at the phone’s interior—something that seems almost nostalgic in today’s sleek, sealed smartphones.

After replacing the back panel, users can further customize their phones with accessories. For example, the wallet consists of a plastic panel with a magnetic ring that attaches to the back of the phone, offering a MagSafe-like experience without the wireless charging. This allows for the simultaneous use of other accessories.

The included lanyard and kickstand are the same vibrant orange and offer practicality. The lanyard, made of woven fabric, may appeal to younger, more fashionable people, and the kickstand provides solid support, although it doesn’t lie flat against the phone when not in use.

For all its appealing features, the CMF Phone 1 does have some limitations. It lacks NFC, is only splash-proof, and carrier support in the U.S. is somewhat limited. It works best on T-Mobile’s 4G and 5G networks, but only supports Verizon and AT&T’s 4G bands. Still, at $199, its appeal lies in its combination of modularity and affordability.

Few devices combine functionality and affordability as perfectly as the CMF Phone 1. The company’s foray into modular design offers users something truly unique—the ability to customize gadgets to suit individual needs while maintaining cost-effectiveness.

CMF also introduced the Watch Pro 2 and Buds Pro 2. Users can swap out the bezel of the new watch or choose from a variety of strap types, seamlessly transitioning between styles. The watch supports both iPhone and Android devices and promises impressive battery life.

The Buds Pro 2 are packed with features. They have a giant control dial on the case that makes it easy to adjust the volume, and you can control various controls via the Nothing X app. Active noise cancellation, transparency mode, and up to 25 hours of battery life with the charging case make these earbuds a real steal at $59.

WIRED’s Julian Chokkattu detailed his initial impressions of the devices, describing them as both intriguing in terms of design and functionality. He noted that the CMF Phone 1, in particular, had an almost prototype feel, which added to its charm. Chokkattu noted that while the removable panel system is a bit of a pain, it’s a fun feature that stands out in the budget phone market.

The modular design extends beyond the phone itself. An accessory point on the back panel allows users to attach various accessories, such as a lanyard, kickstand or wallet, combining practicality with personal style. For those interested in DIY repairs or custom modifications, this feature is a breath of fresh air in an era where most devices are sealed shut.

CMF’s approach raises questions about the future of adaptive technology. Could this be a trend that catches on with other budget phone makers? Or will it remain a niche for tech savvy and adventurous handsets? Only time will tell.

It’s clear that CMF is positioning itself as a brand to watch. Making affordable tech exciting again could just pave the way for the next evolution in affordable gadgets. It remains to be seen how other brands will respond, but for now, the CMF Phone 1 stands out as a bold leap into a realm where cheap doesn’t have to mean boring.