The Phone 2 Pro: A Fresh Take on Modular Tech

The Phone 2 Pro is here, and it's making waves with its unique modular design. This isn't just any phone; it's part of a colorful subbrand called CMF, known for its customizable features. The Phone 2 Pro lets users attach extra accessories with a simple screw, making it stand out in the crowded smartphone market. However, it's important to note that this phone won't be officially available in the US, which might disappoint some fans. The Phone 2 Pro offers a lot for its price. It comes with a triple rear camera system, a bright 120Hz OLED screen, and 128GB of storage. But the real fun starts with the modular add-ons. There's a screw-on case, a kickstand-card wallet combo, a bright orange lanyard, and even swappable camera lenses. These accessories add a personal touch to the phone, making it truly unique. The Phone 2 Pro has made some changes from its predecessor. Unlike the first CMF phone, the backplate isn't removable. Instead, users can screw on covers that attach to the phone's existing rear. This design choice might have helped improve the phone's IP54 water-resistance rating. The new accessories, like the lenses and kickstand, attach to these covers, using magnets and plastic rings for a secure fit. The lenses are a standout feature. They come in a pair: a fisheye and a macro lens. Both lenses simply click onto the main camera, making it easy to switch between different photography styles. The macro lens, in particular, offers better results than the usual ultrawide cameras found in budget phones. The Phone 2 Pro runs on Nothing OS, a custom version of Android. It's visually striking but can be a bit confusing to navigate due to its monochrome design. The phone also includes the AI-powered "Essential Space, " which allows users to take screenshots, camera captures, and save them with voice notes and reminders. It's a practical use of AI in a smartphone, even if the dedicated button seems unnecessary. The Phone 2 Pro is available for preorder, with an official release on May 6th. Pricing starts at £219 / €249 for the 128GB model and goes up to £249 / €279 for the 256GB version. In the US, the phone is only available through a "beta program, " which comes with some caveats. The modular accessories are also limited in quantity and availability. Alongside the Phone 2 Pro, Nothing has also launched a trio of budget earbuds: the Buds 2, 2 Plus, and 2A. These earbuds feature a rotating dial on the case for controlling volume and other features. They all include active noise cancellation and water-resistance, with spatial audio and Hi-Res LDAC support on the higher-end models.