I know it’s not on the menu – in fact, the chef has specifically banned foldables on the menu (as we’ll discuss in a moment), but, hey, one can dream.
Dreaming about a Nothing foldable is even easier with designer Sarang Sheth‘s gorgeous concept renders for the popular Yanko Design magazine.
They call it the Nothing Fold (1), a concept foldable phone that could redefine the foldable market. Known for its disruptive, outstanding designs with the Phone (1) and Phone (2), London-based startup Nothing is making waves in the tech world, and a foldable device could be its next big move.
Image credit – Sarang Sheth, Yanko Design
The funky report states that the Fold (1) concept envisions a sleek device running Nothing OS 3, featuring a 6.5-inch outer screen and a large 8.37-inch inner display. A standout addition is the Glyph Interface on both the back and the spine, which not only spells “1” during boot-up but also functions as a dynamic notification display.
Image credit – Sarang Sheth, Yanko Design
The designer-magazine duo goes even further. They imagine what the specs on this thing could be. Packed with flagship specs, their Fold (1) boasts five cameras: three main shooters (standard, ultrawide, and telephoto/macro) and two for the displays. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9400 5G chip, it offers robust performance with an 8-core CPU, 12-core GPU, and AI features. A 5,500mAh battery ensures extended usage, while the minimalist OS 3 promises smooth and efficient functionality.
Image credit – Sarang Sheth, Yanko Design
Staying true to its design philosophy, this Fold (1) model incorporates a premium transparent back, wireless charging coil, and eco-friendly materials. Its thin profile – 6.3mm when open and 14mm when closed – enhances portability, while its durable metal-and-glass construction adds a premium feel.
With foldables currently facing challenges of high prices and lackluster innovation, the Fold (1) could offer a fresh take, delivering cutting-edge features at a more accessible price. If priced around £799 (~$1,000), it could become a game-changing flagship, combining performance, style, and affordability.
Image credit – Sarang Sheth, Yanko Design
Hyped much? Don’t get too high.
Almost a year and a half ago, Nothing CEO Carl Peidismissed rumors of the brand developing a foldable phone. He argued that foldables are niche products with limited consumer demand. The speculation began after Nothing shared fan-made concept images of a foldable device on Twitter, but Pei clarified that the company has no plans to enter the foldable market “anytime soon”.
While acknowledging the efforts of major brands like Samsung and Google in this space, Pei criticized foldables for their lack of differentiation and suggested that manufacturers are driving demand rather than consumers genuinely desiring foldable features.