Nothing stoked people’s nostalgia for a distinct aesthetic from the bygone days. The group may not be the first tech company to retail electronics with transparent cases but considers it a signature theme. Its latest release — the Community Edition variant of the Phone (2a) Plus — is remarkable for several reasons. Moreover, the device is a wonderful project that values user input.

As consumers, we generally have low expectations when it comes to how manufacturers perceive feedback. A common practice among the biggest names in the industry with legions of loyal fans is social media engagement. Negative comments are usually moderated to maintain a positive image, while replies are mostly generic and vague.

In short, these tech titans only want your money and render any criticism by its customers moot. Headed by Carl Pei — co-founder of OnePlus, many perceive the brand as a rebel in a saturated market of Android OEMs. In fact, its release of the Phone (2a) Plus Community Edition hints at a lucrative and game-changing approach for future products.

This handset is the result of a massive undertaking by Nothing to collate over a thousand suggestions from 47 countries. It took approximately six months to narrow down all submissions and come up with the final details. After four stages: Hardware Design, Wallpaper Design, Packaging Design, and Marketing Campaign, the Phone (2a) Plus Community Edition comes to life.

Specifications-wise, the smartphone matches that of the standard Phone (2a) Plus. In addition to the intuitive Glyph Interface, the see-through back panel also features a phosphorescent graphic element. The Community Edition ships with unique wallpapers and in exclusive packaging. Only 1,000 units are available for purchase with priority given to Nothing community members.

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Images courtesy of Nothing