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I tried the controversial Android phone that's got the internet buzzing - and left impressed

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Prakhar Khanna/ZDNET

Nothing's new flagship phone is its most expensive and risky product yet. At $799, the Nothing Phone 3 no longer undercuts its midrange competitors. Instead, the handset takes on the likes of the iPhone Pro, Pixel Pro, and Galaxy S phones of the world with a striking design, functional AI features, and fine software tuning.

Also: I tested Nothing's first over-ear headphones, and they made my AirPods Max look boring

And it does so while sacrificing its most iconic feature, the Glyph Lights, which have now been replaced by a more subtle and unique Glyph Matrix interface. More on that later.

I went hands-on with the Phone 3 at Nothing's launch event in London, and here's why it's poised to make a splash in an ever-competitive market.

Putting the 'fun' in functionality

Prakhar Khanna/ZDNET

As a tech enthusiast, I couldn't help but see the various Nothing Phone 3 renders that were leaked ahead of launch, and went into the hands-on session with lowered expectations. I wasn't expecting much from the asymmetric design, but the Phone 3 has surprised me for the better. Dare I say, I love its weirdness.

The new Glyph Matrix on the back cover adds a playful touch to what would otherwise be another slab phone, and I'd argue it's more functional than the Glyph Interface of past models.

Also: Why I recommend this $280 Android phone over cheap models from Samsung and Google

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