Nothing accepts its Phone 3a vs iPhone 16 Pro Max camera comparison video was botched up

Nothing has found itself in hot water this week after a camera test video meant to showcase its upcoming Phone 3a backfired. The video, which compared the Phone 3a’s video stabilization to Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro Max, initially seemed to show Nothing’s device outperforming Apple’s flagship. But eagle-eyed viewers quickly noticed a critical error — the iPhone footage wasn’t shot using its main camera lens.

The comparison, posted on YouTube, featured side-by-side clips of shaky bike rides through London. While the Nothing Phone 3a’s footage appeared smoother, commenters pointed out the iPhone 16 Pro Max was filmed using its ultrawide lens, which lacks the advanced stabilization of its primary camera. The mistake sparked criticism, with many accusing Nothing of misleading viewers to make its product look better.

Nothing later acknowledged the blunder in a pinned comment under the video. “We shot across all lenses throughout the day,” the company wrote, explaining that an editing error led to the wrong iPhone clip being used. “There was no intent to mislead,” it added, promising stricter checks for future comparisons.

The slip-up is awkward timing for Nothing, which has built a reputation for cheekily mocking rivals like Apple. Just days earlier, the company poked fun at the iPhone 16e’s dual-lens camera in promotional posts. Known for its bold claims about “making tech fun again,” Nothing often positions its budget-friendly phones as alternatives to pricier flagships.

That said, both phones were set to 4K resolution at 30 frames per second, with Nothing claiming its device offers “200% enhanced” stability. While the Phone 3a’s footage did look impressively smooth, the iPhone’s accidental ultrawide usage skewed the results. Fans argued the test wasn’t a fair fight, since Apple’s main lens typically delivers stronger stabilization.

While Nothing’s playful digs at competitors have earned it a loyal fanbase, this misstep shows how quickly hype can turn to scrutiny. For now, the company says it’s listening to feedback — and maybe double-checking its footage. The Phone 3a’s camera might still hold up against rivals, but this time, Nothing’s punchline landed on itself.