This modification is reported to enhance the screen’s quality at low brightness levels.
Key points to consider:
– A spokesperson from Nothing verified to Android Central that the retail software version of the Phone 3 includes a modification to the PWM rate.
– The firm claims that the device’s PWM rate has been altered from 2,160Hz to 960Hz to enhance the screen’s image quality at lower brightness.
– The Nothing Phone 3 commenced “open sales” earlier this week, with prices starting at $799.
Nothing has outlined an adjustment to the PWM rate on its newest flagship that is purported to be advantageous for both the device and the user.
Earlier today (July 18), a spokesperson from Nothing confirmed to Android Central’s Nicholas Sutrich that the PWM rate for the Phone 3 has been reduced. In their statement, they mentioned that the PWM rate has been decreased from 2,160Hz to 960Hz; however, this only applies at low brightness settings. Nothing noted that while the display can still operate at the original rate (2,160Hz), this amendment should enhance the performance of the display at reduced brightness levels.
The spokesperson remarked, “…we discovered that display performance at low brightness yields the highest quality image with this revised rate, hence we have prioritized image quality in the final retail software.”
The technical justification for this was not provided by the Nothing spokesperson at this point. Sutrich mentioned he is investigating it, but there was no solid information available before publication. Interestingly, this is not the first instance of a firm opting to lower its PWM rate in a device for its final retail software. Google has previously taken similar actions with the Pixel 8 Pro.
Sutrich mentioned that during the lead-up to the launch, the review unit he received was utilizing a 480Hz PWM rate. Following the release of the final software, this was reduced to 240Hz.
For the benefit of your vision:
PWM, or “pulse width modulation,” is a technique employed by manufacturers to rapidly switch the display on and off, which creates an illusion of increased or decreased brightness to the eyes. This flickering can lead to significant issues for those sensitive to PWM. Some individuals may experience eye strain, headaches, dizziness, a sense of vertigo, nausea, and a range of other unpleasant sensations.
There are solutions available if you’ve encountered any of these issues after using your phone for an extended period. Sutrich recommends locking your phone’s display refresh rate, avoiding use in a completely dark environment, and (most importantly) scheduling a visit to the optometrist.
While the Phone 3’s 2,160Hz PWM rate is designed to be gentle on the eyes, the Phone 3a and 3a Pro have also undergone similar adjustments.
Nothing’s acknowledgment of its PWM rate modification comes shortly after the company initiated open sales for the Phone 3 in the U.S. The starting price is $799 for configurations of 12/256GB and 16/512GB RAM/storage. Nothing has emphasized the flagship characteristics of the phone while integrating the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chip, 50MP camera lenses, and a 5,150mAh battery.
During the launch period, Nothing confirmed its commitment to providing additional software updates for the Phone 3. The device is set to receive five major Android OS upgrades along with seven years of security updates.
The Phone 3 is positioned as Nothing’s “true flagship,” showcasing significant CPU and GPU advancements compared to the company’s previous generation model. It features three 50MP cameras and a range of AI functionalities.
