New Delhi: Smartphone manufacturer Nothing has significantly enhanced its budget sub-brand CMF by establishing it as an independent subsidiary, with India designated as its global operations, research, and manufacturing hub, the company announced on Thursday. In conjunction with this initiative, Nothing has unveiled a $100 million joint venture with Indian electronics firm Optiemus Infracom Limited. This collaboration is projected to generate over 1,800 jobs in India within the next three years, according to the official statement. With this partnership, India will not only be the manufacturing headquarters for CMF but also play a crucial role in positioning the country as a global center for smartphone production and exports.
Nothing has previously invested more than $200 million in India, underscoring the country’s significance in its growth strategy. Launched in 2023, CMF has rapidly gained recognition in the budget smartphone and wearables market. The devices are priced under $200, targeting a segment in India where over 42 percent of all phones sold in the second quarter of 2025 fall within the $100–$200 price range, as reported by IDC data.