Nothing’s latest smartphones, the Phone (3) and Phone (3)a, feature an AI-powered dashboard called Essential Space. This dedicated hub organizes screenshots, images, voice notes, and reminders, accessible via the Essential Key button. Currently free, future access to Essential Space may require a paid subscription.
Nothing envisions Essential Space as an AI-powered “second brain,” storing information users might otherwise forget. While in beta, the dedicated button suggests its importance in Nothing’s future phone strategy.
The Nothing Phone 3a ProEssential Space on the Nothing Phone (3)a. (Image: Andy Boxall / MaagX)
Currently, Essential Space services are free. However, code within the app, discovered by Android Authority, references a “free trial,” suggesting an eventual subscription model. The code mentions a “1 year free trial,” “AI credits,” and a “monthly processing limit,” further supporting this theory.
Another code section hints at potential pricing, mentioning “USD 120” during onboarding. This could be the annual subscription cost, equating to $10 monthly.
This is less than Google Gemini Advanced or ChatGPT Pro’s monthly $20 fee, but considering Essential Space’s limited functionality and exclusivity to Nothing phones, the price might seem high.
Further details on pricing are expected when Essential Space exits beta. A recent update added Camera Capture, similar to Google Lens, saving information gleaned from images and screenshots within Essential Space.
Nothing also promises future updates with Smart Collections, Focused Search, and Flip to Record, expanding the app’s capabilities. The precise utility of these features will be assessed upon release.
