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CMF Phone 1 Teardown Reveals Repairability Issues Despite Promising Design

Highlights

Difficult back cover removal complicates repairs
Screws covered with tape and hidden screw add to disassembly challenges
Battery removal more difficult than expected
Received a repairability score of 6.5 out of 10 from PBK

Nothing’s budget-friendly CMF Phone 1 has found itself under scrutiny, thanks to a revealing teardown by repair experts PBK.

While the device boasts an attractive design and impressive features, its repairability claims have hit a snag.

Hurdles in the Repair Process

CMF Phone 1 Teardown Reveals Repairability Issues Despite Promising Design

Contrary to Nothing’s marketing, the CMF Phone 1 presents several challenges for DIY repairs:

Back cover removal is difficult
A plastic cover with warranty warnings lies beneath

CMF Phone 1 is held in place by four flathead screws and one larger knob which Nothing calls the Accessory Point.

Screws are covered with tape, complicating disassembly
A crucial screw is hidden under an accessory knob
Battery removal is trickier than expected

The top half of the back plastic cover houses the camera lens covers and antennas

These obstacles stand in stark contrast to user-repairable devices like HMD’s Nokia G22 and G42, setting a disappointing precedent for the CMF brand.

Silver Linings and Quality Concerns

CMF Phone 1 earns a 6.5/10 repairability score with the battery removal

Despite the repairability issues, the teardown revealed some positive aspects:

Impressive cooling features, including heat dissipation shields and thermal paste
Sturdy construction with an aluminum shell and numerous screws

However, a critical assembly error during the teardown resulted in a damaged connector, raising questions about quality control.

The plastic covers over the motherboard and speaker assembly are also harder to remove than on other phones.

These factors contributed to PBK awarding the CMF Phone 1 a modest repairability score of 6.5 out of 10.

The CMF Phone 1’s repairability shortcomings highlight a growing disconnect between marketing claims and real-world practicality.

Despite its “modular design” CMF Phone 1 earns a 6.5/10 repairability score

As consumers increasingly prioritize sustainable, repairable electronics, Nothing and other manufacturers must rise to the challenge.

The CMF Phone 1 is a reminder that real repairability necessitates careful design and a sincere dedication to user accessibility—not just marketing.

FAQs

What challenges were found during the teardown of the CMF Phone 1?

The teardown revealed several challenges, including difficult back cover removal, screws covered with tape, a hidden screw under an accessory knob, and tricky battery removal.

How does the CMF Phone 1 compare to other user-repairable devices?

Compared to devices like HMD’s Nokia G22 and G42, the CMF Phone 1 presents more obstacles for DIY repairs, highlighting a disconnect between marketing claims and real-world repairability.

Were there any positive aspects noted during the teardown?

Yes, the teardown revealed impressive cooling features such as heat dissipation shields and thermal paste, along with sturdy construction featuring an aluminum shell and numerous screws.

What quality control concerns were raised during the teardown?

A critical assembly error led to a damaged connector, raising questions about the quality control of the CMF Phone 1 and contributing to its modest repairability score.