London-based smartphone maker Nothing, along with its budget-friendly sub-brand CMF, is expanding its footprint in India. CMF will now operate as an independent Indian subsidiary, and India has been chosen as the global hub for manufacturing, operations, and research for both Nothing and CMF.

The expansion will be supported through a joint venture with Indian electronics firm Optiemus Infracom. Together, the two companies plan to invest $100 million (approximately Rs 887.77 crore) over the next three years. This initiative is expected to generate more than 1,800 new jobs, boosting employment opportunities in the country.

Nothing CEO Carl Pei recently met with Union Minister for Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, to discuss the company’s growth and plans in India. Pei emphasized India’s key role in shaping the future of the global smartphone industry.

Since its launch in 2023, CMF has captured a strong position in the budget smartphone and wearable segment, with devices priced under $200. Nothing has already invested over $200 million (₹1,775 crore) in India, highlighting the country’s strategic importance to its growth. According to IDC, over 42% of smartphones sold in India in Q2 2025 were priced between $100 and $200, making this joint venture a timely step in establishing CMF as India’s first global smartphone brand.