CMF by Nothing Enters Portable Audio with Modular Speakers
CMF introduces milk-carton-styled Bluetooth speakers featuring open modular 3D-printing support.
1Dual-Tier Hardware Strategy
Nothing's budget subsidiary CMF has officially entered portable audio with two milk-carton-shaped models. The compact Speaker S retails for $59, while the larger Speaker M costs $109. This marks the brand's inaugural speaker lineup, expanding its footprint across affordable, design-focused personal audio hardware.
2Acoustic Architectures Compared
The smaller Speaker S features a 45mm full-range driver paired with two passive radiators for portability. In contrast, the home-focused Speaker M doubles the height, integrating a 10W tweeter and a 25W woofer alongside dual drivers for enhanced bass output and distinct audio separation.
3Open-Source Customization Layer
Both speakers feature interchangeable control knobs and swappable front cover plates across multiple vibrant colorways. CMF plans to release official CAD design files publicly, enabling enthusiasts to 3D print custom handles and accessories, echoing industrial design trends popularized by boutique hardware makers.
4Protocol and Broadcast Specs
The devices feature modern Bluetooth 6.0 wireless connectivity alongside integrated Auracast broadcast support. Users can establish stereo playback by pairing identical models, but cross-model linking between S and M units is unsupported. Cross-brand broadcast synchronizations remain enabled via standard Auracast party configurations.
5Ruggedization and Battery Life
Both portable units carry an IP68 rating for comprehensive dust and water ingress protection. CMF rates overall battery endurance at up to 18 continuous hours per charge. Audio customization and sound profile adjustments are managed directly through Nothing's dedicated companion application.
6Input and Fast Pairing
The hardware integrates USB-C ports that handle dual roles for charging and wired digital audio transmission. Fast device connectivity is facilitated via onboard NFC, Google Fast Pair, and Microsoft Swift Pair protocols, although retail packaging omits an included USB-C cable entirely.
7Color Palette Discrepancies
Reporting varies regarding available colorway options across regional markets. Engadget lists three launch finishes including orange, turquoise, and white. Meanwhile, Indian Express reports four total finishes with black included, noting interchangeable button accessories are bundled directly rather than sold as separate retail units.
8CMF Strategic Independence
This hardware launch follows Nothing's recent decision to spin off CMF into an India-based standalone subsidiary. The unit operates with autonomous management and dedicated local research teams. While units are available globally online, local availability dates for the Indian domestic market remain unannounced.
Original article: Engadget — CMF by Nothing Enters Portable Audio with Modular Speakers