The mid-range smartphone market in India is buzzing again, but this time, it is not for a newly launched device. The CMF Phone 2 Pro, originally launched in early 2025, has suddenly become a trending topic this week.
Why is a one-year-old phone trending now? Two big reasons: a significant price drop on Flipkart and the recent rollout of the highly anticipated Nothing OS 4.0 update. If you are looking for a premium camera experience on a tight budget in 2026, this might just be the “new” phone you need.
Here is everything you need to know about the CMF Phone 2 Pro’s resurgence and whether it is worth buying in February 2026.
Why Is the CMF Phone 2 Pro Trending Now?
1. Major Price Cut
When it first launched in April 2025, the CMF Phone 2 Pro was priced around ₹18,999 to ₹20,999. However, recent listings on Flipkart show the device selling for as low as ₹16,999 (and sometimes lower with bank offers).
This price adjustment positions it aggressively against 2026 budget phones from Realme and Redmi, which often cut corners on camera hardware to save costs.
Read more: Lava Bold N1 Pro
2. The Nothing OS 4.0 Update
Nothing recently pushed the Nothing OS 4.0 update (based on Android 16) to the CMF Phone 2 Pro. This update has breathed new life into the device. Users are reporting smoother animations, better battery management, and new customization features that make the phone feel brand new.
Key Features That Still Stand Out in 2026
Even though it is a 2025 model, the specs of the CMF Phone 2 Pro are surprisingly better than many fresh launches in the under-₹20,000 segment today.
The “Pro” Camera Setup
The biggest selling point remains its camera. While most budget phones in 2026 stick to a main camera + a useless macro lens, the CMF Phone 2 Pro offers a triple camera setup:
- Main: 50MP Sony sensor (with OIS).
- Telephoto: 50MP Portrait lens with 2x Optical Zoom (very rare in this price range).
- Ultrawide: 8MP sensor.
The 2x telephoto lens allows for stunning portrait shots without the digital blur mess found in other budget phones.
Performance & Display
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Pro. It is not the fastest chip in 2026, but it is extremely power-efficient and handles daily multitasking and casual gaming (like BGMI) easily.
- Screen: 6.77-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. It is bright, sharp, and supports HDR content.
- Design: The signature CMF modular design lets you unscrew the back panel to change colors or add accessories like a stand or lanyard.
Is It Better Than 2026 Budget Phones?
Many buyers are confused between buying the older CMF Phone 2 Pro or a newer 2026 budget phone (like the rumored Redmi Note 15 series or Realme P-series).
Why Buy CMF Phone 2 Pro:
- You want a Telephoto lens (Zoom) for portraits.
- You want a clean, ad-free software experience (Nothing OS is unmatched here).
- You like unique designs and customizable back panels.
Why Skip It:
- You need extreme fast charging (CMF supports 33W, while rivals now offer 65W+).
- You are a hardcore gamer who needs the latest Snapdragon 8-series chips.
Nothing OS 4: What Changed?
The new update has fixed the few complaints users had at launch.
- Dual Pop-up View: You can now run two apps in floating windows simultaneously.
- Faster App Launching: The software feels snappier.
- Battery Optimization: The 5,000 mAh battery now easily lasts over a day and a half for moderate users.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
Yes. At ₹16,999, the CMF Phone 2 Pro is arguably the best value-for-money camera phone in India right now.
While it doesn’t have the “fresh” hype of a 2026 launch, its hardware (specifically that telephoto lens) and the polished software experience make it a smarter buy than many newer, plasticky budget phones. If you want a phone that looks unique and takes great photos without breaking the bank, this is the one to pick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the current price of CMF Phone 2 Pro in India?
As of February 2026, the price has dropped to approximately ₹16,999 on Flipkart. Bank offers may lower this further.
Q2: Does CMF Phone 2 Pro have a good camera?
Yes. It is one of the few phones under ₹20,000 to feature a 50MP Telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom, making it excellent for portrait photography.
Q3: Is the CMF Phone 2 Pro good for gaming?
It is decent for casual gaming. The Dimensity 7300 Pro can handle games like BGMI and COD Mobile at medium-to-high settings, but it is not a dedicated gaming phone.
Q4: Will CMF Phone 2 Pro get Android 17?
CMF by Nothing promised 2 major Android updates. Since it launched with Android 15 and just got Android 16 (Nothing OS 4), it is likely to get Android 17 as its final major OS update.
Q5: Does the box come with a charger?
Yes, unlike the original CMF Phone 1, the CMF Phone 2 Pro Indian retail box includes a 33W charger.
