Nothing’s affordable-focused brand CMF is stepping out on its own. Launched in 2023 with a $69 smartwatch and $49 true wireless earbuds, the fast-growing label is now becoming an independent subsidiary and will drop the “by Nothing” tag. The company’s headquarters, operations, R&D, and manufacturing will be based in India.
As part of this shift, CMF is entering a strategic manufacturing joint venture with Optiemus Infracom, a veteran Indian electronics player established in 1993. Nothing plans to leverage Optiemus’ engineering and production capabilities to scale output from India. According to the company, this move positions CMF as India’s first global smartphone and smart hardware company, aligning with national initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
The expansion comes with significant investment. Nothing and Optiemus will put more than $100 million into building manufacturing and export capabilities over the next three years, a push expected to create over 1,800 jobs. For consumers, that could translate into faster product rollouts, tighter quality control, and more competitive pricing as more development and production shift onshore.
CMF will continue focusing on value-driven hardware, with the CMF Headphone Pro set to be its first over-ear model. The design leans into the brand’s playful aesthetic, shown in a Cyan finish with replaceable ear cushions. A built-in slider and scroll wheel will handle volume and playback controls. The CMF Headphone Pro is scheduled to launch on September 29, though pricing has not yet been announced.
From budget wearables to audio gear, CMF’s next chapter signals a bigger global push rooted in India’s manufacturing ecosystem, with an emphasis on accessible design, colorful styling, and everyday functionality.
