Nothing Partners with Optiemus Infracom to Boost India Manufacturing, Targets 2% Market Share by 2025
- Why Is Nothing Betting Big on India?
- What’s the Deal with Optiemus Infracom?
- How Does CMF Fit Into Nothing’s India Strategy?
- Can Nothing Hit Its 2% Market Share Goal in India?
- What’s Next for Nothing?
- FAQs About Nothing’s India Expansion
Nothing, the tech startup backed by The Weeknd and Google Ventures, is doubling down on India with a new joint venture with Optiemus Infracom. The deal aims to create 1,800+ jobs, relocate CMF production to India, and push the company’s valuation to $1.3 billion. CEO Carl Pei sees India as the key to building the country’s first global smartphone brand, with plans to launch CMF Headphone Pro next week. Here’s the full breakdown.
Why Is Nothing Betting Big on India?
Nothing isn’t just dipping its toes into India—it’s diving in headfirst. The company has already invested over $200 million in the country and now plans to make it a global hub for manufacturing, R&D, and exports. CEO Carl Pei, who previously co-founded OnePlus, sees India as the next big frontier for tech. "The government’s ‘Make in India’ push has created a golden opportunity," Pei said in a recent tweet after meeting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. "India will shape the future of smartphones, and we want to be at the center of that."
What’s the Deal with Optiemus Infracom?
The joint venture with Optiemus Infracom, a major electronics manufacturer, is a strategic MOVE to scale production. Nothing aims to manufacture smartphones, audio gear, and eventually EVs and robotics in India. The partnership will create 1,800+ jobs over three years and solidify India as Nothing’s second-largest market after Europe. "We’re not just making phones here; we’re building a global brand from the ground up," Pei emphasized.
How Does CMF Fit Into Nothing’s India Strategy?
Nothing’s affordable sub-brand, CMF, is getting a full relocation to India. The line, which includes smartphones, earbuds, and smartwatches, has been a hit since its 2023 launch. Now, Pei wants to turn CMF into "India’s first truly global smartphone brand." The upcoming CMF Headphone Pro, set to launch on September 29, 2025, will be a litmus test for this ambition. Early teasers show customizable ear cushions and bold color options—clearly targeting Gen Z.
Can Nothing Hit Its 2% Market Share Goal in India?
India’s smartphone market is brutal, dominated by Xiaomi, Samsung, and Vivo. But Pei is confident. "We’re not here to play safe," he said. Nothing’s focus on design and affordability could carve out a niche, especially among younger buyers. Analysts at BTCC note that Nothing’s valuation jump to $1.3 billion signals strong investor confidence. Still, hitting 2% in a market this competitive won’t be easy.
What’s Next for Nothing?
Beyond smartphones, Nothing is eyeing smart glasses, humanoid robots, and EVs. The company’s OS expansion hints at a broader ecosystem play. "We’re starting with what we know—phones and audio—but the long game is much bigger," Pei teased. With India as its production backbone, Nothing could become a dark horse in global tech.
FAQs About Nothing’s India Expansion
What is Nothing’s valuation after the Optiemus deal?
Nothing’s valuation now stands at approximately $1.3 billion, up significantly due to its India investments and manufacturing push.
When will the CMF Headphone Pro launch?
The CMF Headphone Pro drops on September 29, 2025, featuring customizable designs and vibrant color options.
How many jobs will Nothing create in India?
The company plans to generate over 1,800 jobs in India within the next three years.
Why is Nothing relocating CMF production to India?
India offers cost efficiencies, a skilled workforce, and tariff advantages, making it ideal for global exports.
