Nikhil Kamath Bets Big On Nothing: $21 Million Boost To AI-Driven Smartphone Vision

Zerodha’s Nikhil Kamath has made headlines with a bold $21 million investment in Nothing, the fast-growing smartphone brand founded by Carl Pei. The funding is part of Nothing’s $200 million Series C round, which values the company at $1.3 billion. Kamath’s backing reflects a growing convergence between Indian capital and global consumer tech innovation.

Key Highlights:

- Strategic Investment  
  Kamath announced the investment on X, calling Nothing “a brand shaping the future of consumer tech.” He emphasized the company’s design, affordability, and innovation as key drivers behind his decision.

- India’s Fastest-Growing Smartphone Brand  
  Nothing recorded 577% year-on-year growth in India by 2024 and held the title of fastest-scaling smartphone brand for six consecutive quarters through mid-2025.

- AI-Native Vision  
  The funds will support Nothing’s push to build an AI-native platform, merging hardware and software into a unified intelligent system. Kamath noted that “consumer hardware must reinvent itself alongside AI.”

- CMF Sub-Brand Expansion  
  Nothing’s CMF sub-brand, launched in 2023, focuses on affordable, design-centric tech. The company aims to make CMF India’s first truly global smartphone brand.

- Manufacturing Momentum  
  In June 2025, Nothing announced a $100 million joint venture with Optiemus Infracom to expand manufacturing in India, reinforcing its commitment to local production and global scale.

- Founder Synergy  
  Carl Pei welcomed Kamath’s partnership, stating, “Nikhil represents a new generation of Indian entrepreneurs. His collaboration is a strong signal of confidence in our long-term vision.”

- Market Insight  
  Kamath cited data showing that flagship phone specs have stagnated, and consumer upgrades now average every 3.5 years. He believes the next frontier is distinct design and brand identity.

- Broader Funding Round  
  The Series C round also included participation from Tiger Global, GV, EQT, Qualcomm Ventures, and others, highlighting Nothing’s growing appeal among global investors.

Sources: Business Today, Business Standard, Times of India