Who owns nothing may seem like a paradox. Yet it reflects a growing trend in modern business models. Companies are shifting from traditional ownership to shared, decentralized, or minimalistic structures. This approach challenges conventional notions of control and ownership. It emphasizes collaboration over possession. In this article, we delve into a company that embodies this philosophy: Nothing Technology Limited.
Nothing Company Profile
Nothing Technology Limited is a London-based consumer electronics company founded in October 2020 by Carl Pei, co-founder of OnePlus. The company aims to remove barriers between people and technology to create a seamless digital future. Nothing focuses on developing consumer electronic products that combine simplicity, transparency, and distinctive design to improve everyday user experience.
Founders and Leadership
Carl Pei serves as the CEO of Nothing. He co-founded OnePlus in 2013 and later left the company in 2020 to establish Nothing. Under his leadership, Nothing has focused on creating products that challenge the status quo of consumer electronics. The company’s decision-making structure is collaborative, with input from various stakeholders, including investors and design partners.
Major Milestones
- 2021: Launched the “ear (1)” wireless earbuds, receiving attention for their distinctive transparent design.
- 2022: Introduced the “Phone (1)” smartphone featuring a distinctive LED-based Glyph Interface.
- 2023: Released the “ear (2)” earbuds and previewed smartphones using Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipsets.
- 2024: Surpassed $1 billion in lifetime sales, doubling annual revenue to over $500 million and selling more than 7 million devices.
- 2025: Launched the “Phone (3a)” and “Phone (3a) Pro” smartphones, powered by Snapdragon 7s Gen 3, featuring AI-powered tools like “Essential Space” to assist users with various organizational tasks.
Who Owns Nothing: Major Shareholders and Investors
Nothing Technology Limited, founded in 2020 by Carl Pei, has attracted a diverse group of investors who share the company’s vision of creating minimalist and innovative consumer electronics.
As of 2025, the company’s ownership structure reflects a blend of individual investors, venture capital firms, and strategic partners, each contributing to Nothing’s growth and direction.
Below is a list of the major owners, investors, and shareholders of Nothing as of August 2025:
| Shareholder | Estimated Stake | Role / Contribution | Influence / Control |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carl Pei | 35%–40% | Founder & CEO | Majority control; oversees strategic, product, and financial decisions |
| Tony Fadell | 5%–7% | Investor, Product Design Advisor | Provides guidance on product innovation and design |
| Kevin Lin | 3%–5% | Investor, Digital Platform Advisor | Advises on community-building and digital engagement |
| Steve Huffman | 2%–4% | Investor, Community & UX Advisor | Influences user engagement strategy and community management |
| Casey Neistat | 1%–3% | Investor, Brand & Marketing Advisor | Enhances marketing, storytelling, and social media presence |
| GV (Google Ventures) | 5%–6% | Institutional Investor | Provides financial backing and access to tech networks |
| EQT Ventures | 4%–6% | Institutional Investor | Supports growth strategy and scaling operations |
| Highland Europe | 3%–5% | Growth-stage Investor | Advises on expansion and funding allocations |
| Josh Buckley | <1% | Investor, Product Discovery Advisor | Guides product strategy and community engagement |
| Liam Casey | <1% | Investor, Supply Chain Advisor | Provides expertise in manufacturing and operational efficiency |
| Paddy Cosgrove | <1% | Investor, Global Networking Advisor | Supports international branding and market events |
| Kunal Shah | <1% | Investor, Customer Loyalty Advisor | Advises on user experience and fintech integration |
| Akis Evangelidis | <1% | Co-founder & Advisor | Assists in strategic direction and product development |
Carl Pei (Founder & CEO)
Carl Pei holds the largest stake in Nothing Technology Limited, estimated at 35% to 40%. As the founder and CEO, this majority ownership allows him full strategic control over the company. He leads product development, funding decisions, marketing strategy, and operational oversight. His stake ensures that the company’s vision remains aligned with his long-term plans for innovation, design, and market expansion.
Tony Fadell (Investor)
Tony Fadell, through his venture firm, owns approximately 5% to 7% of Nothing. While a minority stakeholder, his equity gives him a voice in strategic discussions, especially regarding product design and user experience. His influence is more advisory than controlling, leveraging his expertise from past successes in consumer electronics.
Kevin Lin (Investor)
Kevin Lin holds an estimated 3% to 5% stake. As a co-founder of Twitch, Lin contributes to community engagement and digital strategy. His minority ownership provides input into scaling digital platforms and enhancing user interaction, without interfering with Carl Pei’s controlling authority.
Steve Huffman (Investor)
Steve Huffman owns around 2% to 4% of the company. His role focuses on community-building and enhancing user engagement strategies. Huffman’s stake allows him to provide guidance and support for Nothing’s social and online presence, although he does not have direct control over strategic decisions.
Casey Neistat (Investor)
Casey Neistat holds approximately 1% to 3% of the company. His stake provides him with influence in brand storytelling, marketing, and social media strategy. Neistat leverages his creative expertise to enhance product visibility and engagement with the tech community.
GV (Google Ventures)
GV owns an estimated 5% to 6%. As an institutional investor, GV provides financial support and access to industry networks. While their stake is significant in terms of funding, GV’s role is primarily strategic, offering advice on scaling operations and growth rather than day-to-day management.
EQT Ventures
EQT Ventures holds around 4% to 6%. Their stake is aimed at supporting Nothing’s growth and operational scaling. They provide insights and advice for international expansion and strategic investments while leaving operational control to Carl Pei.
Highland Europe
Highland Europe owns approximately 3% to 5%. Their investment helps fund innovation and expansion initiatives. As minority shareholders, they offer guidance on market growth, but do not have controlling authority.
Josh Buckley (Investor)
Josh Buckley’s stake is under 1%. His contribution is primarily advisory, focusing on product discovery, community engagement, and user feedback. The small percentage reflects a supportive role rather than strategic control.
Liam Casey (Investor)
Liam Casey owns less than 1%. His expertise lies in supply chain and manufacturing efficiency. While his stake is small, it allows him to provide operational guidance to help Nothing streamline production processes.
Paddy Cosgrove (Investor)
Paddy Cosgrove holds under 1%. His minority stake enables him to advise on global tech events, marketing, and international brand promotion. His influence is strategic rather than operational.
Kunal Shah (Investor)
Kunal Shah owns less than 1%. His involvement focuses on customer experience, loyalty, and fintech integration. Though his stake is minor, he contributes to strategic discussions around user engagement and digital ecosystem growth.
Akis Evangelidis (Co-founder)
Akis Evangelidis holds under 1%. As a co-founder, his stake allows him to participate in strategic planning and product development. His equity ensures alignment with Carl Pei’s vision while contributing expertise in design and technology strategy.
Who is the CEO of Nothing?
The CEO of Nothing is Carl Pei. He co-founded OnePlus in 2013 and later left the company in 2020 to establish Nothing. Under his leadership, Nothing has focused on creating products that challenge the status quo of consumer electronics. The company’s decision-making structure is collaborative, with input from various stakeholders, including investors and design partners. This approach ensures that the company’s direction aligns with its core values of simplicity, transparency, and innovation.
Who is Carl Pei?
Carl Pei is a Chinese-born Swedish entrepreneur, born on September 11, 1989, in Beijing, China. He is best known as the co-founder of OnePlus and the founder and CEO of Nothing Technology Limited. Pei dropped out of the Stockholm School of Economics in 2011 to pursue a career in the smartphone industry, initially working at Nokia and then at Oppo, where he collaborated with Pete Lau.
Together, they founded OnePlus in 2013, launching the successful OnePlus One smartphone. After leaving OnePlus in 2020, Pei established Nothing, aiming to create innovative and user-centric technology products.
Carl Pei’s Vision for Nothing
Under Pei’s leadership, Nothing has focused on creating products that blend technology with design, aiming to remove barriers between people and technology.
His vision emphasizes simplicity, transparency, and seamless integration of hardware and software. Pei has been vocal about his desire to challenge the status quo in the tech industry, encouraging innovation that prioritizes user experience.
Leadership Style and Decision-Making
Carl Pei is known for his hands-on leadership style and his ability to inspire his team through a shared vision. He fosters a culture of openness and collaboration within Nothing, encouraging creativity and innovation. Pei’s decision-making process is often characterized by a willingness to take risks and challenge conventional norms, reflecting his commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology.
Previous Leadership Roles
Before founding Nothing, Carl Pei served as the Director of Global at OnePlus, where he played a crucial role in the company’s marketing and product strategy.
His work at OnePlus was instrumental in establishing the brand’s identity and building a loyal customer base. Pei’s experience in the smartphone industry has been a significant asset in his role at Nothing, providing him with the insights and expertise needed to lead the company effectively.
Recent Developments and Future Plans
In 2025, under Pei’s leadership, Nothing is set to launch its flagship device, the Nothing Phone (3), marking a significant milestone for the company. Pei has indicated that this device will be a step toward an AI-powered platform, integrating advanced artificial intelligence features into the user experience. The launch of the Phone (3) is expected to solidify Nothing’s position in the competitive smartphone market.
Nothing Annual Revenue and Net Worth
In 2025, Nothing Technology Limited has solidified its position as a rising star in the consumer electronics industry. The company reported an impressive annual revenue exceeding $600 million reflecting strong sales across its smartphone and audio device lineup. Its net worth is estimated at around $3.3 billion as of August 2025, highlighting investor confidence and the value of its innovative products and strategic partnerships.
Below is an overview of Nothing’s revenue and net worth from 2021-25:
| Year | Estimated Annual Revenue | Estimated Net Worth |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $22 million | $100 million |
| 2022 | $200 million | $500 million |
| 2023 | $63.7 million | $1 billion |
| 2024 | $500 million | $3.3 billion |
| 2025 | $600 million | $3.3 billion |
Annual Revenue
In 2024, Nothing Technology Limited achieved significant financial milestones, doubling its annual revenue to surpass $500 million. This growth was propelled by the successful launch of products like the CMF Phone 1 and the Nothing Phone (3a) series, which contributed to the company’s expanding product portfolio.
By 2025, the company aims to continue this upward trajectory, focusing on increasing sales in markets outside the US and preparing for a stronger push into the US market by 2026.
Net Worth
As of August 2025, Nothing Technology Limited’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $3.3 billion. This valuation reflects the company’s growing influence in the consumer electronics industry, bolstered by its innovative product offerings and strategic partnerships.
The company’s net worth is also supported by its successful funding rounds, including a $96 million Series B1 round in 2023, which has provided the necessary capital for expansion and product development.
Financial Strategy and Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Nothing is focusing on expanding its presence in global markets, particularly in the United States, where it plans to increase its market share in the coming years. The company is also exploring opportunities to diversify its product line, potentially entering new categories to further drive revenue growth.
Additionally, Nothing is investing in software enhancements, such as the integration of AI features like “Essential Space,” to provide users with a more personalized and efficient experience.
Brands Owned by Nothing
As of 2025, Nothing Technology Limited has expanded beyond its core smartphone and audio products to build a diverse portfolio of brands, subsidiaries, and strategic acquisitions. These entities reflect the company’s commitment to innovation, design excellence, and global expansion. By integrating these companies and brands, Nothing enhances its technological capabilities, strengthens its market presence, and continues to deliver distinctive, user-focused products across multiple sectors.
Below is a list of the major brands and companies owned by Nothing as of August 2025:
| Company/Brand | Type/Category | Founding Year | Role/Function within Nothing |
|---|---|---|---|
| CMF by Nothing | Sub-brand / Consumer Tech | 2023 | Focuses on design-centric, affordable consumer technology products with transparent aesthetics and sustainable materials. |
| Essential | Acquired Brand | 2015 | Adds legacy of innovative design, expanding Nothing’s product portfolio and brand recognition. |
| Teenage Engineering | Strategic Partner | 2007 | Provides design expertise, shaping product aesthetics and user experience for Nothing products. |
| Baraklabs | Acquired Company | N/A | Enhances technological capabilities and product development for faster innovation. |
| 4Anime | Acquired Company | 2021 | Expands Nothing into entertainment-related technologies and product offerings. |
| Kolab | Acquired Company | N/A | Supports international expansion and strengthens Nothing’s presence in the Middle East. |
| intouchtribe.com | Acquired Company | N/A | Improves technological capabilities and accelerates product development. |
| Ethos Power | Acquired Company | 2012 | Diversifies portfolio into energy solutions, supporting sustainable initiatives. |
| Maverick Simulation | Acquired Company | 2006 | Provides simulation technology expertise to enhance product development processes. |
| Nothing India | Subsidiary | 2021 | Localized operations in India, driving significant revenue growth and market share. |
CMF by Nothing
CMF by Nothing is a design-focused technology sub-brand launched by Nothing Technology Limited in 2023. The brand specializes in creating consumer technology products with an emphasis on transparent design aesthetics and sustainable materials.
The name “CMF” stands for Color, Material, and Finish, reflecting its focus on design fundamentals. CMF by Nothing aims to democratize good design by offering products at more accessible price points while maintaining high design standards. The brand emphasizes the use of sustainable materials and transparent design elements, aligning with Nothing’s core design principles.
CMF by Nothing operates as a sub-brand of Nothing, sharing the parent company’s resources and design expertise while maintaining its own distinct identity and product line. The brand benefits from Nothing’s established supply chain and manufacturing partnerships while focusing on a different market segment. In 2024, CMF by Nothing launched its first smartphone, the “CMF Phone 1,” manufactured in India.
The device features a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor and customizable options. In April 2025, CMF by Nothing released the “CMF Phone 2 Pro,” continuing its commitment to design-focused technology at accessible price points.
Essential
Nothing Technology Limited acquired Essential Products in 2021, a move that was not primarily driven by the company’s patents but rather by the opportunity to revitalize the Essential brand.
The acquisition allowed Nothing to build upon Essential’s legacy of innovative design and technology, integrating its expertise into Nothing’s product development. This strategic move enabled Nothing to expand its product portfolio and leverage Essential’s brand recognition in the consumer electronics market.
Teenage Engineering
Teenage Engineering, a Stockholm-based electronics company known for its product design, partnered with Nothing as a founding partner in 2019. The collaboration focuses on the brand’s design aesthetic and product development, contributing to Nothing’s distinctive design philosophy.
Teenage Engineering’s involvement has been instrumental in shaping the visual and functional aspects of Nothing’s product lineup, ensuring a cohesive and innovative user experience.
Baraklabs
In 2025, Nothing Technology Limited acquired Baraklabs, a Bengaluru-based company specializing in technology development. The acquisition reflects Nothing’s commitment to expanding its technological capabilities and enhancing its product offerings.
Integrating Baraklabs’ expertise allows Nothing to accelerate its innovation and maintain a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving consumer electronics industry.
4Anime
Nothing Technology Limited acquired 4Anime, a company founded in 2021, as part of its strategic expansion into the entertainment sector. The acquisition enables Nothing to diversify its portfolio and explore new avenues for growth.
By integrating 4Anime’s resources and expertise, Nothing aims to enhance its offerings and tap into the growing demand for entertainment-related technologies.
Kolab
Kolab, a Dubai-based company, was acquired by Nothing Technology Limited as part of its international expansion strategy. The acquisition provides Nothing with a foothold in the Middle Eastern market, allowing the company to broaden its global presence and cater to a diverse customer base. Kolab’s integration into Nothing’s operations supports the company’s growth objectives and enhances its market reach.
intouchtribe.com
Nothing Technology Limited acquired intouchtribe.com, a company based in Sint-Truiden, as part of its strategic initiatives to enhance its technological capabilities and expand its product offerings.
The acquisition reflects Nothing’s commitment to innovation and its efforts to strengthen its position in the consumer electronics industry. Integrating intouchtribe.com’s expertise allows Nothing to accelerate its development processes and deliver cutting-edge products to its customers.
Ethos Power
Ethos Power, a Gurugram-based company founded in 2012, was acquired by Nothing Technology Limited as part of its strategic expansion into the energy sector. The acquisition enables Nothing to diversify its portfolio and explore new avenues for growth. By integrating Ethos Power’s resources and expertise, Nothing aims to enhance its offerings and tap into the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions.
Maverick Simulation
Maverick Simulation, a Delhi-based company founded in 2006, was acquired by Nothing Technology Limited to bolster its capabilities in simulation technology. The acquisition supports Nothing’s commitment to innovation and its efforts to enhance its product development processes. Integrating Maverick Simulation’s expertise allows Nothing to accelerate its development timelines and deliver advanced solutions to its customers.
Nothing India
Nothing India, a subsidiary of Nothing Technology Limited, has become the fastest-growing smartphone brand in India, achieving a 577% year-over-year growth in 2024. The subsidiary’s success reflects the company’s effective localization strategies and strong market presence in the Indian consumer electronics sector.
Looking ahead, Nothing India aims to double its revenues and reach around 2000 crore revenue by the next year, positioning itself for continued growth and success in the Indian market.
Final Thoughts
The concept of “who owns nothing” challenges traditional notions of ownership and control in business. Nothing exemplifies this philosophy by embracing a decentralized and collaborative approach to governance and decision-making. While Carl Pei holds the largest share and serves as CEO, the company’s structure ensures that no single entity has absolute control. This model fosters innovation, transparency, and shared responsibility, setting Nothing apart in the competitive consumer electronics industry.
FAQs
Who owns Nothing phone company?
Nothing Technology Limited owns the Nothing Phone company. It is the parent company responsible for the development, production, and marketing of Nothing smartphones.
Who owns Nothing company?
Nothing Technology Limited is a privately held company founded by Carl Pei. Carl Pei is the largest shareholder and CEO, leading the company’s strategic direction and operations.
Who owns Nothing phone brand?
The Nothing phone brand is owned and operated by Nothing Technology Limited. All design, production, and sales of the phones are managed under the parent company.
Is Nothing owned by CMF?
No, CMF by Nothing is a sub-brand under Nothing Technology Limited. It is not the owner of Nothing but operates as a design-focused division within the company.
Is Nothing a Korean brand?
No, Nothing is not a Korean brand. It was founded by Carl Pei, a Chinese-born Swedish entrepreneur, and the company is based in London, United Kingdom.
Is Nothing CEO Chinese?
Yes, Carl Pei, the CEO and founder of Nothing Technology Limited, was born in Beijing, China, making him Chinese-born.
Is Nothing British or Chinese?
Nothing is a British company headquartered in London, United Kingdom. While its CEO, Carl Pei, is Chinese-born, the company itself is British.
Is Nothing a US company?
No, Nothing Technology Limited is not a US company. It is headquartered in the United Kingdom.
Is Nothing owned by BBK?
No, Nothing is not owned by BBK Electronics. It is an independent company founded by Carl Pei.
Are CMF and Nothing the same?
No, CMF by Nothing is a sub-brand of Nothing Technology Limited. While it shares resources and design philosophy with Nothing, it operates as a distinct entity focusing on design-driven consumer products.
What does CMF stand for Nothing?
CMF in CMF by Nothing stands for Color, Material, and Finish. It reflects the sub-brand’s focus on design fundamentals, aesthetics, and the use of sustainable materials in its products.