The controversy began after eagle-eyed users noticed that some of the “sample photos” on Nothing’s website were not taken with the device at all, but were instead stock images shot with professional cameras.

The photos were presented as examples of the Phone 3’s capabilities, prompting criticism on social media.

Nothing co-founder Akis Evangelidis has now taken to X (formerly Twitter) to explain the company's actions, writing: “An initial version of the LDU [live demo unit] needs to be submitted with placeholders around 4 months before launch, to be implemented and tested as we ramp up towards mass production.

“Once we enter mass production, those placeholder images are replaced with photo samples through a new version of the LDU, along with final product renders and videos.

“In this case, it was brought to our attention that some live demo units stock imagery were not updated.

“We are actively rectifying this and working with our promoters to ensure all LDUs reflect the latest version.”

Evangelidis added Nothing was also “ investigating internally to make sure such an issue doesn’t happen again”.

He concluded: “This was an unfortunate oversight, and I want to emphasise that there was no ill intent.”

The Nothing Phone 3, released in July, is marketed as the London company’s most advanced handset yet, featuring a triple-camera setup with a 50MP main sensor, ultrawide capabilities and improved night photography.

The brand, founded by former OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei, has built its reputation on stylish design and transparent marketing - making the misstep especially notable.