Nothing has officially revealed Nothing OS 4.0, its new Android 16-based operating system. The update promises sharper visuals, smoother performance, and smarter AI features, all while keeping the user experience simple and clean.
The design gets a big refresh. The interface now uses standardised elements, and the lock screen has been redesigned. Quick Settings have a cleaner look with wider tiles, and dark mode has deeper contrast to make it easier on the eyes and more power efficient. There’s also a new brightness slider for finer control and more options for the Always-on Display.
Multitasking is smoother with the new Pop-up View. Users can keep two floating app icons ready for quick switching. Swiping gestures let you minimise or expand apps easily. Apps themselves are faster to launch, thanks to deeper optimisation across the system.
The Camera app now comes with new controls and creative presets, while the Gallery has been reworked for easier navigation. A new AI dashboard lets users track how AI is being used and manage its behaviour, with the company stressing that privacy remains a key focus.
Connectivity is also stronger, with better Wi-Fi and Bluetooth performance. The system is more stable overall and now allows quicker access to Bluetooth recording.
The open beta for Nothing OS 4.0 will start soon, after closed beta testing on the Phone 3 last month. The stable rollout is planned for September, with the Phone 3 being the first to receive it. Other eligible devices include the Phone 2, Phone 2a, Phone 2a Plus, Phone 3a, Phone 3a Pro, CMF Phone 1, and CMF Phone 2 Pro. The original Phone 1 will not get the update, as it has reached the end of its support cycle.
