What’s New in Nothing OS 4.0?

Nothing has released the‍ Open Beta for Nothing OS 4.0, based on Android 16, for select Nothing phone models. This beta introduces a range of design refinements, performance improvements, and new features, including Essential Apps and the Playground.⁢ The update aims to provide‍ users with an early look at the next generation of Nothing’s software experience.

Compatible Devices

Currently, ​the Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta is available for the following devices:

• Nothing Phone 3
• Nothing ⁢Phone 2
• Nothing Phone 2a

As of October ⁣1, 2025, Nothing has not announced availability for the Phone 3a. [Droid Life]

Key Features and Changes

The Nothing OS 4.0 beta includes several notable changes and improvements. These include:

• Refined design: A visual‌ overhaul ⁤with updated aesthetics.
• Extra Dark Mode: An enhanced dark mode for improved visual comfort.
• App Optimization: Performance ⁣improvements for smoother app usage.
• Improved Photography Experience: Enhancements to the camera software.
• Pop-up View: A new way⁣ to manage and view apps.
• New Lock Screen Clock Faces: Two additional‍ clock face options for personalization.
• 2×2⁣ Quick Settings Tiles: increased functionality within the quick Settings panel.

introducing Essential Apps and Playground

Alongside the OS update, Nothing is introducing two​ new ⁣features: Essential Apps and Playground.

Essential Apps

Essential Apps are a⁢ curated selection of pre-installed applications designed to provide a streamlined user⁤ experience. Details on the specific apps included haven’t been ⁢fully released, but the intention is to ‍offer core functionality without bloatware. ‍

Playground

Playground is a new space within Nothing OS⁣ 4.0 that allows users ⁣to experiment with new features and customizations.‌ It’s designed as a testing ground for upcoming features and a way for Nothing to gather feedback from its community. This approach allows‍ for iterative development based on real-world user input.

How to Join the Open Beta

To participate in the Open Beta, users ‍with ​a compatible device should follow the instructions provided by⁢ Nothing through their official channels. This typically involves navigating to the⁤ software update section in the device settings and selecting the option ⁤to join the beta programme