Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta Based on Android 16 Rolls Out for Nothing Phones

Nothing has officially launched the Nothing OS 4.0 open beta, giving select users early access to its Android 16-based software update. The rollout brings several new features, design tweaks, and performance improvements across the Nothing Phone 2, Phone 3, and the Phone 2a series, with more devices to follow soon. --- Key Highlights of Nothing OS 4.0 Beta Nothing’s Community Forum confirmed that the update is now live, introducing both visual and functional enhancements: New Quick Setting Tiles – Option for a 2×2 tile size for faster access. Lock Screen Personalization – Two brand-new clock face designs. Extra Dark Mode – A deeper dark theme for improved eye comfort. Pop-Up View with Floating Icons – Easier multitasking with two floating shortcuts for quick switching. Essential Apps Support – Create custom widgets that can be shared via the Nothing Playground. On the Nothing Phone 3, users can add up to six Essential Apps widgets, while the Phone 2 and 2a series currently support two. Nothing notes this is a temporary performance safeguard, with plans to raise the limit in future builds. --- Exclusive Features for Nothing Phone 3 The flagship Nothing Phone 3 gets extra tools, including an AI usage dashboard in Essential Space that tracks large model activity. It also delivers fixes for: Bluetooth connectivity Wi-Fi stability Display brightness issues Camera optimization --- Camera & Performance Upgrades Across Devices The “Stretch” camera preset arrives on the Nothing Phone 2, Phone 2a, and Phone 2a Plus, expanding creative shooting options. System-level app optimizations help reduce startup times and improve responsiveness. --- Availability Timeline Now Live: Nothing Phone 2, Nothing Phone 3, Nothing Phone 2a, and Nothing Phone 2a Plus. Coming Soon: Nothing Phone 3a series (expected October 2025). --- Why It Matters While Android 16 has been around for a few months, many manufacturers are still behind on updates. Nothing’s early adoption through this open beta signals its intent to keep pace with industry leaders, while also offering unique features like Essential Apps widgets and AI integration to differentiate its ecosystem.

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