Nothing has confirmed that its latest operating system, Nothing OS 4.0, based on Android 16, will begin rolling out soon in open beta. The update will debut first on the Nothing Phone (3), with the Phone (2) and other recent models following shortly after. The company has also suggested that CMF-branded phones may receive the update once testing expands.
Nothing is positioning OS 4.0 as more than a standard Android skin, describing it as a sharper, more distinct take on Android 16 compared to competitors that have been trending toward softer, less distinctive interfaces. The update introduces redesigned lock screen clocks, simplified Quick Settings, and a focus on reducing visual clutter.
Among the headline features is an Extra Dark Mode, offering a deeper color scheme than before, aimed at both aesthetic appeal and eye comfort. A new Pop-up View allows users to keep two floating app icons on-screen, making task-switching easier, while app performance has been optimized for faster startup and smoother operation.
The camera experience is also set for improvement, with new creative presets, additional manual controls, and a revamped gallery designed to streamline photo organization. AI will play a larger role in Nothing OS 4.0 as well, but the company stresses transparency—users will be able to see which AI processes are running and why.
While the open beta will give early adopters a chance to try out these features, Nothing cautions that performance may not be consistent until the full release. Details on how to enroll in the beta program will be shared soon.
With Nothing OS 4.0, the company is signaling that it wants its software to stand apart as much as its hardware design does, offering users a distinct take on Android that blends clarity, customization, and AI-driven features.
