The future is now, or at least, Android 16 is. Nothing, the company known for its transparent designs and bold software promises, is delivering on its word, pushing out Nothing OS 4.0 based on Android 16 to its Phone 3 users. This isn’t just another update; it’s a statement that Nothing is serious about keeping its devices on the cutting edge, even if it means burning the midnight oil. Android 16 publicly debuted in June, but users beyond Pixels and select Samsung Galaxy phones had to wait a while before the stable update landed on their phones.
The rollout, which began this week, brings a slew of improvements and new features, proving that software is just as important as hardware in today’s mobile landscape. Nothing rolled out Nothing OS 4.0 open beta in October and promised that the stable update would land in November .
Nothing OS 4.0 isn’t just about keeping up with the Joneses; it’s about forging its own path. The update focuses on three core pillars: faster responses, cleaner visuals, and smoother interactions. Think of it as a digital Marie Kondo, decluttering your phone’s experience and sparking joy with every interaction.
Visual Overhaul
Prepare for a visual feast. The update introduces minimalist icons, inspired by Android 16’s design language, along with a simplified status bar. It’s like going from a cluttered desk to a Zen garden, providing a sense of calm and focus. The company is also introducing “Extra Dark Mode,” which boasts deeper blacks and improved contrast, which is perfect for late-night scrolling or saving battery life. New lock screen clocks add another layer of personalization.
Productivity Powerhouse
Beyond aesthetics, Nothing OS 4.0 is designed to boost your productivity. The expanded Glyph Progress now integrates with Android 16, offering compatibility with a wider range of third-party apps for tracking rides, deliveries, and timers. This removes the previous limitations to specific partnerships and opens up a world of possibilities. Multitasking gets a significant upgrade with a refined “Pop-up View,” enabling Dual Windows, allowing you to run two floating apps simultaneously.
AI Enters the Fray
The future is intelligent, and Nothing is embracing AI with open arms. The new “Essential Apps (Playground)” feature lets users generate functional widgets through natural language chat with AI. Imagine describing the widget you want, and the AI brings it to life – no coding required. A centralized Widget Drawer lets you manage your creations and explore community-built widgets. The company also added a status bar hint that indicates when an LLM (Large Language Model) is active, paired with a Usage Dashboard to track AI activity.
Being the flagship has its perks. The Nothing Phone 3 gets some exclusive features that leverage its unique hardware. One standout is the Glyph Mirror Selfie, which utilizes the Glyph Interface to create a “Matrix-style” reflection for selfies. You can also toggle between Vibrate or Silent modes when placing the phone face down with the smarter Flip to Glyph. Pocket Mode disables the Glyph Matrix when the device detects it is in a pocket to prevent accidental triggers.
Rounding out the exclusives are two new Glyph Toys: Hourglass, visualizing the passage of time, and Lunar Cycle, tracking the moon’s position. It’s a playful touch that adds a unique layer of personalization.
Nothing OS 4.0 begins rolling out today onwards for the Nothing Phone 3. The company promises that the update will reach the rest of Nothing’s phone lineup (except 3a Lite) over the coming weeks, and to CMF smartphones . Nothing Phone 3a Lite is expected to receive the update early next year.
Nothing’s commitment to delivering timely and feature-rich updates sets a new standard in the Android ecosystem. By embracing AI, refining the user experience, and staying true to its unique design philosophy, Nothing is carving out a niche for itself. As the company continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, it’s clear that Nothing is not just building phones; it’s building a future.
