Nothing has officially unveiled its next-generation software platform, Nothing OS 4.0, built on Android 16 and designed to deliver a more refined, intuitive, and cohesive user experience across its devices. The announcement marks a major leap forward for the brand’s software ambitions, bringing deeper design polish, smarter multitasking, and enhanced privacy controls to the forefront.
With a focus on minimalism, speed, and user empowerment, Nothing OS 4.0 introduces several new features that elevate the daily smartphone experience. From a redesigned interface to smarter camera tools and AI transparency, the update reflects Nothing’s commitment to blending purposeful design with cutting-edge functionality.
Refined Design Language
Nothing OS 4.0 builds on the clean aesthetic of its predecessor with sharper visuals and more consistent UI elements. The lock screen now features reimagined clock styles and a more responsive Always-on Display. Quick Settings have been redesigned with wider tiles and less clutter, making toggles easier to access and more visually balanced.
The overall interface feels smoother and more unified, with standardized components that reduce visual noise and improve usability. Every interaction has been fine-tuned to feel more natural, whether you’re adjusting brightness or switching between apps.
Extra Dark Mode
One of the standout additions is the new Extra Dark Mode, which deepens the system’s dark aesthetic for better contrast and reduced eye strain. This mode not only enhances visual comfort during nighttime use but also contributes to battery savings on OLED displays.
Users can toggle between standard dark mode and Extra Dark Mode depending on their environment, giving them more control over how their device looks and feels.
Smarter Multitasking with Pop-up View
Multitasking gets a boost with the new Pop-up View feature, allowing users to keep two floating app icons active for faster switching. This makes it easier to jump between tasks without breaking flow, especially when juggling messaging, browsing, and media playback.
The feature is designed to keep multitasking fluid and intuitive, helping users stay productive without needing to constantly return to the home screen or app drawer.
App Optimization and Performance Boosts
Nothing OS 4.0 introduces deeper app optimization across the board. Apps now launch faster, animations feel snappier, and system responsiveness has been noticeably improved. Background processes are better managed, resulting in smoother performance even on older devices.
The update also includes refined brightness controls, improved Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, and stronger overall system stability. These under-the-hood enhancements ensure that the OS feels fast and reliable in everyday use.
TrueLens Engine and Upgraded Camera Experience
Photography gets a major upgrade with the introduction of the TrueLens Engine, a new imaging pipeline that powers the updated Camera and Gallery apps. Users can expect better low-light performance, faster shutter speeds, and more accurate color reproduction.
The Gallery app has been redesigned with smarter sorting, creative presets, and a more intuitive layout. Whether you’re capturing moments or reliving them, the experience is smoother and more immersive.
AI Transparency and Control
In a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, Nothing OS 4.0 puts users in control. The new AI dashboard offers real-time insights into how AI features are being used across the system. Users can view usage stats, toggle AI modules, and receive contextual hints about AI behavior.
This transparency ensures that users are always informed and empowered, with the ability to manage AI features according to their preferences. Privacy remains a core pillar of the OS, with clear controls and minimal data collection.
Supported Devices
Nothing OS 4.0 will first roll out to the Nothing Phone (3), followed by the Phone (3a) Pro, CMF Phone 2 Pro, and other eligible devices. The update is based on Android 16 and will be delivered via an open beta program before a stable release later in 2025.
Unfortunately, the Nothing Phone (1) will not receive the update, as it has reached the end of its software support lifecycle. However, most devices released after the Phone (2) are expected to be eligible, ensuring a wide rollout across the Nothing ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
Nothing OS 4.0 is more than just a software update. It’s a statement of intent from a brand that continues to challenge conventional smartphone design and user experience. With thoughtful refinements, smarter tools, and a deeper focus on transparency, the update brings meaningful improvements that users will notice every day.
Whether you’re a longtime Nothing user or considering your first device, OS 4.0 offers a compelling reason to dive into the ecosystem. It’s clean, fast, and quietly powerful—just as technology should be.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is Nothing OS 4.0 based on?
Nothing OS 4.0 is built on Android 16 and includes several custom enhancements designed by Nothing.
Q2: Which devices will receive the Nothing OS 4.0 update?
The update will first roll out to the Nothing Phone (3), followed by Phone (3a) Pro, CMF Phone 2 Pro, and other eligible models. The Nothing Phone (1) will not receive the update.
Q3: What is Extra Dark Mode in Nothing OS 4.0?
Extra Dark Mode is a deeper version of the standard dark mode, offering enhanced contrast and reduced eye strain, especially in low-light environments.
Q4: What is Pop-up View and how does it help multitasking?
Pop-up View allows users to keep two floating app icons active, enabling faster switching between apps without returning to the home screen.
Q5: Has the camera experience improved in OS 4.0?
Yes, the new TrueLens Engine powers an upgraded Camera app with better low-light performance, faster shutter speeds, and smarter presets.
Q6: How does Nothing OS 4.0 handle AI features?
The OS includes an AI dashboard that shows usage stats, offers contextual hints, and allows users to control AI modules directly.
Q7: Is the update available now?
An open beta program is launching soon for select devices, with a stable rollout expected later in 2025.
Q8: Will older Nothing phones get the update?
Devices like the Nothing Phone (2) and newer CMF models are expected to receive the update. The Phone (1) has reached the end of its update cycle.
Q9: Are there improvements to system performance?
Yes, app launch speeds, animation smoothness, connectivity, and overall stability have all been improved in OS 4.0.
Q10: What makes Nothing OS 4.0 different from other Android skins?
Nothing OS 4.0 focuses on minimalism, transparency, and user control, offering a clean and cohesive experience that stands out from traditional Android interfaces.
