Nothing has announced its next major software update, Nothing OS 4.0, building on the company’s philosophy of creating a simple and intuitive user experience, after teasers at the Nothing Phone (3) launch. The update, which is set to enter an open beta program, focuses on refining the operating system’s design and introducing new features.
According to the company, Nothing OS 4.0 is a continuation of its efforts to create a “human-centric” mobile experience. It emphasizes a clean, unified aesthetic where software and hardware are designed to work together seamlessly.
Key Features of Nothing OS 4.0
The new version of the OS introduces several changes aimed at enhancing the user experience.
- Refined Design: Nothing OS 4.0 brings a more streamlined look with redesigned elements like lock screen clocks and cleaner Quick Settings. The goal is to reduce visual clutter and create a more cohesive interface.
- Extra Dark Mode: An enhanced dark mode has been added, designed to be deeper and more refined. This feature is intended to reduce eye strain and improve power efficiency.
- Pop-up View: This multitasking feature allows users to keep two floating app icons on the screen, enabling faster switching between tasks without interrupting the workflow.
- App Optimization: The update includes fine-tuning of how applications launch and run, which the company says will lead to improved speed, responsiveness, and overall smoothness.
- Photography Experience: The camera and gallery apps are being updated with a new interface and controls, powered by what Nothing calls the TrueLens Engine. These changes are designed to make capturing and viewing photos a more fluid process.
- User-Controlled AI: Nothing OS 4.0 places a strong emphasis on user control and transparency regarding AI features. New tools, including AI (LLM) status hints and a usage dashboard, are designed to give users more oversight and management of AI behaviors.
- General Improvements: The update also includes a variety of smaller enhancements, such as a more responsive lock screen and Always-On Display (AOD), clearer brightness controls, and improved connectivity for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Availability
The company has stated that an open beta program for Nothing OS 4.0 will be launched soon, offering users an early look at the new features along with an exclusive preview of Android 16.
Nothing recently confirmed that the Nothing Phone (1) will not get the Nothing OS 4.0 update since it has fulfilled its commitment of providing three years of software updates for the device, with security updates continuing through 2026.