What’s New in Nothing OS 4.0? The Open Beta Arrives with Android 16

Nothing has announced the open beta release of its much-awaited Nothing OS 4.0, based on Android 16. This new version brings practical tools and performance tweaks, focusing on clarity and user control. Let’s look at the top features and what separates this update from earlier versions.

Android 16 Foundation: Fast, Flexible, and Feature-Rich

Nothing OS 4.0 builds directly on Android 16, allowing users to benefit from Google’s recent enhancements. Expect a smoother interface, upgraded privacy tools, and more adaptive notifications. With the open beta arriving ahead of many competitors, Nothing gives its users a head start with the latest Android platform.

New AI Usage Dashboard in Essential Space

On the Nothing Phone 3, users can access a new AI usage dashboard in “Essential Space.” This tool helps users track all large model activity, giving complete insight into how AI is used across apps. It makes security and transparency a priority, letting people understand — and control — what’s happening on their devices.

Essential Apps and Widgets with Playground Integration

Nothing introduces “Essential Apps,” empowering users to design widgets and share them through the Playground portal. The latest Nothing Phone 3 supports up to six Essential App widgets on its home screen, while older models allow up to two. These widgets let users personalize — for example, creating shortcuts to media, camera modes, or quick settings — making vital features accessible in a tap. The limit is temporary; Nothing promises to raise it soon for all models.

Camera Improvements and Unique Presets

The update focuses on imaging too. A new “Stretch” Camera preset, developed with photographer Jordan Hemingway, enhances images with richer shadows and wider highlights. Nothing Phone 2, 2a, and 2a Plus receive this creative upgrade for a more distinctive photography experience.

Design Tweaks and New Display Features

Nothing OS 4.0 debuts two new lock screen clock faces for a fresh look every day. Users can also enable “Extra Dark Mode,” adding deeper blacks and improved visibility in low light. The update introduces a new Pop-Up View with two floating icons, making app switching smoother than ever before.

Faster App Startup and General Performance Boosts

Performance improvements are at the heart of Nothing OS 4.0. The beta brings new app optimization tools, promising quicker app launches and snappier overall behavior. Additional updates target better lock screen performance, more responsive brightness controls, and system stability. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections see significant boosts as well.

Broader Beta Access for More Nothing Phones

Nothing OS 4.0 is rolling out now for the Nothing Phone 2, 2a, 2a Plus, and the new flagship, Phone 3. Owners of the Nothing Phone 3a series can expect access to the open beta later in October. This wide reach ensures that most Nothing users can experience the latest features without waiting months for a final stable release.

Essential Recommendations Before Installing the Beta

As with any beta software, Nothing recommends backing up all important data before updating. Users may notice devices run warmer or use extra power immediately after updating, but this should return to normal quickly. To join the beta, ensure the device runs the latest stable build, then follow the instructions in the phone’s “About” section to access the update.

Practical Additions for Everyday Use

• 2×2 Quick Settings tile support enables fast access to frequent actions on the notification pane.
• The Pop-Up View now includes two floating icons, making navigation seamless between apps.
• System app optimization brings faster startup and improved daily usability for all compatible devices.

Rolling out Smarter, Simpler Mobile Tools

Nothing OS 4.0’s open beta proves the company is listening closely to its users. By including both creative tools and useful system upgrades, Nothing aims to make every model — from its flagship to budget offerings — run smoother, feel more personal, and stay up-to-date with the best Android has to offer.