Nothing OS 4.0: The AI-Powered Future Arrives with Essential Apps and Android 16
By [Kush]
| Operating System | AI Focus | Beta Available for |
|---|---|---|
| Android 16 | AI-Native | Phone (3), (2), (2a) |
What is Nothing OS 4.0?
Nothing OS 4.0 is more than just an annual update; it is a fundamental shift towards an operating system that learns and adapts to the user. Built on the core of Android 16, the OS aims to make the smartphone experience hyper-personalized and seamless. Its main pillars are AI integration, simplified design, and enhanced performance.
Key AI-Driven Features
The core of Nothing OS 4.0 lies in its new AI ecosystem, designed to make the phone feel "less of a menu and more like a teammate."
1. Essential Apps & The Playground
- Essential Apps: These are instantly generated, lightweight widgets based on simple text prompts, without needing any coding knowledge.
- The Playground: A community-driven platform where users can share their created Essential Apps, Glyph Toys, camera presets, and EQ profiles.
- Widget Limits: The Nothing Phone (3) supports up to six Essential App widgets, while other devices like the Phone (2) and Phone (2a) are currently limited to two.
2. AI Usage Dashboard (Phone 3 Exclusive)
For users of the Nothing Phone (3), a new dashboard has been added to the Essential Space. This feature enhances transparency by allowing users to monitor the activity of "large models" (like GPT-4o or Gemini Flash) operating in the background.
Design and Experience Updates
- Extra Dark Mode: A new setting introduces a true, pitch-black dark mode, which is easier on the eyes in low light and saves battery.
- New Multitasking: The Pop-up View is enhanced with two floating icons for faster switching.
- Lock Screen Customization: Two new lock screen clock faces have been added.
- Quick Settings Tiles: The Quick Settings panel now supports 2x2 tiles.
Performance and Camera Enhancements
- System-Level App Optimisation: Improves device startup speeds and overall responsiveness.
- 'Stretch' Camera Preset: Available for the Phone (2) and Phone (2a), this new preset enhances photos with richer shadows and extended highlights for a unique, cinematic look.
Eligible Devices and Rollout Timeline
| Device Series | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nothing Phone (3) | Open Beta Available | Receives exclusive AI Usage Dashboard. |
| Nothing Phone (2) | Open Beta Available | |
| Nothing Phone (2a) | Open Beta Available | Includes the new 'Stretch' Camera Preset. |
| Nothing Phone (3a) Series | Coming Soon | Beta expected later in October 2025. |
Interested users must enroll in the beta program before October 14th, when the Open Beta OTA terminals are scheduled to close.
Conclusion
Nothing OS 4.0 represents a clear step forward, not just for Nothing, but for the Android ecosystem. By merging a clean, minimalist aesthetic with sophisticated, user-driven AI features like Essential Apps, Nothing is carving out a niche for a truly personalized smartphone experience.
