Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta Update Rolls Out: Eligible Phones and Key Features

Nothing has released the Nothing OS 4.0 open beta update, bringing Android 16-based improvements to select devices. The rollout introduces AI tools, camera upgrades, design changes, and performance optimisations across the Nothing Phone lineup.

The update is available for the Nothing Phone (3), Phone (2), Phone (2a), and Phone (2a) Plus. A release for the Phone (3a) series is expected later in October. The company confirmed the update through official announcements, highlighting its focus on AI, stability, and user experience.

New Features in Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta Update

For the flagship Phone (3), the update debuts the AI Usage Dashboard inside Essential Space. This feature lets users monitor activity from large AI models directly on their device, ensuring greater transparency. Other enhancements include better lock screen performance, improved always-on display, stronger Wi-Fi stability, and more reliable Bluetooth connectivity.

Another major addition is the Essential Apps and Playground. Users can now create and share AI-powered widgets. Phone (3) supports up to six widgets, while other models currently allow two. This addition makes the system more flexible and interactive.

For Phone (2), Phone (2a), and Phone (2a) Plus users, the highlight is the new Stretch Camera preset. Developed in collaboration with fashion photographer Jordan Hemingway, it gives images deeper shadows, extended highlights, and cinematic contrast. These improvements aim to deliver a stylised look without editing.

The update also introduces App Optimisation, a system-level feature that improves resource management. Apps start faster, background activity is better controlled, and multitasking becomes smoother. Combined with overall performance upgrades, this makes Nothing OS 4.0 more efficient.

Other new features include a refreshed visual interface with redesigned lock screen clocks and Quick Settings panel, a smarter Extra Dark Mode to reduce eye strain, and Pop-up View multitasking that allows quick switching between floating app windows.

What This Update Means for Users

The open beta marks Nothing’s first major Android 16-based firmware push. By integrating AI monitoring tools, enhanced camera presets, and system-level optimisation, the brand is showing its commitment to long-term software support. These features not only improve day-to-day usability but also reflect how AI and creative tools are becoming central to smartphone design.

For users, the update means smoother performance, more creative photography options, and better personalisation. However, Nothing advises users to back up their data before installation, as beta versions may cause heating or increased power consumption initially. Stability is expected to improve after a short adjustment period.

The Nothing OS 4.0 open beta update is a major step forward for the brand, blending AI, design, and performance improvements across its device lineup. With the Phone (3a) rollout set for later this month, more users will soon experience the upgrade.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Which devices get the Nothing OS 4.0 open beta update?

Eligible devices include Nothing Phone (3), Phone (2), Phone (2a), and Phone (2a) Plus. The Phone (3a) series will get it later in October.

Q2: What is the AI Usage Dashboard in Nothing OS 4.0?

It is a tool inside Essential Space that lets users track large AI model activity directly on their device, offering more transparency.

Q3: What is the Stretch Camera preset?

The Stretch preset, developed with photographer Jordan Hemingway, delivers cinematic images with richer shadows and enhanced highlights.

Q4: How does App Optimisation help users?

It manages app startup and background activity to improve performance, reduce lag, and ensure smoother multitasking.

Q5: Should users back up before updating?

Yes, Nothing advises users to back up photos, contacts, and data before installing the open beta update.