Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta: The latest open beta from Nothing is now available for select devices, bringing a host of exciting new features. Designed for Nothing Phone 3, Phone 2, Phone 2a, and Phone 2a Plus, this beta runs on Android 16 and introduces AI-driven tools, smoother animations, camera improvements, and faster app optimization. Users can now explore the company’s innovative Essential Apps, Playground, and enhanced system performance ahead of the public release.
Key Highlights of Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta
The Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta focuses on performance, customization, and AI integration. Here’s what users can expect:
- AI Usage Dashboard: Available on the Nothing Phone 3, this dashboard inside Essential Space shows how AI models are running on your device.
- Improved Lock Screen & Always-On Display: Smooth animations and customizable widgets make the interface more interactive.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi stability improvements ensure seamless connections.
- Camera Optimizations: Fewer glitches and faster capture speeds for smoother photography.
- System-Wide Updates: Larger Quick Settings tiles, sharper icons, and a new extra dark mode reduce eye strain and save battery.
Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta Camera Upgrades
Photography enthusiasts get a treat with the new Stretch preset, developed in collaboration with photographer Jordan Hemingway. Key features include:
- Darker shadows and brighter highlights for dramatic images
- Improved color grading for richer photos
- Enhanced capture quality on Phone 2, Phone 2a, and Phone 2a Plus
- Immediate effect when shooting and sharing photos
These updates allow users to elevate their photography experience directly from the camera app.
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Faster Apps and Multitasking Enhancements
Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta optimizes how apps run, providing smoother performance:
- Faster app startup and reduced lag for background tasks
- New pop-up view supporting two floating app icons
- Swipe gestures to minimize or expand windows for multitasking
- Efficient resource management for improved battery life and responsiveness
These features make daily phone use faster, more efficient, and more enjoyable.
Essential Apps and Playground
A major highlight of the beta is the AI-powered Essential Apps:
- Create custom apps using natural language commands
- Share apps with the community via Playground
- Phone 3 supports up to six widgets, while Phone 2 and Phone 2a series support two
- Continuous updates planned as the system matures
This feature brings a unique level of personalization to Nothing OS, encouraging creativity and collaboration.
How to Join the Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta
Enrolling in the beta is straightforward but requires caution, as it may contain bugs:
- Install the Beta Updates Hub app from Nothing.
- Navigate to Settings > System > Nothing Beta Hub.
- Tap Join Beta and wait for the notification to install.
- Always back up your data before updating.
- Rollback options are available through the Beta Hub if needed.
The beta enrollment window closes on October 14, 2025, so interested users should act quickly.
Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta: Eligible Devices
Currently, the update is available for:
- Nothing Phone 3
- Nothing Phone 2
- Nothing Phone 2a
- Nothing Phone 2a Plus
Phone 3a and 3a Pro will receive the update later in October. Older and CMF-branded devices are not included yet.
Final Thought
Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta brings an exciting mix of AI tools, camera enhancements, and faster app performance. The update improves system stability, offers creative photography options, and introduces highly customizable widgets. It also emphasizes user participation through Playground and Essential Apps, enabling a more interactive experience. While it is still a beta and may contain minor bugs, tech enthusiasts can enjoy a sneak peek of the future of Nothing OS. With Android 16 at its core, the update promises a smoother and smarter smartphone experience.
