Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta: The Next Step for Nothing Phones
Nothing has officially launched the Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta, a major Android 16 update designed to enhance performance, refine design, and bring smarter AI features to supported Nothing phones. This update marks a key milestone in Nothing’s evolution, delivering both innovation and stability.
Supported Devices for Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta
The update is now available on:
- Nothing Phone (3) – full feature set
- Nothing Phone (2)
- Nothing Phone (2a)
- Nothing Phone (2a) Plus
Note: The Nothing Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro will get the update in October 2025 with some exclusive features.
How to Install Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta
To join the beta program, follow these steps:
- Update your device to the latest version.
- Download the Beta Updates Hub APK from the Nothing Community.
- Install it from your Downloads folder.
- Go to Settings > System > Nothing Beta Hub.
- Tap Join Beta and enroll.
- Select Go to Update to install the beta.
Enrollment is open until October 14, 2025.
Key Features of Nothing OS 4.0
Exclusive Features for Nothing Phone (3)
- AI Usage Dashboard in Essential Space.
- Up to 6 Essential App widgets (other models get 2).
- Smoother lock screen and Always-on Display.
Features for Nothing Phone (2) Series
- “Stretch” Camera Preset by Jordan Hemingway.
- App Optimization Tool for faster launches.
Universal Features Across All Devices
- Pop-up View with floating icons for quick app switching.
- Two new lock screen clock faces.
- 2×2 Quick Settings tiles.
- Extra Dark Mode toggle.
- Nothing Playground for AI-powered widgets.
- AI-assisted widget customization.
- Full AI transparency tools for better control.
Performance and System Stability
Nothing OS 4.0 improves the daily user experience with:
- Enhanced camera stability across apps.
- Better Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Smarter brightness adjustments.
- General system-wide optimizations.
Plus, the new TrueLens Engine enhances photos, videos, and the gallery app with creative presets and more intuitive controls.
Release Timeline for Nothing OS 4.0
- Closed Beta: Early September 2025 (Phone 3)
- Open Beta: September 29, 2025
- Phone (3a) Beta: October 2025
Stable release: Scheduled between late September and November 2025, with the Nothing Phone (3) first in line.
User Reactions to Nothing OS 4.0
Early adopters report that the update feels faster, smoother, and more refined. Animations are more fluid, and the minimalist design now includes modern personalization features.
The AI Dashboard has been especially praised for giving users transparency and control, while the Essential Apps widget system is seen as a groundbreaking feature for customization.
Photography Upgrades in Nothing OS 4.0
- New Stretch Camera Preset for dramatic, high-contrast shots.
- More precise manual exposure controls.
- Better performance in third-party apps.
- Improved video sharpness and color accuracy.
What This Update Means for Nothing Users
Nothing OS 4.0 isn’t just a software upgrade—it’s a bold move toward AI-driven customization, design refinement, and long-term performance improvements.
The stable release by end of 2025 will continue Nothing’s push for clean design and meaningful innovation. While the Nothing Phone (1) won’t get Android 16, Nothing has hinted at a special support program for its earliest users.
Bottom Line: The Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta is your chance to try Android 16’s latest features early. With AI-powered tools, camera enhancements, and a polished design, this update sets the stage for Nothing’s strongest software yet.