Nothing OS 4.0: A new journey for Nothing phones with Android 16 – as smooth as flow.
2025I always say that smartphone updates are not just software changes, they create a new relationship with our daily lives. Imagine your phone ‘flowing’ with you – seamlessly, seamlessly. That’s exactly what’s happening with Nothing. The rollout of Nothing OS 4.0, which is based on Android 16, began yesterday, November 21. It’s not just an update, but a big leap in Nothing’s AI-centric vision. I myself participated in beta testing as a Nothing Phone 3 user, and now that I have the stable version in my hands, it feels like the phone has truly become a part of my life. Let’s dive deeper into this update.
Why is Nothing OS 4.0 so special? The Magic Mix of Android 16
Nothing OS has always been different from the others – that transparent design, the fun of Glyph lights, and the simplicity. But the combination of Android 16 with Nothing OS 4.0 has taken it to new heights. Taking advantage of Google's Android 16's live updates, smarter notifications, and desktop-style multitasking, Nothing has added its own twist. The theme is 'Flow' – as if the phone adapts to your movements. In my experience, in the previous version, the animations sometimes felt a little jerky, but now? Every touch, swipe – everything has a natural flow. It's not just visuals, there's also AI behind it. Nothing founder Carl Pei says that this update is the core of their AI strategy – where the phone is not just a tool, but a smart companion.
New features that will blow your mind
The list of features in Nothing OS 4.0 is long, but I'm highlighting the most unique and useful ones. They are not just technical, but also make everyday life easier.
Extra Dark Mode: Night friend
Eye strain during late night scrolling? This mode is truly a game-changer. It is darker than the standard dark mode, which saves battery and gives your eyes a rest. I tried it last night during a long reading session – there was no strain on my eyes, and the battery drain was also low. The AI here auto-adjusts in conjunction with the light sensor.
Pop-Up View: A New Dimension of Multitasking
Inspired by Android 16’s desktop mode, this floating window feature makes it easy to run two apps simultaneously. For example, I can watch a YouTube video while chatting on WhatsApp – no need to go to the recent apps menu. It works especially well on the Nothing Phone 3’s larger screen.
Glyph Progress with Live Updates: A New Style of Notifications
Nothing’s signature Glyph lights are now even smarter. Integrating with Android 16’s Live Updates, they show ride-sharing progress, delivery tracking, or timers – without the lock screen. The Phone 3’s back display shows a slider, while the lights count down on older models. I tried it out on my Uber ride – I could see how far away the driver was without having to open my phone. It’s fun!
Refreshed Lock Screen and Quick Settings
Two new lock screen styles and a 2x2 quick settings tile – these take customization to the next level. And photography is even more fun with new presets and redesigned controls in the camera app. The AI Dashboard is a standout – it shows how much of each AI feature is being used, making it easier to control privacy.
In addition, the Essential Apps feature is community-driven – with Nothing Playground, you can create custom widgets by describing AI. It’s a great example of Nothing’s open approach.
Which phones will get the update? Rollout details
Fans are grateful for Nothing’s update promise. The rollout has started with Nothing Phone (3), and will expand in the coming days. The list on day one includes:
| Device Model | Update Status | Final Update? |
|---|---|---|
| Nothing Phone (3) | Available now (OTA) | No, until Android 18 |
| Nothing Phone (3a) / (3a) Pro | Coming soon | No, until Android 18 |
| Nothing Phone (2) / (2a) / (2a) Plus | This week | Final for Phone (2) |
| CMF Phone 2 Pro | Late 2025 | No |
| Nothing Phone (3a) Lite | Early 2026 | No |
Phone (1) and CMF Phone 1
Sadly, this is the last major update. But Nothing's six-year update promise gives me hope.
If you haven't received your phone yet, check Settings > System > System Update. The rollout is gradual, so be patient.
My Thoughts: Why it's perfect for Nothing
Nothing OS 4.0 reminds me why I'm a fan of this brand - they don't just make hardware, they build an ecosystem that's fun, user-centric. Taking the power of Android 16 and adding their Glyph and AI twists, it stands out from other skins (like One UI or MIUI). However, one small complaint: the camera app was a bit laggy in the beta, hopefully it will be fixed in the stable.
If you are a Nothing Phone owner, don't miss this update. And for non-users? Check it out when you have time – it brings the phone back to life.
What is your experience? Share in the comments!
