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Nothing OS 4.0 New Features & Release Date Guide
Complete Nothing OS 4.0 Feature Guide
Nothing OS 4.0 represents the most significant update to Nothing’s Android-based operating system. Built on Android 16, this update introduces advanced AI integration, enhanced multitasking capabilities, and a refined user interface. This comprehensive guide covers all new features, installation methods, and device compatibility information.
Nothing OS 4.0 Release Date & Device Compatibility
We have all the details about Nothing OS 4.0 Device Compatibility right here on our site. We have covered everything you need to know.
Open Beta Availability
Nothing OS 4.0 entered open beta on September 30, 2025, with stable release expected in November 2025. The update is currently available for:
- Nothing Phone (3) – Full feature set including AI Dashboard
- Nothing Phone (2) – Complete feature set with Stretch camera preset
- Nothing Phone (2a) – Core features with limited AI widget support
- Nothing Phone (2a Plus) – Same as Phone (2a) with enhanced performance
Upcoming Device Support
The Nothing Phone (3a) and Nothing Phone (3a Pro) will receive Nothing OS 4.0 in October 2025. Nothing has confirmed these devices will support core features but may have limited AI functionality due to hardware constraints.
How to Install Nothing OS 4.0 Beta
- Download Nothing Beta Hub: Install the official APK from Nothing’s community portal
- Register for Beta: Navigate to Settings > System > Nothing Beta Hub
- Join Beta Program: Select “Join Beta” and agree to terms
- Download Update: Tap “Go to Update” to begin installation
- Installation Process: Allow 45-60 minutes for complete installation
Important: Beta software may contain bugs. Create a full device backup before installation.
Nothing OS 4.0 New Features: Complete Overview
Enhanced User Interface & Design
Extra Dark Mode
Nothing OS 4.0 introduces Extra Dark Mode, featuring true black backgrounds optimized for OLED displays. This advanced dark theme:
- Reduces eye strain during extended use
- Improves battery life by up to 15% on OLED screens
- Enhances visual contrast for better readability
- Optimizes night-time usage with deeper blacks
How to Enable: Settings > Display > Dark Theme > Extra Dark Mode
Redesigned Quick Settings
The Quick Settings panel receives a complete overhaul with:
- 2×2 tile layout support for better organization
- Wider tile formats for improved accessibility
- Cleaner visual hierarchy with reduced clutter
- Customizable tile arrangement for personalized access
New Lock Screen Options
Nothing OS 4.0 adds two new clock face designs with enhanced customization:
- Minimal analog clock with customizable colors
- Digital time display with weather integration
- Always-On Display improvements with better responsiveness
- Personalization options for wallpapers and widgets
Revolutionary Multitasking: Pop-up View
Dual Floating App Support
Pop-up View enables two simultaneous floating applications, revolutionizing multitasking efficiency:
- Resize and position apps anywhere on screen
- Quick app switching without losing context
- Minimize to floating icons with swipe gestures
- Expand to fullscreen with pull-down motion
Practical Use Cases
- Productivity: Calendar + messaging apps simultaneously
- Content Creation: Notes + web browser for research
- Entertainment: Video + social media browsing
- Work: Email + document editing
Advanced Camera System: TrueLens Engine
Enhanced Photography Experience
The TrueLens Engine powers both Camera and Gallery applications with:
- Improved image processing algorithms
- Enhanced creative presets for professional-quality photos
- Better low-light performance with advanced noise reduction
- Faster camera startup and shot-to-shot times
Stretch Camera Preset by Jordan Hemingway
Developed in collaboration with fashion photographer Jordan Hemingway, the Stretch preset offers:
- Cinematic depth with extended dynamic range
- Enhanced shadows and highlights for dramatic effect
- Professional-grade color grading built-in
- Film-inspired aesthetic without post-processing
Available on: Nothing Phone (2), Phone (2a), Phone (2a Plus)
AI Integration & Transparency Features
AI Usage Dashboard (Phone 3 Exclusive)
The AI Usage Dashboard provides unprecedented transparency into AI activity:
- Real-time AI model tracking (GPT-4, Whisper, Flash)
- Daily and weekly usage statistics with detailed breakdowns
- Privacy controls for AI feature management
- Resource usage monitoring to optimize performance
Access: Settings > Essential Space > AI Usage Dashboard
Essential Apps & Playground
Revolutionary AI-powered widget creation system allowing users to:
- Describe functionality in natural language
- Generate custom widgets without coding
- Share creations through Playground community
- Install user-generated apps from the ecosystem
Widget Limits:
- Phone (3): Up to 6 widgets
- Other models: Up to 2 widgets (beta limitation)
Essential Apps Examples
- Expense Tracker: Scans receipts and generates spending reports
- Mood Journal: Links emotions to music preferences
- Outfit Planner: Suggests clothing based on weather and schedule
- Fitness Reminder: Creates workout schedules from calendar data
System Performance Optimizations
App Optimization Controls
Nothing OS 4.0 introduces system-level App Optimization features:
- Background app management for better battery life
- Startup time reduction through intelligent preloading
- Memory allocation optimization for smoother multitasking
- User-controlled app behavior settings
Access: Settings > Apps > App Optimization
Network & Connectivity Improvements
Enhanced connectivity features include:
- Stronger Wi-Fi performance with improved signal stability
- Enhanced Bluetooth compatibility with wider device support
- Faster connection establishment for all wireless protocols
- Better roaming performance for international users
System Stability Enhancements
Core system improvements deliver:
- Faster lock screen responsiveness (30% improvement)
- More reliable Always-On Display with better power management
- Enhanced camera stability with reduced crash rates
- Improved overall system reliability with bug fixes
Nothing OS 4.0 vs Nothing OS 3.0: Key Differences
| Feature | Nothing OS 3.0 | Nothing OS 4.0 |
| Android Version | Android 14 | Android 16 |
| Multitasking | Standard Android | Pop-up View with dual apps |
| Dark Mode | Standard dark theme | Extra Dark Mode with true blacks |
| AI Integration | Basic AI features | Advanced AI Dashboard + Essential Apps |
| Camera System | Standard processing | TrueLens Engine with creative presets |
| Performance | Good optimization | Enhanced with App Optimization controls |
| Quick Settings | Standard layout | 2×2 tile support with redesign |
Installation Troubleshooting & Tips
Common Installation Issues
- Insufficient Storage: Ensure 8GB+ free space before installation
- Battery Level: Maintain 50%+ battery during update process
- Network Connection: Use stable Wi-Fi for 2GB+ download
- App Compatibility: Some apps may need updates post-installation
Performance Optimization Tips
- Restart device after installation completion
- Clear app caches for better performance
- Reconfigure widgets and home screen layouts
- Update all apps to latest versions
- Review permissions for new AI features
Rollback Options
Users experiencing issues can:
- Exit beta program through Nothing Beta Hub
- Factory reset to previous Nothing OS version
- Contact support through Nothing community forums
- Report bugs for faster resolution
Device-Specific Feature Availability
Nothing Phone (3) Features
- ✅ AI Usage Dashboard (exclusive)
- ✅ Up to 6 Essential App widgets
- ✅ Full TrueLens Engine capabilities
- ✅ Complete Pop-up View functionality
- ✅ All system optimizations
Nothing Phone (2) Features
- ✅ Stretch Camera Preset (exclusive with 2a series)
- ✅ Up to 2 Essential App widgets
- ✅ Full TrueLens Engine support
- ✅ Complete multitasking features
- ❌ AI Usage Dashboard
Nothing Phone (2a/2a Plus) Features
- ✅ Stretch Camera Preset
- ✅ Limited Essential Apps (2 widgets)
- ✅ Core TrueLens Engine features
- ✅ Pop-up View support
- ❌ AI Usage Dashboard
- ⚠️ Some performance limitations
Android 16 Foundation Benefits
Nothing OS 4.0’s Android 16 foundation provides:
- Enhanced security with latest Google Play Protect
- Better resource management for improved battery life
- Advanced privacy controls with granular permissions
- Improved app compatibility with latest Android features
- Future-proofing for upcoming Android developments
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Nothing OS 4.0 stable release arrive?
The stable release is expected in November 2025 for all supported devices, following the completion of beta testing phases.
Can I install Nothing OS 4.0 on older Nothing phones?
Currently, Nothing OS 4.0 supports Nothing Phone (2) and newer models. Older devices may receive limited feature updates but not the full Android 16 experience.
Will Essential Apps work on all devices?
Essential Apps functionality varies by device. Phone (3) supports up to 6 widgets, while other models are limited to 2 widgets during the beta period.
How much storage does Nothing OS 4.0 require?
The update requires approximately 6-8GB of free storage space, including temporary files needed during installation.
Is Nothing OS 4.0 beta stable for daily use?
While generally stable, beta software may contain bugs. Users should backup data and be prepared for potential issues during the testing period.
User Experience & Real-World Testing
After extensive testing across multiple devices, Nothing OS 4.0 delivers significant improvements in daily usability:
Standout Features for Daily Use
- Extra Dark Mode reduces eye fatigue during extended sessions
- Pop-up View enhances productivity for multitasking users
- Essential Apps provides creative customization options
- TrueLens Engine improves photo quality without manual editing
Areas for Improvement
- AI widget limitations on non-flagship devices
- Learning curve for new multitasking gestures
- Battery optimization still being refined in beta
- App compatibility issues with some third-party applications
Conclusion: Nothing OS 4.0 Sets New Standards
Nothing OS 4.0 represents a significant evolution in Android customization, combining Nothing’s minimalist design philosophy with advanced AI capabilities and enhanced user functionality. The update successfully balances innovation with usability, making it a compelling upgrade for existing Nothing device owners.
The Android 16 foundation ensures future compatibility while current features like Pop-up View, Essential Apps, and Extra Dark Mode provide immediate value. Device-specific features ensure optimal performance across Nothing’s product lineup.
For Nothing Phone users, the open beta provides an excellent opportunity to experience these improvements ahead of the stable release. The installation process is straightforward, and the feature set justifies the update for most use cases.
Ready to update? Join the Nothing OS 4.0 beta program through the Nothing Beta Hub and experience the future of Nothing’s mobile operating system today.
Last updated: October 2025 | Source: Official Nothing community announcements and extensive device testing
