Nothing is rolling out its highly anticipated Nothing OS 4.0 update, based on Android 16, beginning today with the Phone (3). The update introduces a suite of new features-including AI-powered tools adn enhanced customization options-that build upon the brand’s signature minimalist design. The rollout, wich will extend too other Nothing and CMF devices in the coming weeks, underscores the company’s commitment to delivering a unique and evolving user experience.
Nothing OS 4.0, based on Android 16, arrives today for the Phone (3), bringing AI features and Live Updates that turn the Glyph lights into real-time notifications
Nothing has launched Nothing OS 4.0, built on Android 16, which is rolling out to the Phone (3) today and will gradually expand to the rest of the company’s product lineup. The update delivers significant changes to the British brand’s interface, incorporating artificial intelligence features and customization tools that go beyond typical software updates.
Nothing confirmed that Nothing OS 4.0 is available now for the Nothing Phone (3), with other Nothing and CMF devices receiving the update in the coming weeks. Based on Android 16, this version includes changes impacting both daily use and visual appearance, continuing the minimalist design language characteristic of the company founded by Carl Pei.
The Lights Finally Have a Purpose
A standout feature is the introduction of Live Updates via the Glyph Interface, which connects notifications, the lock screen, and LED lights to display real-time information – such as route guidance, delivery updates, and timer progress – without opening any apps. This transforms the rear lights from a purely aesthetic element into a genuinely useful tool.
The Extra Dark Mode introduces deeper blacks with increased contrast, reducing battery consumption by up to 15% according to Nothing. It’s available system-wide and will extend to more first-party applications. Animations have also been refined, with smoother transitions, haptic feedback for volume controls, and increased elasticity in notification interactions.
Specifically for the Phone (3), Nothing OS 4.0 includes revamped Flip to Glyph controls, an improved Pocket Mode, and Glyph Toys with options like Hourglass and Lunar Cycle. It also introduces Glyph Mirror Selfie, which saves the original image alongside the mirrored effect, leveraging the unique hardware capabilities of Nothing’s latest devices.
Nothing OS 4.0 debuts Nothing Playground and Widget Drawer, allowing users to create Essential Apps powered by AI simply by describing their desired functionality and organizing them within the Widget Drawer. This functionality aligns with Carl Pei’s vision for the future evolution of mobile applications.
The rollout of Nothing OS 4.0 with Android 16 fulfills the update schedule the company previously announced for its newer devices. On paper, the new AI features appear promising, though the actual user experience will depend on how seamlessly these capabilities integrate into daily use. The update underscores the growing trend of integrating AI directly into smartphone operating systems.
