Android 16-based Nothing OS 4.0 brings new features to Phone 2, Phone 3 and 2a series

Nothing Phone (3)

Nothing has confirmed that its long-awaited Android 16-based update, Nothing OS 4.0, will begin rolling out on 21 November. After weeks of open beta testing, the company announced that the stable release is now ready, thanking early testers for their feedback. A short post on X set the tone: “Let your phone bring flow to your life.”

Although a final compatibility list has not been published, the beta programme points to the first wave of devices. These include the Nothing Phone 2, Phone 3, Phone 2a, Phone 2a Plus, Phone 3a and Phone 3a Pro. More models, such as the upcoming Phone 3a Lite and devices under the CMF sub-brand, are expected to follow.

Nothing OS 4.0 introduces a wide set of changes. Extra Dark Mode aims to make late-night use easier on the eyes, while Pop-Up View brings floating windows for faster multitasking. Users also get a larger 2×2 Quick Settings tile and two fresh lock screen styles. The Playground portal now lets creators share custom widgets across devices.

Cameras see notable improvements too. The Phone 2 series gets the Stretch mode previously exclusive to the Phone 3, offering wider and sharper photos, while the Lock Glimpse widget on the lock screen provides curated content and timely alerts. On the Phone 3a line, this remains disabled by default to protect privacy.

The update will roll out gradually as an OTA from 21 November. With new AI tools, deeper customisation and a cleaner interface, Nothing OS 4.0 is shaping up to be the company’s most substantial software upgrade yet.