Nothing could build its own operating system like Android, hints CEO Carl Pei

Nothing OS

Currently, two mobile operating systems (OS) are powering almost all of the smartphones globally. Building one is difficult, and most phone manufacturers focus their costs on providing the best hardware features. However, Carl Pei, CEO and founder of Nothing, has confirmed that the brand is exploring the idea of creating its mobile operating system to present as a third alternative mobile OS.

At TechCrunch Disrupt 2024 last week, Pei shared details of what a true Nothing OS could be with the host Brian Heater. He added, “We're thinking about how we manoeuvre here, and maybe create something of our own. Some kind of operating system,” he said.” Moreover, the brand aims to reduce its reliance on Google's Android.

Challenges of building a new OS

Previously, Huawei had released Harmony OS, which was a direct rival to Google’s Android OS. However, the Chinese electronics giant struggled tremendously to venture this OS into the global market because of increased geopolitical restrictions on Huwaei products in the American market.

Building a new OS from scratch can be a daunting task. However, Pei believes that the process of building a mobile OS has become significantly easier, thanks to the recent artificial intelligence boom. He suggested that financial rewards while making hardware products can be challenging due to issues like supply chain complexity, high capital expenditure, low margins, and the high risk of achieving product-market fit.

In contrast, the revenue while building and developing a new OS tends to offer higher margins and a more stable environment. However, he emphasised that the primary focus should still be on meeting consumer needs. Nothing previously announced that its Nothing OS 3.0 update, which is based on Android 15 will be coming soon.

We may have to wait for several months until we see a new operating system developed by Nothing.