Nothing has announced its new operating system, Nothing OS 4.0, which demonstrates the importance it places on software as much as hardware. Centered on the company’s human-centric philosophy, this major update stands out with its cleaner design, improved performance, and features that offer users full control, particularly regarding artificial intelligence.
Nothing OS 4, the latest product in Nothing’s mission to create a simple and intuitive experience, promises seamless harmony between hardware and software. The update, which will be available to users soon through an open beta program, aims to reshape the mobile experience.
A new era begins with Nothing OS 4.0
Nothing OS 4.0 offers a more fluid and consistent interface by reducing visual clutter. Redesigned lock screen clocks and a simplified Quick Settings menu are the most notable elements of this approach. The update also introduces Extra Dark Mode, which goes beyond the standard dark mode, using a deeper, more refined black tone to minimize eye strain and increase power efficiency.
Aiming to increase user productivity, the Pop-Up View feature allows two floating app icons to be held on the screen, enabling seamless and quick transitions between tasks. In the background, app optimizations aim to make apps launch faster and run smoother. Nothing states that these tweaks will directly impact overall system speed and responsiveness.
One of Nothing OS 4.0’s most ambitious areas is artificial intelligence. The company places great emphasis on transparency and user control in its AI features. Newly added tools like “Artificial Intelligence (LLM) Status Tips” and “Usage Dashboard” provide users with clear insights into how AI is working on the device and allow them to manage these behaviors.
The photography experience hasn’t been forgotten either. The camera and gallery apps, updated with the new TrueLens Engine technology, make taking and editing photos more fluid. The update also includes many small but significant improvements, including a more responsive Lock Screen and Always-On Display (AOD), more precise brightness controls, and improved Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Beta program to begin soon
Nothing announced the imminent launch of an open beta program for Nothing OS 4.0, which includes a private preview of Android 16. Importantly, the company’s first flagship, the Nothing Phone (1), will not receive this major update. Nothing confirmed that it has fulfilled its three-year software update promise for the device and that security updates will continue until 2026.
