Big news for Nothing Phone users! If you're rocking a Nothing Phone (3a) or (3a) Pro, get ready for a significant upgrade because the Android 16-based Nothing OS 4.0 stable update is rolling out! This update, already available for the Nothing Phone (3) last week, brings a host of exciting new features and enhancements. Let's dive into what you can expect.
What's New in Nothing OS 4.0?
This update is packed with improvements. Here's a breakdown:
New Features:
- AI Usage Dashboard: Keep tabs on your AI large model usage for enhanced privacy. You can find this in Settings > Intelligence toolkit > AI usage. A great step towards transparency, right?
- App Hiding: Now you can hide apps directly from your home screen and app drawer. Find them again via Home screen > App drawer > Hidden icons. A welcome feature for those who like a clean look.
- Search Scope Management: Refine your app drawer searches for more precise results.
- Widget Size Options: Enjoy more size options for your Weather, Pedometer, and Screen Time widgets. Customization is key!
- QuickSettings Tiles: Most QuickSettings tiles now support a 2x2 size. More control at your fingertips.
- Pop-up View: Two floating icons are now supported in pop-up view, making switching between apps easier.
- App Optimization: System upgrades now include app optimization to improve startup speed. Find this in Settings > Apps > App optimization.
Essential Innovations:
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- Playground (Alpha): Explore unique creations from the community, including Essential Apps, Camera Presets, and EQ Profiles. A chance to get creative and try new things!
- Essential Apps (Alpha): Download AI-powered, community-crafted apps that blend creativity with efficiency.
Visual Enhancements:
- Redesigned App Icons: Nothing app icons have a fresh, new look.
- Updated Status Bar Icons: Improved clarity and a more intuitive look.
- Lock Screen Clock Faces: Two new clock faces are available in Customization.
- Extra Dark Mode: Experience a more immersive dark style via Settings > Display > Dark theme > Extra dark mode.
- Transition Animations: Smoother and more fluid animations.
Glyph Interface:
- Silent/Vibrate Mode: Choose whether Flip to Glyph switches your phone to Silent or Vibrate mode.
- Glyph Progress: Uses Android 16 Live Update notifications for better compatibility with third-party apps.
Camera Enhancements:
- Presets: Updated default list with new popular styles.
- Filters: Added intensity adjustment and exclusive ‘Stretch’ styles.
- Motion Photos: Supports longer recording times and audio capture.
- Watermarks: New Nothing brand watermarks and artistic frames.
- Interface: Refreshed camera UI design with optimized interactions.
But here's where it gets controversial... The rollout is starting small, with a limited number of users for the Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro. If all goes well, a broader release will follow. This phased approach allows Nothing to iron out any potential issues before a wider audience gets the update.
Pricing and Availability
Here's a quick look at some offers from our affiliate partners for the Nothing Phone (3a) and (3a) Pro:
Nothing Phone (3a) Pro:
- 256GB 12GB RAM: €380.48
Nothing Phone (3a):
- 128GB 8GB RAM: $340.00, €249.00
- 256GB 12GB RAM: $399.00, €251.23
And this is the part most people miss... Remember to update Essential Space to the latest version to fully enjoy the improved Flip to Record feature. Also, it's always wise to back up your data before installing the Nothing OS 4.0 update. This ensures you don't lose any important information during the process.
What do you think? Are you excited about these new features? Which one are you most looking forward to trying out? Do you think the phased rollout is a good approach? Share your thoughts in the comments below! We'd love to hear from you.
