NothingOS 4.0 Update Now Available for Phone 3a and 3a Pro

London-based technology company Nothing Inc. has commenced the rollout of NothingOS 4.0, an update based on Android 16, for its Phone 3a and Phone 3a Pro models. This update is set to enhance the user experience significantly with a variety of new features and improvements.

Enhanced User Interface

The NothingOS 4.0 update introduces several elements from Android 16, including the Material 3-Expressive User Interface. This upgrade aims to provide smoother transitions and more dynamic animations when launching or switching between applications. Users can expect a more visually appealing interface that enhances usability.

New Features and Improvements

Among the notable additions is the 'Extra Dark Mode', which is designed to conserve battery power while reducing eye strain in low-light environments. Furthermore, the update enhances widget flexibility, allowing for more size options for components such as Weather, Pedometer, and Screen Time.

Users will also find a variety of new lock screen themes, improved Always-on Display (AOD) settings, and enhanced connectivity across Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. The update aims to improve the overall stability of the devices.

Multitasking Capabilities

The new Pop-up View feature supports dual pop-up windows, allowing users to operate two applications simultaneously on the same screen. Users can easily manage these windows by swiping up to minimise or pulling down to expand them to full screen.

Camera Enhancements

NothingOS 4.0 also introduces a refreshed camera interface along with new photography styles and filters that include adjustable intensity. The Motion Photos feature now supports longer recording times and audio capture, and the native camera application has been redesigned for better interaction.

Privacy and Security Updates

In terms of privacy, the update focuses on user security by ensuring that all Artificial Intelligence-powered applications operate with greater transparency. Users will have control over permissions related to sensitive data. An AI Usage Dashboard will provide insights into usage trends, allowing users to monitor activity over daily and weekly periods.

Device Protection Features

The update also introduces enhanced mobile device protection features designed to safeguard users from online threats, including malicious applications and scam calls. If a device is reported stolen, it becomes inoperable, providing an additional layer of security.

How to Install the Update

To install the NothingOS 4.0 update on the Phone 3a or Phone 3a Pro, users need to follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to System and select System Update.
3. The device will check for available updates.
4. If the update is available, select 'Download and Install' and follow the prompts.
5. Restart the device to complete the installation.

Current Rollout Status

The rollout of NothingOS 4.0 is currently limited to a select group of users with a broader release expected following initial testing. Users are advised to back up their data prior to installation.

Eligible Devices

In addition to the Phone 3a and Phone 3a Pro, Nothing Inc. has also rolled out NothingOS 4.0 to the Phone 3 model and plans to extend the update to older models including Phone 2, 2a, 2a Plus, CMF Phone 2 Pro, and CMF Phone 1 in the future.