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Highlights
- Nothing OS 4.0, based on Android 16, will begin rolling out later this autumn (Q3 2025), starting with the Nothing Phone (3).
- Nothing OS 4.0 is expected to bring AI-powered tools, a more polished UI and support for the Glyph Matrix API for interactive rear LED features.
- The Nothing Phone (3) pre-orders began on July 4 with sales from July 15.
Nothing has just introduced its first true flagship, the Nothing Phone (3). And while it promises five years of OS updates and seven years of security patches, it doesn’t ship with the latest Android version. The phone launches with Nothing OS 3.5 based on Android 15, even though Android 16 has already been released by Google.
But there’s good news for those waiting on the update. During the launch event, Nothing CEO Carl Pei confirmed that Nothing OS 4.0 based on Android 16 is set to arrive “later this autumn.” Here’s what we know so far.
Nothing OS 4.0 – Nothing Phone (3) To Get It First
The Phone (3) will be the first to receive the new software, most likely within the next couple of months. After that, the update should roll out to older models like the Phone (2) and Phone (1). Going by last year’s update pattern, Nothing rolled out Android 15 to all supported phones within a few weeks, so the wait shouldn’t be too long.
This marks one of Nothing’s fastest OS rollouts to date, a big leap from the Android 15 update, which came much later.
Nothing OS 4.0 – What to Expect?
Nothing OS 3.5 is already sleek and responsive, but OS 4.0 is expected to take things further. It will likely include AI-powered features, more polished UI, and support for the Glyph Matrix API. This could let developers create mini-games, tools, or widgets for the Phone (3)’s signature rear LED display.
Android 16 itself brings performance improvements, stronger security, and better background app management. Nothing OS 4.0 will build on that with the brand’s minimalist look and quirky user experience.
Phone (3) Launch Details
The Nothing Phone (3) is available for pre-order from July 4, with sales starting July 15. It features a Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chipset, a 6.67-inch 120Hz OLED display, four 50MP cameras, and a 5,150mAh battery. The battery specs, however, has been boosted to 5,500mAh in India.
FAQs
Q1. When will Nothing OS 4.0 based on Android 16 be released?
Answer. Nothing OS 4.0, based on Android 16, is set to arrive “later this autumn”, with a rollout expected between September and November 2025.
Q2. Which device will receive Nothing OS 4.0 first?
Answer. The Nothing Phone (3) will be the first handset from the company to receive the Android 16-based update.
Q3. What version of Android does the Nothing Phone (3) ship with?
Answer. Despite Android 16 being released, the Nothing Phone (3) boots Nothing OS 3.5, which is based on Android 15.
Also Read: Nothing Headphone 1 launches with 80-hour battery and KEF-tuned audio