The latest Android 16 update, branded as Nothing OS 4.0, has been released for the Nothing Phone (3a) and (3a) Pro. This update introduces various enhanced features aimed at improving user experience and privacy. Users can expect significant changes and new functionalities, as outlined by the company on its forums.
Key Features of Nothing OS 4.0
- AI Usage Dashboard: Tracks AI model usage for enhanced privacy. Accessible via Settings > Intelligence toolkit > AI usage.
- App Management: Users can now hide apps directly from both the home screen and app drawer.
- Improved Widget Options: New size options added for Weather, Pedometer, and Screen Time widgets.
- Pop-up View Enhancements: Supports two floating icons for easier app switching.
- System Upgrade: App optimization enhances startup speed, found under Settings > Apps > App optimisation.
Essential Innovations
- Flip to Record: Allows photo capture and note-taking during recordings.
- Playground (Alpha): A new feature for community-driven Essential Apps, camera presets, and EQ profiles.
Visual and Interface Enhancements
- Redesigned app icons for a fresh appearance.
- New status bar icons and lock screen clock faces.
- Extra dark mode for a more immersive experience, accessible via Settings > Display > Dark theme > Extra dark mode.
- Smoother transitions in certain scenarios for fluid navigation.
Camera Enhancements
- Updated presets and new filters, including intensity adjustments.
- Longer motion photo recording times with audio capture.
- New Nothing brand watermarks and artistic frames introduced.
- Refreshed camera interface for better interaction.
The rollout began on November 28 and is expected to reach all users shortly. With these updates, Nothing continues to enhance the user experience on its mobile devices while prioritizing privacy and customization options.
