Nothing, the innovative tech brand led by Carl Pei, has officially announced the Closed Beta rollout of its latest firmware update — Nothing OS 4.0, based on Android 16. This exclusive beta program is designed for users of the upcoming Nothing Phone (3), giving them early access to try out new features while contributing vital feedback before the final release.

Key Highlights

Nothing OS 4.0 is based on Android 16

First Closed Beta now available for Nothing Phone (3)

Open Beta expected in September

Includes native Android 16 features and Nothing’s new UI design system

Application open via community sign-up form

Nothing OS 4.0 Closed Beta Overview

According to the company’s announcement via its official community forum, the Closed Beta program is a gesture of appreciation to its most loyal users. It allows a limited group of Nothing Phone (3) owners to test the new firmware, report bugs, and provide feedback on the performance, user interface, and stability.

While specific features exclusive to Nothing OS 4.0 are yet to be detailed, the beta will integrate Android 16’s standard offerings, including:

Forced Notification Auto-Grouping

Live Updates for Enhanced Real-Time Functionality

Advanced Protection Features

Improved Desktop Windowing Support

Additionally, the OS 4.0 update introduces a more unified and visually consistent design system that is expected to extend across future software iterations.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Closed Beta program, users must meet the following conditions:

Must own and use the Nothing Phone (3) as a primary device

Should be active participants in the Nothing community

Willingness to provide regular feedback and reports

Accept the possibility of bugs and unstable features in the beta version

Must commit to testing between August and early September

How to Apply

Interested users can apply for the Closed Beta by completing the sign-up form made available by Nothing. The application requires:

@nothing-tech.sg.larksuite

Full name and email address

nothing.community username

Consent to log collection and feedback sharing for improvement

Selected participants will be notified by email, and will receive instructions on how to download and install the beta firmware on their devices.

Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta Timeline

Following the Closed Beta testing phase, Nothing has confirmed that the Open Beta of OS 4.0 will roll out in September. This broader beta release will allow a larger group of users to try the updated OS ahead of its final launch.

Conclusion

The introduction of Android 16-based Nothing OS 4.0 is a significant step for Nothing’s software ecosystem, promising deeper integration with Google’s latest features while staying true to the company’s design-first philosophy. With early feedback from real users, Nothing aims to deliver a polished, unified, and powerful OS when the final version becomes widely available.