Nothing has officially kicked off the Nothing OS 4.0 open beta program for the Nothing Phone 3a and 3a Pro, offering users an early opportunity to experience the latest Android 16-based enhancements. The update introduces a refreshed interface, refined features, and performance improvements tailored for the Phone 3a series.
With the Nothing OS 4.0 open beta, users can explore new functionalities like advanced multitasking, updated lock-screen designs, enhanced AI tools, and additional customization options. Those willing to test beta software can get a firsthand look at the future of Nothing’s software ecosystem before the stable release is rolled out.
What’s New: Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta for Phone 3a Series
The Nothing OS 4.0 open beta rollout is based on Android 16, aligning the Phone 3a series with the latest ecosystem advancements. These updates deliver a more refined UI, improved performance, and enhanced feature sets tailored for mid-range flagship devices.
Users of the Phone 3a and Phone 3a Pro who are on the requisite firmware build (Asteroids-V3.2-251013-1406 or newer) are eligible to enrol in the open beta. Numerous users have already reported receiving the OTA unlocked for the beta.
How to Join Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta Program
- Ensure your Phone 3a or Phone 3a Pro is updated to the latest stable build.
- Install the Beta Updates Hub APK provided by Nothing.
- Navigate to Settings → System → Nothing Beta Hub and tap Join Beta.
- Once registration is successful, tap Go to Update (or manually check under System Updates) to download the Nothing OS 4.0 open beta.
Tip: Back up your data (photos, contacts, logs) before enrolling — beta software can be less stable.
Key Features in the Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta
The Nothing OS 4.0 open beta brings several enhancements, including:
- Upgraded to Android 16, delivering the latest system optimisations.
- Pop-up View with support for two floating icons, improving multitasking ease.
- Two new lock-screen clock faces and a revamped minimalist icon design.
- Quick Settings tile support extended to 2×2 size for most tiles.
- Extra Dark Mode, providing deeper dark visuals for more immersive experience.
- AI Usage Dashboard in “Essential Space” that monitors large-model usage, enhancing transparency around intelligent features.
- Preset Camera mode “Stretch”, created in collaboration with photographer Jordan Hemingway, to deliver richer shadows and extended highlights.
- “Essential Apps” creation and “Playground” community-sharing features for widgets, camera presets and EQ profiles.
These updates show a strong emphasis on both visual aesthetics and intelligent functionality — aligning with the Nothing brand’s philosophy of minimalism plus utility.
Who Should Join — and Who Should Wait
If you own a Phone 3a or Phone 3a Pro and want early access to the newest features, joining the Nothing OS 4.0 open beta is a solid choice. However, as with any beta program, there may still be bugs or stability issues.
If you rely on your phone for critical day-to-day tasks and cannot tolerate occasional hiccups, it might be safer to wait for the full stable release.
Final Thoughts
The Nothing OS 4.0 open beta for the Phone 3a series is a compelling opportunity to experience cutting-edge features ahead of wider rollout. Backing up your data and enrolling properly will help ensure a smoother experience. With its mix of design refinement, AI integrations and system enhancements, this update underscores Nothing’s commitment to evolving its platform.
For those ready to explore the latest build and don’t mind running beta software, now is the time to join the Nothing OS 4.0 open beta on the Phone 3a or Phone 3a Pro.
