Nothing Phone (1) Ends Updates but Gains Exclusive Upgrade to Phone (3)

The first chapter of Nothing’s smartphone journey is officially closing, as the Nothing Phone (1) has reached the end of its promised software lifecycle. Yet, the story doesn’t conclude here – because the company is turning this “end” into a gateway toward its future flagship, the Nothing Phone (3).

For early adopters who believed in the brand back in 2022, this moment is bittersweet, but it also comes with a unique reward: a tailored upgrade program designed to thank those loyal supporters.

The last major update for Phone (1)

Nothing has confirmed that the Phone (1) will not receive the upcoming Nothing OS 4.0 or Android 16. With this, the device has officially reached the end of its major software update journey. However, the company has honored its original promise: three years of OS updates, along with an extra year of ongoing security patches. That means Phone (1) users will still get critical protection until 2026, even if the big flashy updates are now off the table.

CEO Carl Pei, who has always been active in communicating with fans, described this moment as “bittersweet.” On one hand, it’s the natural progression of technology; on the other, it marks the conclusion of a product that helped establish Nothing’s place in the smartphone market. To soften the impact, Pei immediately revealed a special upgrade program for Phone (1) and Phone (2) owners, ensuring that the transition to newer devices isn’t just affordable but also feels like a thank-you gesture.

The Phone (3) upgrade program explained

Here’s how the upgrade scheme works: existing users of the Phone (1) and Phone (2) can claim an exclusive discount on the latest Phone (3). In the United States, that discount amounts to $300, while in the United Kingdom, the figure is £300. This isn’t a token gesture – it’s a significant price cut that lowers the entry barrier to Nothing’s new generation device.

For those who have already purchased a Phone (3) at full price, Nothing isn’t leaving them out either. Customers in that category can contact the support team and claim a credit toward a future purchase, keeping the goodwill intact. To redeem the upgrade, eligible users will need to verify their device through its IMEI number, after which they’ll receive a discount code. Importantly, this is a time-limited program: the offer expires on October 3rd, 2025, so hesitation might mean missing out on the savings.

Why this matters beyond one phone

This move isn’t just about the Phone (1); it’s about the bigger picture of how Nothing is shaping its product strategy. Back when the first model launched, a three-year update commitment was a solid deal. But the industry has shifted. Tech giants like Google are now offering up to seven years of OS updates on Pixel devices, effectively rewriting the rulebook on longevity. Against that backdrop, Nothing’s decision might seem modest, but in context, it reflects the company’s different priorities as a young and fast-moving brand.

Rather than stretching thin by supporting older devices indefinitely, Nothing is channeling its energy toward its new AI-focused vision. The Phone (3) represents that pivot. With features like the “Essential Key” and integrated AI-native experiences, Nothing is aiming to stand apart in a crowded market. Encouraging long-time users to migrate ensures that more of the community can experience the future the company is trying to build, rather than being left on aging platforms.

A respectful farewell to Phone (1)

There’s always disappointment when a phone reaches the end of its software journey. Users may feel like their device is suddenly “outdated,” even if it still works perfectly fine. But in this case, Nothing has handled the transition with a degree of fairness. They made a promise, delivered on it precisely, and added one more year of security support for good measure. That’s not something all smartphone brands can say.

More importantly, the company is giving back to the earliest supporters. The upgrade program is more than a marketing tactic – it’s a recognition of the community that took a gamble on a newcomer brand. Those who believed in Nothing during its uncertain early days are now being rewarded with an easier path into the future ecosystem.

Yes, longer software support windows are becoming the new industry gold standard, and many would love to see Nothing follow that trend. But considering the size and resources of the company compared to tech giants, this farewell to the Phone (1) feels dignified. It’s not just shutting the door on the past; it’s opening another one toward the brand’s AI-driven ambitions. In that light, Phone (1) users can feel that their journey mattered – and that their next step with Phone (3) might be even more exciting.

Looking ahead

The Phone (1) may no longer be eligible for Android 16 or Nothing OS 4.0, but its legacy is secure. It was the device that proved a startup could disrupt the smartphone industry with bold design and a fresh vision. Now, the torch is passing to the Phone (3), and loyal users are invited along with meaningful discounts and ongoing support. Rather than a harsh end, this is a carefully managed transition – a respectable way to close one era and kick off the next.