Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta Brings Android 16 to Select Devices

Nothing has officially kicked off the Open Beta for Nothing OS 4.0, its latest software skin built on top of Android 16.

Announced earlier this month and based on Google’s June release of Android 16, this update is now rolling out to early testers who are eager to try it before the stable release lands later in the year.

The Open Beta is currently available for the Nothing Phone (3), Phone (2), Phone (2a), and Phone (2a) Plus. While the Phone (3a) and (3a) Pro are not yet eligible, Nothing has confirmed they’ll join the program in October. If you own one of the supported models, you’ll need to make sure your device is on the latest stable software version first. After that, installation requires downloading an APK linked through the official Nothing Community post. Once installed, you’ll find a new section in Settings > System called Nothing Beta Hub, where you can sign up and enroll your device. From there, tapping Go to Update will kick off the beta installation.

As with any beta software, users should proceed with caution. The OS is still in active development, which means stability issues and app incompatibilities are to be expected. Many testers warn that essential apps such as banking services, streaming platforms like Netflix, and even basic utilities may not work properly during this stage. Nothing itself advises against running the beta on your primary device and encourages testers to report problems through Settings > System > Feedback. The company is relying heavily on community participation to refine the experience ahead of the stable rollout.

Early impressions suggest that Nothing OS 4.0 introduces smoother animations, improved widget customization, and enhanced privacy controls, in line with Android 16’s broader system updates. While these features are appealing, the reality is that betas can be unpredictable – some users may enjoy a fast and fluid experience, while others may struggle with app crashes or inconsistent battery life. That’s the risk and thrill of joining a beta program.

For those considering new hardware, affiliate partner deals are already popping up. The Nothing Phone (3) with 256GB storage and 12GB RAM is listed around €762 / $799, while the 512GB + 16GB RAM variant is available at €795 / $899. The Phone (2) comes in cheaper, starting at €377 / $659 for the 256GB + 12GB RAM model. The Phone (2a) has entry pricing from just €175 / $289, making it one of the most budget-friendly options in Nothing’s lineup. The Phone (2a) Plus, Phone (3a), and (3a) Pro variants also show competitive pricing across RAM and storage configurations, though the beta rollout schedule varies.

In short, the Nothing OS 4.0 beta marks a significant step forward for the brand, not only aligning its devices with Google’s latest Android release but also giving enthusiasts an early chance to shape the final version. Just remember: while the future of Nothing’s ecosystem looks exciting, betas are for risk-takers who can handle glitches – and ideally have a backup phone to fall back on.