Nothing OS 4.0 Beta has officially rolled out its Open Beta program for the Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro series, bringing a fresh wave of Android 16-powered features to Nothing Phone users. The beta update introduces a significant visual overhaul, enhanced lock screen customisation, and new camera modes, all designed to enhance user experience and system performance.

Lock Glimpse and Refined Interface Enhance Personalisation

Key highlights of Nothing OS 4.0 Beta include the innovative "Lock Glimpse" feature, which delivers high-quality, curated wallpapers across nine categories directly to the lock screen. This feature not only refreshes your phone’s aesthetics but also offers timely updates and content with future plans to allow users to showcase their own photos, ensuring a personalised and dynamic lock screen experience. The update also brings a refined and lighter icon design, new lock screen clock styles, and a revamped “About” section to give users a visually cohesive interface.

Performance Boosts, Multitasking, and Creative Camera Features

Performance optimisations are also a big part of this release, focusing on battery life improvements, system responsiveness, camera stability, and network connectivity enhancements. Users will find new multitasking capabilities like floating windows and an "Extra Dark Mode" option, which further enhance usability and comfort. Additionally, the camera experience gets a boost with the "Stretch" preset, developed in collaboration with professional photographer Jordan Hemingway, to offer cinematic effects for creative photography enthusiasts.

Beta Program Details and User Guidelines

The Open Beta program is available until November 7, 2025, and users interested in joining must first update their devices to the latest stable build (Asteroids-V3.2-251013-1406 for Phone 3a and 3a Pro) before enrolling through the Beta Updates Hub APK. As with any beta software, participants are advised to back up their data prior to installation, as initial installation may cause temporary heating and increased battery consumption. Feedback from beta testers will be crucial for polishing the final release.

Nothing OS 4.0 Beta exemplifies a blend of aesthetic refinement and functional enhancements, with a particular emphasis on lock screen innovation and system efficiency, making it a compelling upgrade for the Nothing Phone (3a) series users keen on experiencing the latest in Android 16.