Nothing is making strides in the smartphone market with the timely release of the Nothing OS 5.0 open beta, now available for the Phone (4a), Phone (3a Pro), and Phone (3a). This rollout comes just ahead of the anticipated official launch of Android 17 next month.
Enhancements and Features
The upcoming Android 17 package introduces several noteworthy enhancements tailored for Nothing devices. Initially unveiled as a beta update for the Nothing Phone (3), it showcases visual improvements to the system UI and animations throughout the operating system. Users can look forward to:
- Newly designed widgets
- Upgrades to the camera application
- A dedicated Glyph app for managing light controls and features
For those eager to dive deeper into the specifics, a comprehensive changelog is available in our previous coverage. At its essence, this update aligns Nothing’s offerings with the latest version of Android, reflecting the company’s unique approach to both hardware and software design.
Currently, the Android 17 beta is being rolled out to the Nothing Phone (4a), Phone (3a Pro), and Phone (3a), while the Phone (3a) Lite will receive its update later in the year. Users of the eligible devices can now experience the early stages of Nothing OS 5.0, bringing them up to speed with the capabilities of the Phone (3).
Timely Rollout and Future Plans
In terms of scheduling, Nothing is adhering to its planned timeline. The company had previously shared its release schedule alongside the first open beta, and it remains consistent. Following the current rollout, the Phone (2a) and Phone (2a) Plus are set to receive updates in October.
Additionally, the Phone (4a) and Phone (3a) series are slated for the official Android 17 build in early November, with the entire rollout expected to conclude by January 2027. For now, users of the Phone (4a) and (3a) series can enjoy the early access to Nothing OS 5.0, marking a significant step forward in their smartphone experience.
