Nothing
Nothing OS 3.0: New Lock Screen, Quick Settings Panel, Release Date, and More
Nothing OS has evolved from just any other Android UI to one of the most unique and feature-rich interfaces currently found in the smartphone space. Backed by the runaway success of Nothing OS 2.5 in 2023, there has been much anticipation for Nothing OS 3.0, due later this year.
Nothing OS 3.0 Release Date and Expectations
Nothing OS 2.5 was released in December, which means two months after the stable rollout of Android 14. With Google launching Android 15 with its Pixel 9 series this August, expectations are that Nothing OS 3.0 will follow this October if the previous schedule holds.
In May, Nothing released the Android 15 Developer Preview Beta 1 for the Phone (2) and (2a). Very soon, the updates for the next beta version will be known. Nothing is notorious for their really fast adoption of new Android updates; however, with such massive UI changes and additions of many features, testing periods could get longer.
Device Compatibility
All the Nothing devices launched till now are eligible for three years of major updates, except the CMF Phone 1 that will have two. Essentially, this means all existing Nothing phones will get Nothing OS 3.0 support. Here’s the update list:
- Nothing Phone (2a) Plus
- Nothing Phone (2a)
- Nothing Phone (2)
- Nothing Phone (1)
- CMF Phone 1
Nothing Phone (2a) and (2a) Plus are the newest devices; it is going to reach them first, probably in the September or October month, before reaching other models.
Nothing OS 3.0 Expected Features
1. New Lock Screen Customization:
New clock styles and customizations for widgets are coming. The users can now make the clock face small to see more notifications. This update features mid-aligned clocks with various design elements, somewhat similar to how Apple does its lock screen.
2. Revamped Quick Settings Panel
Nothing OS 3.0 will pack a long-delayed refresh to the Quick Settings panel that’s finally coming. In this new design, tiles would appear smaller and more discreet, turning red when toggled on, further improving the look of the interface and sticking way closer to Nothing’s aesthetic language.
3. Interactive Dot Animations:
Not much information is available about the above-mentioned animations, but they can be used to add a bit of life and interaction to app icons and widgets. For instance, a widget that adjusts the screen brightness could implement some sort of animation that will demonstrate, in an eye-pleasing way, precisely by how much the brightness has changed.
4. Community and Gallery Apps:
Nothing is building standalone apps for its community and gallery and move away from purely Web-based interfaces to far more unified mobile experiences.
5. Private Space:
Another massive feature of Android 15 that might make its way onto Nothing OS 3.0 is Private Space. This feature enables the hiding of apps, locking, and even cloning of apps for better privacy and convenience. Carl Pei also asked about these features being added to Nothing OS for its followers on X (formerly known as Twitter).
Nothing also recently announced the Android 15 closed beta program for Nothing Phone (2a). It will be based on Nothing OS 3.0 with new features and improvements. What are some of the features you’d like to see in the UI? Let us know in the comments.
If you’re a Nothing Phone user, here’s some exciting news! The newly introduced Noting App is gaining attention for its unique design and features. Inspired by the branding of Nothing, the app offers a seamless note-taking experience while maintaining a stylish interface that complements the Nothing Phone aesthetic.
A Functional Yet Sleek Notes Application
The Noting App is not just another note-taking tool. It is designed for functionality and style. With this app, users can:
- Save and organize notes.
- Create detailed to-do lists.
- Set reminders for tasks.
What makes it special is its Nothing-inspired design, featuring a clean, dark interface with dotted accents and smooth animations that feel right at home with the minimalistic vibe of Nothing Phones. Although currently available in a dark mode theme, there are hints that a light mode option might be added in the future.
First Impressions: User-Friendly Features
Upon launching the app, users are greeted with a polished welcome screen. Signing in via Google allows seamless syncing of data across devices. The app’s layout includes sections for:
- Notes
- Work
- Lists
- To-Dos
Creating a note or task is intuitive, with options to add titles, descriptions, and even set due dates and reminders. The app also includes a progress bar for task completion, making it easier to track your productivity visually.
Developer’s Touch and Future Updates
The app is developed by a creator already known for third-party tools like the Nothing Dialer. While the current version is in its beta phase, users can expect new features like:
- Password-protected notes.
- The ability to export notes as PDFs.
- Enhanced customization options, including themes and layouts.
Compatibility and Availability
The Noting App is optimized for Nothing Phone models and offers a rotating screen mode for users who prefer horizontal viewing. While it’s currently shared with a limited number of beta testers, the developers plan to release it widely by the end of the year. Interested users can join the beta testing program through the developer’s Discord community.
The Android 15-based Nothing OS 3.0 Open Beta 1 is now available for users of the Nothing Phone (2). This latest software release by Nothing brings a range of new features and improvements, allowing users to experience Android 15’s capabilities firsthand.
This announcement was made through Nothing’s community forum, which also revealed that Nothing Phone (1), Phone (2a) Plus, and CMF Phone 1 will receive the Android 15-based update next month. Here’s everything you need to know about the new beta version, including its features, installation instructions, and potential issues.
What’s New in Nothing OS 3.0 Open Beta 1?
The Nothing OS 3.0 Open Beta 1 introduces several exciting features aimed at enhancing user experience, including:
1. Shared Widgets
- Users can now connect with friends and family through shared widgets. This feature allows others’ widgets to appear on your home screen, letting you stay connected and react to each other’s updates right from your device.
2. Enhanced Lock Screen Customization
- The lock screen has been upgraded with a new customization page, accessible by long-pressing on the screen. Users can select from updated clock styles and enjoy expanded widget space, making it easier to display more information right from the lock screen.
3. AI-Powered Smart Drawer
- The AI-driven Smart Drawer can now automatically organize apps into folders based on category. Additionally, users can pin their favorite apps at the top of the drawer for faster access.
4. Quick Settings and Visual Updates
- The Quick Settings menu has a refreshed design with an easier editing process. The Settings app also features an improved widget library, along with visual updates in sections like Network & Internet and Bluetooth.
5. Camera Improvements
- The camera experience is enhanced with faster launch speeds, reduced HDR processing times, and optimized portrait effects. Low-light performance is improved, and the zoom slider now has a more user-friendly display.
6. Enhanced Pop-Up View for Multitasking
- Users can now move and resize the pop-up view for easier multitasking. This feature allows notifications to be viewed without leaving the current app, providing a cleaner and more efficient experience.
7. Additional Improvements
- Other notable updates include a new auto-archive function to free up storage space, partial screen sharing for improved privacy, and updates to the fingerprint and charging animations with the signature Nothing dot-matrix styling.
How to Install the Nothing OS 3.0 Open Beta 1 on Nothing Phone (2)
To get the new beta version, follow these steps:
- Pre-requisite: Ensure your Nothing Phone (2) is updated to Nothing OS version 2.6, with build number Pong-U2.6-241016-1700.
- Download the APK: Update to Beta Version APK
- Install the APK: Open the downloaded file and install it.
- Start the Update:
- Go to Settings > System > Update to Beta Version.
- Tap on “Check for new version” and follow the prompts.
Important Note: This is a beta version, meaning it may contain bugs that could affect the device’s performance or user experience. It’s recommended to back up your data before installing, as a factory reset may be required.
Expected Timeline for Stable Release
Nothing has not specified an official date for the stable release of Android 15-based Nothing OS 3.0. However, with continued testing and feedback from beta users, the final stable version is expected by December 2024.
Future Updates for Other Nothing Devices
In addition to the Phone (2), Nothing has confirmed that other devices, including the Phone (1), Phone (2a) Plus, and CMF Phone 1, will receive the Android 15-based beta update in December 2024.
The Android 15-based Nothing OS 3.0 Open Beta 1 offers a substantial set of upgrades for Nothing Phone (2) users eager to experience new Android features. From enhanced widgets and an AI-powered Smart Drawer to improved camera functionality, this update brings both usability and aesthetic improvements. However, as with all beta software, users should be cautious of potential bugs and back up their data before installation.
Nothing, a company known for its innovative technology, might soon offer a transparent back case for its CMF Phone 1. The CMF Phone, a budget-friendly device from Nothing’s sub-brand CMF by Nothing, features a replaceable back that users can easily remove and customize with accessories provided by the brand.
The idea gained traction after a Reddit user named Cruz created a transparent back case for the CMF Phone 1 and shared pictures online. The images, posted on X (formerly Twitter), received widespread attention, garnering many likes and shares. Numerous users expressed their desire for such an accessory, highlighting the community’s interest.
The excitement reached new heights when Akis Evangelidis, co-founder of Nothing and the CMF Phone 1, quoted the tweet with the message, “Should we?” This interaction suggests that Nothing is considering the idea seriously.
Fans of the brand are now eagerly anticipating the official release of a transparent back case, which promises to add a unique touch to their CMF Phone 1.