Nothing
Nothing OS 2.6 September Update Rolls Out for Nothing Phone (2a)
Nothing has begun releasing the recent software update for Nothing Phone (2a). The build number is Pacman-U2.6-240828-1906-IND for this update and it is integrated with a bunch of exciting features, improvements, and bug fixes to enhance the user experience.
The software version remains the same as Nothing OS 2.6 and the update size is now 0.96 GB which is huge. It will take almost 10-15 minutes for the installation.
Nothing OS 2.6 September Update for Nothing Phone (2a)
This update introduces the News Reporter Widget. Now, have your daily news read aloud by Tim, the CFO of Nothing. The feature is still in beta and leverages several generative AI models.
Finally, it is now possible for users to display the Battery and Pedometer Widgets on the lock screen and Always On Display. The date widget has been updated to allow for auto-update via toggles in settings.
The update allows swiping down on an incoming notification to enter Pop-up view to have easy access to information without necessarily having to leave an app. This feature can be enabled from Settings under System > Pop-up view.
Other added functionalities include the ability to delete wallpaper history in Wallpaper Studio and new notifications in Charging Assistant that inform about the charging status.
Now you will see more clarity in 2x zoom in Portrait Mode Camera. This update also optimizes the compatibility for specific chargers. An update of Google Mobile Services has been included. It improves audio delay in some call scenarios along with stability of Bluetooth connection.
Vibration has now been enabled while the device is on Power Saving Mode, and the device has been updated to the September 2024 Android Security Patch for improved security.
This update fixes the following bugs: auto-rotation not working in some cloned apps and the Media Player Widget not playing music when switching from guest to the main user. It also makes sure that the Bluetooth tile will show proper information about the earbuds and screen flickering upon long-press of the power button at low battery levels is fixed.
Other fixes include the fix for the system crash brought on by the animation of windows; the display issue of the Atmosphere Wallpaper Effect shown on the lock screen was rectified; and so on.
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.