Nothing
Nothing OS 3.0 Open Beta 1 Now Available for Nothing Phone (1) Users
Nothing has officially launched the Nothing OS 3.0 Open Beta 1, bringing Android 15’s features to the Nothing Phone (1). Starting today, December 13, users can download the update and explore the exciting new changes. However, this is still a beta version, so users may encounter some bugs. Nothing encourages feedback to help refine the software and enhance the overall experience.
The update is 1.2 GB, and the installation took 20-25 minutes to complete. It includes the November 2024 Android security patch.
What’s New in Nothing OS 3.0 Open Beta 1 for Nothing Phone (1)
One of the standout features is Shared Widgets, a unique way to stay connected with loved ones. This feature allows users to display another person’s widgets on their home screen and interact through reactions. Currently, it supports only Nothing devices and Photo Widgets (square), but further updates are expected to expand its functionality.
The lock screen has also received significant upgrades. Users can now access a new customisation page by long-pressing the lock screen or through the settings menu. The update introduces redesigned clock faces and expands widget space, making the lock screen more personal and functional.
The Smart Drawer is another addition to Nothing OS 3.0, offering an AI-powered organisation system that automatically categorises apps into folders for easier access. Users can also pin their favourite apps to the top of the drawer, ensuring quick navigation without scrolling.
Quick Settings Panel have been refined with an optimised editing experience, making it easier to manage. The widget library and the Settings interface have been visually enhanced, particularly in sections like Network & Internet and Bluetooth. These changes aim to provide a cleaner and more user-friendly interface.
The camera experience has been improved as well. Users will notice faster camera launch speeds from the Camera Widget, reduced processing time for HDR scenes, and a smoother interface for countdown photos. Additionally, the zoom slider display has been refined for a more intuitive experience.
The pop-up view feature now supports easier resizing and movement, making multitasking cleaner and more productive. Users can pin pop-ups to the screen edge for quick access or view notifications directly in a pop-up window by swiping down, without leaving the current app.
Other enhancements include AI-powered app selection for quicker access to frequently used apps and an auto-archive function that frees up storage space without deleting data. Users can also enjoy partial screen sharing, allowing them to record or share only a specific app window instead of the entire screen. New animations for fingerprint and charging actions add a touch of Nothing’s signature dot matrix style.
How to Update
For users interested in trying the Open Beta, ensure that your device is running Nothing OS 2.6 with build number Spacewar-U2.6-241031-1818. Download the required APK, install it, and navigate to Settings > System > Update to Beta Version to check for the new version. If the update isn’t available yet, it may take some time to roll out.
As this is an early version, Nothing reminds users that bugs might occur, especially with features like Shared Widgets. Feedback can be submitted through Settings > System > Feedback, and users can join the discussion thread for community insights.
This Open Beta release reflects Nothing’s commitment to innovation and user experience. As the company works towards the final version, Nothing Phone (1) users can enjoy a sneak peek at what’s in store with Android 15.
London-based tech company Nothing, led by co-founder and CEO Carl Pei, is making big plans for India. During his visit to the country, Pei met with Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, to discuss the company’s future.
After the meeting, Pei shared on X (formerly Twitter) that Nothing will invest about $100 million (around Rs 860 crores) in India over the next three years. This investment will also create more than 1,800 new jobs. As part of the plan, Nothing is setting up a joint manufacturing venture with Optiemus, a well-known Indian electronics manufacturer.
What About CMF by Nothing, Nothing’s Sub-Brand?
Nothing also confirmed changes for its budget-friendly sub-brand CMF by Nothing. The company said CMF will now function as an independent subsidiary in India, with its global operations, R&D, and manufacturing shifting to the country.
Carl Pei called CMF a “success in India” and said the brand aims to become the first truly global smartphone brand from India. Optiemus Executive Chairman Ashok Gupta added that this collaboration reflects the strength of the Indian tech ecosystem and supports the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ vision.
What’s Next for Nothing?
Nothing has been growing rapidly, recently reaching a $1.3 billion valuation. The company also raised $200 million in a Series C funding round. Looking ahead, Nothing is preparing to enter the AI race next year, with plans to launch AI-powered devices designed to change how people use AI on their smartphones.
With this new investment and expansion, India is set to become a major hub for Nothing’s manufacturing, exports, and innovation.
Nothing has released a new software update for the Nothing Phone (3) this September. The update comes with the build number Nothing OS V3.5-250911-2112 and has a size of 280 MB. It brings multiple improvements to the camera, system performance, and overall user experience.
Camera Enhancements
The new update focuses heavily on improving the camera experience. The exposure slider is now smoother and easier to control, while a tint issue that caused unnatural colours has been fixed for more balanced results.
The AI SuperRes Zoom has also been updated, making text appear sharper. Action Mode now produces less noise, and third-party apps benefit from better camera clarity. Videos also look better with improved contrast, reduced haze, and more vibrant colours.
General Improvements and Fixes
Along with the camera, the update brings many system-level enhancements. The Glyph Matrix display for Always-on Glyph Toys now works better in multi-user mode. A bug that showed duplicated contact avatars in Essential Notifications has been fixed, and haptic feedback issues while previewing Generative mode have also been resolved.
For Arabic users, the title alignment in the “About phone” section has been improved. The Bluetooth device recording UI has been redesigned and can be found in Settings > Sound & Vibration.
The update also focuses on better performance—battery consumption has been optimised, heating issues in certain scenarios have been reduced, and Wi-Fi connectivity is now more stable. Overall system stability and speed have also been improved.
With this update, the Nothing Phone (3) promises a smoother performance and an improved camera setup, making it more reliable for daily use and photography. Users are advised to download the update for the best experience.
Nothing has launched its latest true wireless earphones, the Nothing Ear (3). The new earbuds bring a fresh design, better sound, longer battery life, and an all-new Super Mic feature for clearer calls.
Improved Design with Aluminum
For the first time, the Ear (3) uses aluminum parts in its case, giving it a premium look while keeping the brand’s signature transparent design.
Super Mic for Clearer Calls
The highlight of the Ear (3) is the Super Mic system built into the case. It is a dual-mic setup that can reduce up to 95 dB of noise, activated with a new ‘Talk’ button. This feature improves call clarity and can also be used for recording voice notes on both Android and iOS.
Each earbud also has a three-mic system with bone-conduction technology for better voice pickup. The earbuds support adaptive noise cancellation up to 45 dB for an improved listening experience.
Better Sound and Features
The Ear (3) comes with 12mm dynamic drivers, tuned for stronger bass and a wider soundstage. It supports Spatial Audio (static) and audio codecs like AAC, SBC, and LDAC.
Other features include:
- Bluetooth 5.4 with dual-device connection
- In-ear detection
- Low-lag mode
- Hi-Res certification
- IP54 rating for both earbuds and case
Battery Life and Charging
Each earbud has a 55 mAh battery, while the case houses a 500 mAh cell. With ANC on, the Ear (3) lasts up to 5.5 hours, and up to 10 hours without ANC. The charging case provides an extra 38 hours. The case also supports fast charging and wireless charging.
Price and Availability
The Nothing Ear (3) will be available in White and Black colors, priced at $179 / €179. Sales will begin on September 25. Currently, I have no idea when it will be coming to India.
Suryakant parida
December 20, 2024 at 4:09 pm
3.0 update