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Nothing OS 4.0 Android 16 Closed Beta Announced for Phone (3) Users
Nothing has officially announced the Closed Beta program for its upcoming operating system update — Nothing OS 4.0, based on Android 16. This early build is now available exclusively for Phone (3) users who want to test the latest features before the official rollout. The company is offering this early access as a way to thank its early supporters.
In this Closed Beta, Nothing is focusing on bringing Android 16’s core features along with a stronger and more consistent design system. The new UI changes are expected to lay the foundation for a more polished and cohesive user experience in the future versions of Nothing OS.
Since this is a beta version, users can expect bugs and certain features not working properly. Nothing encourages users to join this program and help them identify and fix issues before the Open Beta release in September 2025. It’s a chance for users to be part of the development process and shape the final software.
To be eligible, participants must use the Phone (3) as their daily device. They should also be willing to provide regular feedback to the Nothing team, maintain information security, and understand that this early build may be unstable. Testing is expected to run from August 2025 to early September.
Nothing also warns users that this Android 16 build is in its early stages of development. Some features may be missing or not function properly. It is strongly recommended to back up your device regularly while testing. More details and disclaimers can be found in the sign-up form.
If you’re interested in joining, you need to fill out the form linked below before 5 PM BST on Sunday, August 3, 2025. Selected users will be informed via email within a week, along with complete onboarding instructions.
Phone (3) Android 16 Closed Beta Sign-Up Form
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Nothing has started rolling out the Nothing OS 4.1 October 2026 update for the Nothing Phone (2). The update focuses on bug fixes, system stability improvements, and connectivity optimisations. It also brings the October 2026 security patch.
The update size is 107 MB, making it a relatively small maintenance update.
Nothing OS 4.1 October Update: What’s New?
According to the official changelog displayed on the device, the update includes the following improvements:
- Video playback: Improved smoothness for videos recorded at 1080p@ 60FPS.
- Bluetooth: Optimised connection stability when activating the voice assistant.
- Wi-Fi hotspot: Fixed an issue where the hotspot frequency did not match the selected option in certain cases.
- System stability: Enhanced overall system stability.
- Security: Updated to the October 2026 security patch.
How to Download the Update
Nothing Phone (2) users can check for the latest update by navigating to Settings > System > System Update. If the update is available, download and install it.
The rollout may happen in phases, so some users might have to wait before receiving the update.
If you don’t receive any OTA related to the update, you can manually update through our Nothing Firmware app.
Overall, the Nothing OS 4.1 October update is a minor maintenance release focused on improving the everyday user experience rather than introducing new features.
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Nothing has teased another Pokémon on its official X account and Nothing Community, hinting that a new product could be on the way. This time, the company has shared Kingdra, Pokémon #230 in the National Pokédex.
Kingdra is a Water/Dragon-type Pokémon introduced in Generation II. The teaser features the Pokémon alongside a cryptic description about sleeping deep on the ocean floor to build energy and causing tornadoes when it wakes up.
What Could Nothing Be Launching Next?
Nothing has not revealed which product the new Pokémon teaser refers to. However, the company has previously used Pokémon-themed teasers to build anticipation for upcoming devices, making this latest post worth watching.
An audio product, such as new Nothing Ear earbuds or headphones, could be one possibility. A new smartphone or another product category cannot be ruled out either.
For now, the product name, specifications, pricing and launch date remain unknown. More details may emerge through future teasers from the company.
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WhatsApp is testing a new shortcut that makes sharing Instagram Reels directly in chats easier. The feature adds a dedicated Reels button to the chat attachment menu, allowing users to quickly find and share Instagram content without navigating through multiple menus.
The feature was spotted in WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.42.9 and is currently rolling out to some beta testers.
WhatsApp Adds a Dedicated Reels Button
Previously, users who linked their WhatsApp account to Meta’s Accounts Center could access Instagram Reels through the media picker. However, finding the option required opening the picker and selecting Instagram from the source list.
With the new shortcut, users can tap the Reels button directly from the chat attachment menu to open a dedicated interface for browsing and sharing content.
Recent, Saved and Liked Reels
The new interface includes three tabs:
- Recent: Reels recently watched on Instagram.
- Saved: Reels saved by the user.
- Liked: Reels liked by the user.
Users can browse these sections and select content to share in WhatsApp chats. The interface also reportedly provides access to posts.
Availability
The shortcut requires users to link their WhatsApp account to Meta’s Accounts Center. This integration remains optional, so users who prefer to keep their accounts separate can continue using WhatsApp without connecting them.
The feature is rolling out gradually to Android beta testers through the Google Play Store. WhatsApp has not yet announced when the dedicated Reels shortcut will become available to all users.
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