Nothing
Top Changes in Nothing OS 3.0 Open Beta Update: Everything You Need to Know
The Nothing OS 3.0 Open Beta update has introduced exciting new features and improvements for several devices, including the CMF Phone 1, Nothing Phone (1), and Nothing Phone (2a). Let’s explore the key changes that enhance user experience and address previous issues.
1. N-Dot Font Back
One of the most requested features by the Nothing community, the dot matrix font style (N-Dot Font), has made a comeback. Users can enable this classic aesthetic in the “Special Features” section under Settings. Currently, this feature is exclusive to the CMF Phone 1 and Nothing Phone (1). There’s hope it will be extended to other devices, like the Nothing Phone (2a), in future updates.
2. New Always-On Display Options
The Always-On Display (AOD) feature now comes with two additional modes:
- Tap to Show: The display remains off when idle but lights up temporarily with a single tap.
- Always On: As the name suggests, the display stays active constantly, though this may drain more battery.
These options provide more flexibility for users who want better control over their AOD settings.
3. Home Screen Freeze Option
A Freeze Home Screen Layout feature has been introduced to prevent accidental changes to app icons and widgets. Once enabled, users cannot move or delete items on the home screen. To make changes, this setting must be disabled first.
This addition is particularly useful for those who want to lock their layout for a cleaner experience.
4. Hidden Photos and Fingerprint Security
The updated gallery now includes a hidden album section where users can store private photos. This feature supports fingerprint authentication, adding an extra layer of security for personal content. To hide a photo, users simply select the “Hide” option, and it moves to the hidden section.
5. Improved Hotspot Compatibility
The update brings a new option called Extended Compatibility under Wi-Fi hotspot settings. This feature resolves issues where laptops or certain devices couldn’t detect the hotspot. Enabling this option ensures a seamless connection across multiple devices.
6. Launcher Bug Fixes and Improvements
The update addresses several launcher-related bugs:
- Quick Settings Access: Previously, the quick settings panel would appear on the lock screen even if the option was disabled. This has now been fixed.
- White Fade Issue: Users who applied black or AMOLED wallpapers noticed a white fade effect at the top of the screen. This has been resolved for a better visual experience.
Final Thoughts
The Nothing OS 3.0 update brings significant improvements while addressing user feedback. From design enhancements like the dot matrix font to practical updates like improved hotspot compatibility and gallery privacy, Nothing continues to refine its operating system for a better user experience.
Nothing has released a new software update for its Nothing Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro, bringing a range of improvements, new features, and bug fixes. The update has a size of 96.60 MB and aims to enhance the overall user experience, particularly in the camera department and system performance.
New Feature: Essential Key Integration with Camera
One of the key additions in this update is the integration of the Essential Key with the camera app. This feature allows users to interact with the camera more efficiently:
- A short press of the Essential Key lets users add notes directly.
- A long press activates voice input for capturing real-world content in a faster and more convenient way.
This update makes the Essential Key more useful, especially for those who frequently take notes or record voice memos on the go.
Camera Enhancements for Better Photography
The new update focuses heavily on improving the camera performance of both Nothing Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro. Several enhancements have been made to deliver a better photography experience:
- More intuitive camera zoom interaction – Zooming is now smoother and more responsive.
- Fix for reddish skin tones in selfies – The front-facing camera now captures more natural skin tones.
- Enhanced white balance for indoor photography – Colors in indoor shots will now look more accurate and balanced.
- Improved clarity in portrait shots under backlight – Portrait photos taken in strong backlight conditions will have better detail and tone.
- Better focus accuracy at 2x zoom – This improvement is available only for Phone (3a) Pro, ensuring sharper and clearer images at 2x focal length.
- Faster overall camera performance – The camera app now responds quicker, making it easier to capture moments without lag.
These improvements aim to provide better image quality and a smoother camera experience, making the Nothing Phone (3a) series more reliable for photography.
Other System Improvements
Apart from camera upgrades, the update also includes refinements to system performance and user experience. Some of the key enhancements include:
- Optimized Essential Space – The Essential Space feature has been improved for smoother performance and better usability.
- Improved Always-On Display (AOD) animations – The transitions between different AOD states are now more fluid and visually appealing.
- Bug fixes and stability improvements – The update also includes various fixes to enhance overall system stability and reduce crashes or glitches.
Final Thoughts
With this update, Nothing continues to refine the Phone (3a) and (3a) Pro, delivering a better camera experience, improved usability, and system optimizations. If you own either of these devices, it’s recommended to install the update as soon as possible to enjoy the latest improvements.
Nothing India has announced an exciting opportunity for content creators to be part of its Community Review Program. This program allows selected participants to receive and review an upcoming Nothing product before its official release. Creators will be able to share their insights with the Nothing Community and on their social media platforms.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the program, you must be a resident of India and 18 years or older. Applicants should be passionate about Nothing and its products and eager to create product reviews through writing, photography, or videography.
Participants must also follow strict information security guidelines before the product is publicly released, which includes signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). Additionally, selected participants are required to adhere to embargo dates and deadlines set by Nothing.
Terms & Conditions
Participation in the program is subject to the terms & conditions set by Nothing, which may change over time. Nothing has the sole discretion in selecting participants, and applying does not guarantee selection.
Review devices are provided on a loan basis and must be returned after the review period. Since the program is ongoing, Nothing may invite different participants at different times based on upcoming product releases.
How to Apply
If you are interested in joining the Nothing India Community Review Program, fill out the application form. Applications will remain open throughout the year.
This is a great opportunity to showcase your creativity, test new products, and engage with the Nothing Community before anyone else.
Nothing has officially confirmed a major camera update for its smartphones. CEO Carl Pei recently tweeted that new camera presets are coming to older Nothing phones, along with various improvements in camera tuning.
What’s New in the Camera Update?
- New Camera Presets: Users can create and customize their own camera presets, making photography more personalized.
- Existing Camera Presets: Presets such as Soft Focus, Black & White, Wide Angle, Lenticular, and Close-Up are available in Nothing OS 3.1 on the Phone (3a) Pro.
- Better Zoom Options: More zoom levels like 0.6x, 1x, 2x, 3x, and 6x will be available in the camera app.
- Optimized Camera Interface: The layout of camera settings has been improved for easier access.
- Improved Camera Tuning: Nothing has tested new camera tuning strategies on the Nothing Phone (3a) series and may bring these improvements to older devices.
Which Phones Will Get the Update?
The update is expected to roll out for:
- Nothing Phone (2a)
- Nothing Phone (2)
- Nothing Phone (1)
- CMF Phone 1
When Will the Update Arrive?
Carl Pei mentioned that the new camera improvements will be implemented if the feedback from the Nothing Phone (3a) series is positive. The update could be included in Nothing OS 3.2, expected in April 2025.
This update aims to provide a better photography experience for Nothing phone users.