If you have a Nothing Phone 3a or Nothing Phone 3a Pro, there’s some exciting news! Nothing has started an open beta update for its new software — Nothing OS 4.0, which is based on Android 16.
This means you can now try the new version before everyone else. But remember, it’s a beta version, so it might have some bugs or small problems. Let’s talk about what’s new, how to install it, and if you should try it or wait for the final version.
What’s New in the Android 16 Beta for Nothing Phone 3a
Here are the main new things in this update:
- New design and icons: The phone’s look has changed a bit. The icons are cleaner and more modern. The whole design feels fresh and smooth.
- New “Stretch” camera mode: The camera app now has a new mode called “Stretch.” It was made with a photographer named Jordan Hemingway. This mode makes your photos look more professional, with deeper shadows and brighter highlights.
- Lock Glimpse feature: This is a new lock screen option. It shows beautiful wallpapers from 9 categories and gives you small updates or useful info on your lock screen. You can also turn it off or replace it with your own photos.
- Faster and smoother system: Since it’s based on Android 16, the phone runs faster and smoother. You’ll notice better performance and stability.
- Pre-installed apps: Some phones will come with a few popular third-party apps already installed. Don’t worry — you can remove them if you don’t want them. Nothing says it helps them support the product and keep it affordable.
Why This Update Matters
- You get Android 16 early!: Usually, big updates take time. But Nothing is giving its users early access, which is great news.
- It looks and feels new: The new icons, wallpapers, and lock screen make the phone look more polished.
- You can help Nothing improve it: Because this is an open beta, users can share feedback and help Nothing fix bugs before the final release.
- Shows Nothing’s commitment: Even though the Phone 3a is not a flagship, Nothing is giving it early updates. This shows they care about software support.
How to Join the Beta
If you want to try this new version, follow these steps carefully:
- Check your current version: Make sure your phone is using the latest stable version (Asteroids-V3.2-251013-1406).
- Download the Beta Hub app: Nothing has shared an app called “Beta Updates Hub.” You can download it from their community website.
- Join the beta
- Open Settings → System → Nothing Beta Hub → Join Beta.
- After that, check for updates under Settings → System → System updates.
- Back up your data first: Before installing, make sure to save your photos, contacts, and files. Sometimes beta versions can cause data loss or errors.
- If you want to go back to the old version: You can, but your phone will be completely reset (all data will be deleted).
The beta is open until November 7, 2025, so you need to join before that date.
What to Be Careful About
Good things (Pros):
- You get new features early.
- You can test the new look and camera updates.
- You can share feedback with Nothing.
Not-so-good things (Cons):
- Since it’s a beta, it can have bugs or small issues.
- The phone might get hot or the battery may drain faster at first.
- Some users don’t like having pre-installed apps.
If you want to go back to the stable version, you’ll lose your data.
Should You Try It or Wait?
It depends on how you use your phone.
Try the beta if:
- You like testing new things.
- You don’t mind a few bugs or small problems.
- You can handle a bit of instability.
- You like giving feedback to improve the phone.
Wait for the final version if:
- You use your phone for work or school and need it to be 100% reliable.
- You don’t want to risk losing your data.
- You prefer a smooth, problem-free experience.
If you’re a tech fan and love new updates, go ahead and try the beta. But if you just want your phone to “work perfectly,” waiting for the stable release is better.
Final Thoughts
The new Android 16 beta with Nothing OS 4.0 is a big step for the Nothing Phone 3a series. It brings a fresh design, better camera tools, and a smoother experience.
Nothing is showing that they care about keeping their phones updated and fresh. It’s exciting to see a company giving mid-range phones this kind of early access.
If you want to try new things first and don’t mind a few hiccups — go for it!
If you prefer your phone to be stable and worry-free — just wait a bit for the final update.
Either way, the future looks bright for Nothing users. Android 16 with Nothing OS 4.0 is shaping up to be a fun, smart, and stylish upgrade.
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