Nothing OS 4.0, which runs on Android 16, has finally started to roll out to Nothing devices and it contains one of the most refined and highly featured updates the brand has ever released. The update includes re-engineered visuals, enhanced privacy settings and improved uptake of the Glyph interface in making the experience smarter, faster and more personalized. We deconstruct all the new inNothing OS 4.0 in this review and answer this question: Should you upgrade right now?
Refined UI: Cleaner Icons, Smoother Animations & Better Layouts
Nothing OS 4.0 brings a more highly developed user interface. The shapes are much smoother, the control center is more fluid and the overall layout is more balanced. Even minor details, such as haptic, lock screen clock, and padding in the widgets, are now more high-end.
The animations have become smooth and faster. Switching between the apps is less threatening, and the touch reaction is more precise, particularly on the Nothing Phone (2) and Phone (2a).
Glyph Redesign: Smarter Lights Live Updates Support
The major feature of Nothing OS 4. 0 is the redesigned Glyph interface. The Glyphs are more functional than ever with superior synchronization, cleaner patterns and more contextual lights.
New Glyph Features Include:
- Integration with Live Updates of delivery apps, ride apps, timers, etc.
- Enhanced Glyph Advancement of in-progress activities.
- Better brightness and animations.
- New visual call, notification and alarm indicators.
This not only renders the Glyph lights aesthetically, but really convenient in providing real-time updates.
Android 16’s Power Under the Hood
Nothing OS 4.0 is based on the Android 16, and it is characterized by enhanced security, stability and significant increase in system performance.
Key Android 16 Benefits:
- Quick system processing.
- Optimized battery usage
- Better management of the background tasks.
- Better app compatibility
- New services on Google Play system.
There is faster application loading time, maximized usage of RAM and the phone is cooler to use when in load.
New Features & Settings You Will Actually Use
Nothing OS 4.0 introduces more realistic improvements that can enhance everyday functionality.
Top New Features:
- Darker dark mode with darker blacks.
- Pocket Mode to prevent accidental touches.
- Privatize apps by turning their drawer icons off.
- Additional lock screen clock designs.
- Smarter volume controls
- New camera improvements such as HDR modifications.
Such minor improvements as a superior haptics on the keyboard and finer tap-feedback do improve the user experience.
Performance & Battery Life: Better Stability Across Devices
With Android 16 optimizations and software optimization efforts in the hands of Nothing, there is a discernible overall better performance at Nothing OS 4.0.
Improvements Noticed:
- Better RAM allocation
- Less stuttering in games
- Better thermal control.
- Longer battery life.
- Faster charging response
Most users have seen their battery life increase by 5-10% depending on the way they use the device.
Privacy & Security Improvements
Android 16 is on the bottom, and Nothing OS 4.0 is much more controversial concerning privacy settings.
What’s New:
- Extensive logs on the permission of apps.
- Greater location permission control.
- Mic/camera one time access.
- Better on-board AI safety management.
- Improved anti-tracking software.
The changes provide the users with increased control over their data and transparency.
Should You Upgrade Immediately?
To the average user, yes -it is worth upgrading to Nothing OS 4.0. The update is stable, full of features and is created with the aim of enhancing the appearance and performance of your device.
Final Verdict: A Smooth, Adult and Beyond Luxury Upgrade
Nothing OS 4.0 seems to be the most complete software release by Nothing to date. Having a less cluttered UI, smarter Glyphs, enhanced performance, and the stability of Android 16, it improves the whole user experience. This update is not only recommended to most of the users but it is nearly imperative.
Disclaimer
The current review is premised on the initial rollout news and user feedback. Some features and performance can be different depending on model and region of device.