British tech brand Nothing has officially launched its Nothing OS 3.0, based on Android 15, introducing a range of exciting features for Nothing Phone 2 and Phone 2a users. The latest update brings a host of new functionalities, including a native gallery app, enhanced widgets, and an AI-powered Smart Drawer for better app organization. Here’s everything you need to know about Nothing OS 3.0 and its availability.
Nothing OS 3.0: Availability and Rollout
Following successful beta testing, Nothing OS 3.0 has now been rolled out for the Nothing Phone 2 and Phone 2a. The update is being distributed gradually, with all users set to receive it in the coming days. Nothing has also revealed plans to extend this update to other devices such as the Nothing Phone 1, Phone 2a Plus, and CMF Phone 1 in early 2025.
New Features in Nothing OS 3.0
The Nothing OS 3.0 update brings several new features to enhance the user experience:
1. Shared Widgets
One of the standout features in Nothing OS 3.0 is Shared Widgets. This allows users to share and interact with widgets from another person’s device directly on their own home screen. Initially, this feature supports Photo Widgets in a square format, but Nothing plans to expand support to other widget types in the future.
2. Native Gallery App
With the update, Nothing introduces a dedicated Gallery app that enhances photo management. The app now includes advanced search options, improved editing tools, and automated suggestions for better photo organization. Features such as filters, markup options, and the ability to organize images intuitively make this gallery app a significant upgrade.
3. Enhanced Lock Screen Customization
Lock screen personalization has also been expanded. Users can now customize the lock screen with new clock faces and widgets, giving them instant access to more information. This feature is accessible via a long press, making lock screen tweaks easier than ever before.
4. Productivity Widgets
New utility-focused widgets have been introduced to improve productivity. One such widget is the Countdown Widget, which helps users track important events. This widget will be available on the Nothing Widgets app via Google Play later this month.
5. AI-Powered Smart Drawer
The Smart Drawer utilizes AI to automatically categorize apps into folders, offering better organization and faster access. Users can pin their favorite apps at the top of the drawer for quick launch, improving overall app management.
6. Quick Settings Overhaul
The Quick Settings menu has received a redesign, offering a more user-friendly layout and updated visuals. The changes in sections like Network & Internet and Bluetooth improve usability and make navigating through settings smoother.
7. Camera Updates
The camera system has been optimized for a better user experience. With faster widget-based access, improved portrait effects, and enhanced low-light performance, the update ensures better results. The HDR processing time has been reduced, and a redesigned zoom slider offers smoother operation for zoomed-in shots.
8. Improved Pop-up View for Multitasking
Nothing OS 3.0 brings an upgraded Pop-up View, making multitasking more seamless. Users can now resize pop-up windows by dragging the bottom corners and pinning them to the edge of the screen. Notifications can be previewed without leaving the current app, further improving the multitasking experience.
How to Get the Nothing OS 3.0 Update
The Nothing OS 3.0 update is rolling out gradually for the Nothing Phone 2 and Phone 2a. Users can check for the update under Settings > System > Software Update. As mentioned earlier, the update will be extended to more Nothing devices in early 2025.
Final Thoughts on Nothing OS 3.0
With Nothing OS 3.0, the brand continues to focus on user experience and productivity, offering new features that improve both functionality and aesthetics. From AI-powered features like the Smart Drawer to the new gallery app and enhanced lock screen options, the update enhances the overall usability of Nothing smartphones. If you’re a Nothing Phone 2 or Phone 2a user, the update brings plenty of exciting changes to explore.
