Nothing OS 5.0 Based on Android 17: Rollout Schedule and Massive Overhaul

Nothing has unveiled Nothing OS 5.0, a massive system update based on Android 17. Owners of Nothing smartphones will get first access to the new features through an open beta program.

Nothing OS 5.0 Release Schedule

The open beta is scheduled to launch on August 26 at 11:00 AM BST (1:00 PM Kyiv time).

The firmware will initially be exclusive to the Nothing Phone (3). Support for additional models will roll out over the coming months:

• Early September: Nothing Phone (4a) Pro
• Late September: Phone (4a), Phone (3a), and (3a) Pro
• Mid-October: Phone (2a) and (2a) Plus
• Mid-December: Phone (4b)

Notably, the Phone (3a) Lite and CMF Phone 2 Pro are not included in the open beta program.

Stable Release Dates

The full public rollout of Nothing OS 5.0 will take place in several stages:

• Mid-October: Nothing Phone (3)
• Early November: Phone (4a), (4a) Pro, (3a), and (3a) Pro
• Mid-November: Phone (2a) and (2a) Plus
• Late December: Phone (3a) Lite
• Mid-January (next year): Phone (4b) and CMF Phone 2 Pro

What’s New in Nothing OS 5.0

The changelog for version 5.0 is truly massive, with a primary focus on visual design and user experience.

Key Update Features:

• Visual overhaul, including a new system font.
• Completely redesigned Settings menu and optimized status bar.
• Functionality: Simplified QR code scanning directly from the camera app and new sorting options in the Gallery.
• Lock screen and themes: A new home screen with transparent background widgets, additional color tints for icons, and new clock faces.
• System improvements: Dedicated Glyph app, faster Bluetooth management, Essential Voice technology, and the development of Essential Space via Essential Apps Builder.
• Interface: Separated notifications and quick settings, improved Quick Share, higher-quality screen recording, and live updates in the status bar.
• Animations: Reworked animation system and optimized Recent Apps section.