Nothing Phone (3) gets new software update

Owners of the Nothing Phone (3) can now install Nothing OS 5.0, the latest software update for the device, which was announced on August 25. This update marks the most significant software change for the brand so far and is based on Android 17.

Update includes AI and design improvements

Nothing OS 5.0 includes over 80 improvements, categorized into four areas: design, personalization, performance, and artificial intelligence. The update affects both the phone’s user interface and its AI tools, with changes aimed at enhancing user experience and functionality.

Update rollout plan for other models

The update is currently available only for the Nothing Phone (3). Other Nothing smartphones and models from its sub-brand, CMF, will receive the update in the coming months. A model-by-model schedule has been published, with the Phone (4a) and (4a) Pro expected to get the update in early November.

Update size varies depending on beta participation

The update weighs approximately 2.84 GB for devices not enrolled in the beta testing program and 1.68 GB for those that were. Three new features are not included in the beta version, meaning the public release includes changes that beta testers had not yet experienced.

New features include redesigned home screen and AI tools

The most visible change is the redesigned home screen, which includes transparency effects and adaptive colors. The lock screen now features a new dial called Micrographics, which displays the date, time, weather, and upcoming calendar events. AI tools like Essential Space also see improvements.

Additional design and personalization changes

Nothing OS 5.0 introduces a new font, Geist, for all text. Two new widgets, Collector and Away Time, are added, and users can now move multiple widgets at once, similar to application icons. These changes focus on improving personalization and usability.

AI features and Android 17 enhancements

The update includes faster Essential Voice, a new AI feature called Smart Collections, and the ability to build apps directly on the phone using Essential Apps Builder. Android 17 also adds features like a separable notifications and quick settings panel, improved privacy indicators, and a redesigned recent applications screen.

Some models will not receive the update

Three models—the Nothing Phone (1), Phone (2), and CMF Phone 1—will not be upgraded to Nothing OS 5.0 or Android 17. These devices will remain on older software versions and will not receive the new features included in the update.