In a significant software upgrade, Nothing has begun rolling out its latest operating system, NothingOS 4.0, to the Nothing Phone (3a) and Nothing Phone (3a Pro). The update, which started appearing for users on December 1, 2025, brings a host of new features aimed at improving user experience, with a special focus on battery efficiency and visual comfort.
What's New in NothingOS 4.0?
The headline feature of this update is the introduction of an 'Extra Dark Mode'. This new mode is engineered with a dual purpose. Primarily, it is designed to save power on devices with OLED displays, like the Phone 3a series, by making dark areas even darker. Secondly, it aims to lessen eye strain for users who operate their phones in low-light conditions, providing a more comfortable viewing experience during night-time use.
Availability and Rollout Details
The update is currently being distributed over-the-air (OTA) to eligible devices. Owners of the Nothing Phone (3a) and the Nothing Phone (3a Pro) should check their system settings for the update. As with most staged rollouts, it may take a few days to reach all units globally. The update signifies Nothing's continued commitment to supporting its recent smartphone lineup with timely software enhancements.
Why This Update Matters
For users of the mid-range Phone 3a series, the NothingOS 4.0 update represents a valuable improvement. The new Extra Dark Mode directly addresses common user concerns about battery longevity and eye comfort. By optimizing software to work in harmony with the hardware's OLED display, Nothing is extracting additional value for its customers, potentially extending daily battery life and making the device more pleasant to use in various lighting environments.
This move also keeps the devices competitive in the fast-paced Android smartphone market, where regular software support is a key differentiator for consumers. The update reinforces Nothing's strategy of building a cohesive ecosystem around its unique software skin.
