Nothing OS 4.0 arrives on CMF phones, bringing Android 16 and smarter features: All you need to know

A refined interface

Built on Android 16, Nothing OS 4.0 focuses heavily on refinement rather than reinvention. The update introduces a cleaner and more balanced interface, with refreshed system icons, redesigned status indicators and a simplified Quick Settings layout. These changes aim to make everyday interactions feel calmer, clearer and more intuitive.

Darker and smarter mode

One of the standout additions is the enhanced Extra Dark Mode. This refined version deepens blacks, improves contrast and reduces power consumption, while also improving readability across notifications, Quick Settings and the app drawer. Support has also been extended to first-party apps such as Essential Space.

Customisation with widgets and layouts

Nothing OS 4.0 expands customisation options with new widget sizes, including 1×1 and 2×1 formats for apps like Weather, Pedometer and Screen Time. These additions give users more freedom to design compact, information-rich home screens.

Smarter multitasking

Multitasking sees a notable upgrade with improved pop-up view functionality. Users can now run and switch between two floating apps more fluidly using simple swipe gestures. Meanwhile, a new hidden apps feature allows users to keep selected apps out of the app drawer while still maintaining quick access when needed.

Smoother animations and enhanced feedback

System animations have been refined throughout the interface, delivering smoother transitions, more responsive gestures and a greater sense of depth. App opening and closing animations now include subtle background scaling, helping create a more connected visual flow. Haptic feedback has also been enhanced, with gentle vibrations at minimum and maximum volume levels for better tactile awareness.

Android 16 upgrade for CMF devices

Beyond visual and functional improvements, Nothing OS 4.0 also marks a major Android version upgrade, moving CMF devices from Android 15 to Android 16. This brings the latest security updates, performance optimisations and platform-level enhancements.

Rollout timeline

The update is being released in stages. CMF Phone 1 users are the first to receive Nothing OS 4.0, while the CMF Phone 2 Pro is scheduled to follow in early January. Users can expect the update to arrive automatically via OTA over the coming days.

Key Takeaways

• Users can expect improved multitasking with new pop-up view functionality.
• Nothing OS 4.0 introduces a cleaner interface with enhanced visual elements.
• The update marks a significant upgrade from Android 15 to Android 16, bringing security and performance enhancements.