Nothing Phone 3a Series Receives Android 16 Beta Update: Features, Installation Guide & Early Impressions

Nothing Phone 3a Android 16 Beta Update: Everything You Need to Know

The Nothing Phone 3a has officially joined the ranks of devices receiving the highly anticipated Android 16 Beta update, which is being rolled out via the brand-new Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta program. This development marks a significant milestone for tech enthusiasts and early adopters eager to experience cutting-edge features before the stable release.

What’s New in Nothing OS 4.0 Beta?

The Nothing OS 4.0 Open Beta brings a refreshed user experience to the Phone 3a, introducing several standout features designed to elevate everyday usability:

• All-New Icon Design: Nothing’s latest iconography is lighter and more uniform, aligning closely with the brand’s signature dot-matrix aesthetic. This visual upgrade enhances cohesion and readability throughout the interface.

• Stretch Camera Preset: Developed in partnership with renowned photographer Jordan Hemingway, this cinematic camera mode adds deeper shadows and brighter highlights. Users can expect richer, more professional images directly from the default Camera app.

• Lock Glimpse: A customisable lock screen feature that cycles curated wallpapers across nine unique categories. The feature can also display “timely updates” and contextual content, similar to the At a Glance widget. It’s disabled by default, granting users control over their lock screen experience.

• Performance & Stability Updates: General system enhancements include improved lock screen and AOD (Always On Display) responsiveness, optimised brightness controls, and strengthened Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.

How to Join the Android 16 Beta Program for Nothing Phone 3a

Participating in the beta program is straightforward, but some prerequisites and precautions apply:

1. Update Required: Ensure your device is running the latest stable build: Asteroids-V3.2-251013-1406.

2. Download Beta APK: Obtain the Beta Updates Hub APK from official Nothing channels or community posts.

3. Install and Enrol: Install the APK, go to Settings > System > Nothing Beta Hub, and tap “Join Beta.” Then, select “Go to Update” to begin installation.

4. Back Up Your Data: Beta releases may be unstable; backing up all important personal data beforehand is strongly recommended.

The enrolment window is open until November 7, 2025, allowing ample time for interested users to participate.

Early Beta User Experiences and Cautions

While the Android 16 update is a major step forward, several issues are characteristic of early beta builds:

• System Instability: Users have reported occasional bugginess, increased heat generation, and battery drain during initial post-installation indexing. These problems may subside after several days of regular use.

• Pre-installed Apps: The beta includes bundles of pre-installed system apps. While select pre-loaded apps can be removed or disabled, core system elements remain fixed until the stable release.

• Feedback Channels: Users are encouraged to submit bug reports and suggestions through Settings > System > Feedback or engage with the official Nothing community forum.

Final Thoughts

The arrival of Android 16 Beta via Nothing OS 4.0 on the Nothing Phone 3a series gives users a preview of the next generation of mobile UX, advanced camera modes, and more personalized lock screens. With the program running until November 7, 2025, now is an excellent time for tech enthusiasts and loyal fans to jump in, experience new features, and help guide the platform toward a stable release.