Introduction: Why This Update Matters
Software updates are no longer just about new icons or small fixes. For smartphone users in India and the USA, major OS updates decide how long a device stays fast, secure, and relevant. CMF by Nothing has now started rolling out Nothing OS 4.0, based on Android 16, for CMF Phone 1 and CMF Phone 2 Pro users in India.
This update is important because it shows how serious Nothing is about long-term software support, user experience, and performance—especially in the competitive mid-range smartphone market where brands like Xiaomi, Samsung, and Realme dominate.
What Is Nothing OS 4.0?
Nothing OS 4.0 is the latest custom Android skin from Nothing, built on Android 16. Unlike heavily modified Android skins, Nothing OS focuses on simplicity, smooth animations, and clean design.
Instead of adding unnecessary features, Nothing OS 4.0 refines the everyday experience—how the phone looks, feels, and responds during regular use like notifications, multitasking, and dark mode usage.
Which CMF Phones Are Getting the Update?
Supported Devices
- CMF Phone 1 – Update rollout has already started
- CMF Phone 2 Pro – Rollout expected in early January 2026
The update is being released in phases. This is a standard approach used by most brands to monitor performance and avoid widespread bugs.
What’s New in Nothing OS 4.0?
Refined Interface for Daily Use
Nothing OS 4.0 focuses heavily on visual clarity. The system icons, status bar indicators, and quick settings panel have been redesigned to look cleaner and less cluttered. The goal is not to impress with flashy visuals but to reduce eye strain and improve usability over long hours.
Lock screen clock styles are also refreshed, giving users more personalization without overwhelming choices.
Extra Dark Mode: More Than Just Looks
One of the standout changes is Extra Dark Mode. This is not just a darker theme but a smarter one. Blacks are deeper, contrast is improved, and readability is better across notifications, app drawer, and quick settings.
In real-world use, this means:
- Better battery efficiency on OLED displays
- Reduced eye fatigue during night usage
- Consistent dark mode across Nothing’s own apps
Compared to standard dark modes from brands like Xiaomi’s MIUI or Realme UI, Nothing’s approach feels more balanced and less aggressive on colors.
How Multitasking Has Improved
Smarter Pop-Up View
Nothing OS 4.0 improves floating window multitasking. Users can now switch between two pop-up apps more smoothly using gestures. This is especially useful for tasks like replying to messages while watching videos or browsing.
While Samsung still leads with advanced split-screen tools, Nothing’s implementation feels lighter and faster, especially on mid-range hardware.
More Control With Hidden Apps
Privacy-focused users will appreciate the ability to hide apps from the app drawer. Unlike third-party launchers, this feature is built directly into the system, making it more secure and seamless.
This is useful for:
- Banking or finance apps
- Work-related apps
- Reducing clutter in the app drawer
Widgets and Customisation: Small but Meaningful
Nothing OS 4.0 introduces new widget sizes, including 1×1 and 2×1 formats for apps like Weather, Pedometer, and Screen Time.
Instead of flashy widget packs, Nothing focuses on practical information density. Users can fit more useful data on the home screen without sacrificing minimal design.
Performance, Animations, and Haptics
Smoother Than Before
System animations now feel more natural, with subtle background scaling when opening or closing apps. Gestures feel more responsive, making the phone feel faster even without hardware upgrades.
Better Haptic Feedback
Nothing has improved vibration feedback, especially at volume limits. These small touches add to the premium feel and improve accessibility.
Android 16: The Bigger Upgrade
Beyond visual changes, Nothing OS 4.0 brings all the core benefits of Android 16, including:
- Improved security patches
- Better background app management
- Performance optimizations
- Platform-level efficiency improvements
For CMF users, this confirms that Nothing is serious about keeping devices updated—not something always guaranteed in this price segment.
How Does It Compare With Competitors?
In the mid-range market:
- Samsung One UI offers more features but feels heavier
- Xiaomi HyperOS focuses on customization but includes bloatware
- Realme UI prioritizes features but lacks design consistency
Nothing OS 4.0 stands out by offering:
- Cleaner interface
- Faster animations
- Minimal pre-installed apps
- Consistent design language
This makes it ideal for users who value smoothness over gimmicks.
Pros and Cons of Nothing OS 4.0
Pros
- Clean and refined UI
- Excellent dark mode implementation
- Smooth animations and gestures
- Useful multitasking improvements
- Android 16 upgrade adds long-term value
Cons
- Fewer advanced features than Samsung One UI
- Limited customization compared to Xiaomi
- Rollout is phased, not instant for all users
Who Should Care About This Update?
- Existing CMF users who want better performance and battery efficiency
- Minimalist Android users tired of cluttered interfaces
- Privacy-conscious users who value hidden apps and system-level controls
- Buyers considering CMF phones, as long-term software support is now proven
Conclusion: Expert Opinion
Nothing OS 4.0 is not about dramatic changes—it’s about maturity. CMF by Nothing is slowly building a reputation for reliable software support, clean design, and user-first thinking.
For CMF Phone 1 and Phone 2 Pro users, this update significantly improves daily usability without compromising performance. In a market filled with over-customized Android skins, Nothing OS 4.0 feels refreshingly focused.
If Nothing continues this approach, it could become one of the most trusted Android software experiences in the mid-range segment.
Read more: Oppo Reno 15 Series India Launch: Price, Features, Pro Mini, and What Makes It a Premium Upgrade
FAQs
1. Is Nothing OS 4.0 available for all CMF phones in India?
Currently, CMF Phone 1 users are receiving the update first, while CMF Phone 2 Pro users will get it in early January 2026.
2. Is Nothing OS 4.0 based on Android 16?
Yes, Nothing OS 4.0 is built on Android 16 and includes all major platform improvements and security updates.
3. Does Extra Dark Mode improve battery life?
Yes, especially on OLED displays, as deeper blacks reduce power consumption during night usage.
4. Can users hide apps in Nothing OS 4.0?
Yes, users can now hide selected apps directly from the app drawer without using third-party launchers.
5. How long will the rollout take?
The rollout is phased and may take several days depending on region and device batch.