Nothing has unveiled its new operating skin, the Nothing OS 5.0, based on Android 17 for users around the world.
The London based tech company said that it is based on “the principle of pure Android, offering more control, personalisation and fun.”
On-device intelligence learns which apps are used most and keeps them ready to launch, while overnight maintenance optimises memory to help sustain performance over time. System animations have been expanded and refined across apps, folders, widgets, multitasking and shortcuts. Bluetooth controls have been redesigned in Quick Settings, making it easier to find, connect and disconnect nearby devices in fewer taps. The camera also keeps detected QR codes fixed on screen, making them easier to tap without rescanning.
Nothing OS 5.0 also claims to improve touch response, background app retention and system resource management, helping prioritise the app in use and reduce interruptions when memory is under pressure.
Two new lock screen clock faces arrive with this release: Gooey and Micrographics, a hardware-inspired design that surfaces the date, time, weather and upcoming meetings at a glance. Clock face colours can now be customised to match a user’s wallpaper.
The status bar, Settings, Camera and Gallery have all been refreshed with updated icons, spacing and animations. New privacy enhancements now show when an app is using the camera, microphone or location, alongside clearer screen recording controls and updated location permission settings. The widgets and the search bar will use transparent details, and Gallery as well for a consistent look. The Gallery also has new sorting options and a redesigned album view to help people find photos faster. Essential Apps Builder will be available as an app on the phone, letting you describe, build and deploy AI-powered apps directly from your device without coding, then use them straight from your home screen. Additional refinements include Noto 3D emojis, expanded Dark Theme support, separate Assistant volume control, higher-brightness HDR viewing and a redesigned Recents screen.
Nothing OS 5.0 will have a redesigned home screen, available as an additional theme alongside the existing Nothing OS style.
Away Time, tracks how long a person has stayed off their phone, their longest break and how their screen-free time changes across the week. Nothing OS 5.0 will bring new widgets: Collector, which lets users build a growing visual collection of favourite objects captured via Camera or Gallery and display it on their home screen and lock screen.
