Nothing OS 5.0, the company’s new software based on Android 17, started rolling out to the Nothing Phone (3) on October 12, 2026. It is the first Nothing phone to get it, according to 9to5Google.
What is new?
- A redesigned launcher and a refreshed Settings design
- A new typeface called Geist and smoother animations
- Two more lock-screen clocks and more ways to personalise the phone
- A translucent, frosted-glass look
Nothing says the update has more than 80 changes across design, personalisation, AI tools and performance. From Android 17, reports also mention separate panels for notifications and quick settings, stronger privacy controls and a redesigned Recents screen, as listed by Droid Life.
How to check for the update
- Open Settings.
- Go to System, then System update.
- Download and install if it is available.
The rollout is in stages, so it may reach your phone later than someone else’s. Phone (3) owners do not need to join the beta. Reported download sizes differ, from about 1.7 GB for beta users to about 2.8 GB for others.
Which phones are next?
Reports say other Nothing and CMF phones will follow in the coming months, but dates are not fully confirmed. One outlet says the Phone (4a) and Phone (3a) series are due in November. The Phone (1), Phone (2) and CMF Phone 1 are not on the list for this update.
Before you update: back up your data, connect to Wi-Fi and keep the battery charged.
Questions to think about
- How important are software updates when you choose a new phone?
- Do you prefer a simple look or lots of customisation on your phone?
- Should older phones keep getting major updates for longer?
Sources: 9to5Google, Droid Life, Android Authority and PhoneArena, as of October 13, 2026.
