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Nothing Extends OS 4.0 Beta to Phone 3a as Optional Lock Screen Content Draws Scrutiny

The optional Lock Glimpse feature signals a shift toward software revenue on non‑flagship phones via third‑party content.

Overview

  • Nothing released the Android 16–based Nothing OS 4.0 open beta for the Phone 3a and 3a Pro with a refreshed UI.
  • A new lock‑screen tool called Lock Glimpse rotates curated wallpapers with links to articles, and it is disabled by default but can be enabled in Settings.
  • Users and reports have identified Bouyan in the feature’s settings as the external provider, suggesting a Glance‑style content model with ad‑like behavior.
  • Nothing says it plans to include carefully selected third‑party apps and services on non‑flagship devices to build software revenue and states no personal data is shared.
  • The beta also adds a Stretch camera preset developed with photographer Jordan Hemingway, enrollment is open through November 7, and test builds may be unstable.