Nothing Phone (4a) Gets Nothing OS 4.1 Update With AI Eraser and Live Updates

Nothing OS 4.1 Brings Android 16 Integration to Phone (4a) Series

Nothing has launched a comprehensive software update for the Nothing Phone (4a) series, introducing Nothing OS 4.1 with several new features in Nothing OS 4.1 that enhance the user experience. The update, which arrives just as the Nothing Phone (4a) goes on sale and ahead of the Pro model's release, focuses on improving everyday usability, focus, and customization across the system 1

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The most significant addition is Android 16 integration, which enables Live Updates functionality on the device's signature Glyph Bar. This Live Updates integration allows users to track real-time progress for rides, deliveries, navigation, and timers across the Always-on Display, Status Bar, and Lock Screen 2

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. When the Phone (4a) is placed face-down, the Glyph Bar mirrors this information through light patterns, keeping users informed without requiring them to check the actual screen 1

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On-Device AI Eraser Tool Arrives in Nothing Gallery

The software update for the Nothing Phone 4a series introduces a built-in on-device AI Eraser tool within the Nothing Gallery app. This feature allows users to remove unwanted objects from photos with a single tap or through manual selection, with all AI processing happening locally on the device rather than requiring cloud processing or internet access 1

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. This on-device AI processing approach addresses privacy concerns while delivering practical photo editing capabilities directly within the native gallery application.

Relaxation Hub Introduces Digital Well-Being Modes

Nothing OS 4.1 debuts a new Relaxation Hub feature designed to support digital well-being. The hub includes "Breathing Break" widgets with three distinct digital well-being modes: Focus, Relax, and Calm 1

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. These focus modes offer breathing exercises designed to help users reset during the day, with specially-tuned haptic feedback patterns that guide users with their breathing rhythm when they need to destress or refocus during busy periods [2](https://phandroid.com/2026/03/18/nothing-os-rolls-out-several-updates-for the-phone-4a-series/).

Redesigned Essential Apps Drawer Streamlines Customization

The Essential Apps Drawer has received a significant redesign in this update. The new drawer not only displays apps users have installed or are currently using, but also recommends apps from the Nothing Playground without requiring users to leave the homescreen 1

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. This redesigned Essential Apps Drawer makes it easier to access and use Essential Apps—the widgets that can be customized with vibe codes—allowing users to customize their home screens instantly 2

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Enhanced Lock Screen Customization Options

Lock screen customization receives notable attention in Nothing OS 4.1. The update includes the fan-favorite clock face from the Phone (3a) Community Edition, which features an exclusive typeface and custom waking animation 1

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. A new Depth Effect beta has also been added, mimicking how the clock can hide behind wallpaper elements similar to iOS functionality 1

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. Users now have flexible options for clock sizing and alignment as part of the expanded lock screen customization suite 2

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While Nothing OS 4.1 based on Android 16 is launching first on the Nothing Phone (4a) and Phone (4a) Pro, these updates will likely arrive for older devices in the coming weeks 1

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