Nothing OS 5.0, built on Android 17, started reaching phones in October and the rollout continues into 2027. If you own a Nothing or CMF phone and want to know when it is your turn, this is the schedule as reported by 9to5Google on October 12, along with the features Nothing has highlighted.
Reported rollout schedule
Nothing said the rollout remains on its original timeline, with stable releases through mid-January 2027:
- Phone (3): October 12
- Phone (4a) and Phone (4a) Pro: early November
- Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro: early November
- Phone (2a) and Phone (2a) Plus: mid-November
- Phone (3a) Lite: late December
- Phone (4b) and CMF Phone 2 Pro: mid-January
Nothing has also said the update will expand to other devices in the coming months. As with every staged rollout, "early November" does not mean everyone gets it on the same day.
What Nothing says is new
Nothing's description of the update mentions a redesigned launcher, Micrographics clock face and a refreshed design system, along with deeper personalisation, smoother performance, improved Essential AI tools and the best of Android 17. Those are the company's own highlights, so independent hands-on reviews are the better guide to how much they change daily use.
How to install it
- Open Settings, then System, then System update.
- Tap Check for update and download over Wi-Fi.
- Keep the phone charged and avoid interrupting the install.
Phones that will not get it
Coverage of the announcement says the Nothing Phone (1), Phone (2) and CMF Phone 1 have reached the end of their promised software update windows and will not receive Nothing OS 5.0. If you own one, check Nothing's support page for the security-patch policy of your model before deciding whether to keep it.
Preparing for the update
- Back up photos and app data first.
- Update installed apps before and after the OS update.
- If you customise Glyph or widget layouts, take screenshots so you can restore them.
- Report bugs through Nothing's feedback channels; early builds benefit from clear reports.
Developers can read how Android 17 changes app behaviour in our Android 17 guide.
Frequently asked questions
When does Nothing Phone (3a) get Nothing OS 5.0?
The reported schedule lists Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro for early November 2026. Staged rollouts mean the exact day varies.
Is Nothing OS 5.0 based on Android 17?
Yes. Nothing describes Nothing OS 5.0 as built on Android 17.
How do I update my Nothing phone?
Go to Settings, System, System update, then check for the update and download it over Wi-Fi.
Which Nothing phones are not getting the update?
Reporting says Nothing Phone (1), Phone (2) and CMF Phone 1 are past their promised update windows and will not receive Nothing OS 5.0.
Sources and further reading
- 9to5Google: Nothing starts stable Android 17 rollout to Phone (3)
- Android Authority: Nothing OS 5.0
- TechRepublic: Nothing OS 5 rollout and eligible phones
Facts in this article reflect public reporting as of November 7, 2026. Details such as dates, prices and rollout lists can change, so check the official source before you act on them.