Nothing Phone Update Schedule: These Smartphones Are Expected to Receive the Android 17 Update
Nothing, the innovative tech brand known for its distinctive design, is reportedly preparing for its next major software overhaul: Nothing OS 5.0, built upon the foundation of Android 17. This significant update is anticipated to roll out to select Nothing and CMF smartphones by late 2026, aligning with the brand’s established software support policy.
Nothing OS 5.0 and Android 17: What to Expect
Understanding Nothing’s update cadence provides insight into the expected Android 17 timeline. The company began deploying the stable version of Nothing OS 4.0, which is based on Android 16, towards the end of November 2025. This rollout included popular devices such as the Nothing Phone (2a), Phone (2a) Plus, and CMF Phone 2 Pro.
If this historical pattern holds true, we can expect the launch of Nothing OS 5.0 in the fourth quarter of 2026. This timeline is contingent on the broader market stabilization of Android 17, typically following its initial release by Google.
Which Nothing Smartphones Are Expected to Receive the Android 17 Update?
While Nothing has yet to release an official list of devices slated for Nothing OS 5.0, industry observers and community predictions suggest the software will arrive on a range of newer Nothing devices. This comprehensive update is anticipated for the following models:
- Nothing Phone (4a) Pro
- Nothing Phone (4a)
- Nothing Phone (4b)
- Nothing Phone (3)
- Nothing Phone (3a) Pro
- Nothing Phone (3a)
- Nothing Phone (3a) Lite
- Nothing Phone (2a) Plus
- Nothing Phone (2a)
Additionally, the CMF Phone 2 Pro is also expected to receive this update. For the Nothing Phone (2a) and (2a) Plus, Android 17 is projected to be their final major Android version upgrade. Following this, these devices are still expected to receive several years of critical security patches, ensuring their continued usability and protection, even without further major OS version jumps. For more on Nothing’s device strategy, you might find our review of the Nothing Phone (4a) insightful.
Which Models Will Not Be Updated to Nothing OS 5.0?
Older Nothing devices, including the Nothing Phone (1), Nothing Phone (2), and CMF Phone 1, are notably absent from current Nothing OS 5.0 update predictions. According to discussions within the Nothing community, their last significant operating system upgrade is anticipated to be Android 16, delivered via Nothing OS 4.0. These models are still expected to continue receiving security updates for their declared support period, maintaining device security and stability, but without making the leap to Android 17.
Understanding the difference between major OS updates and security patches is crucial. Major OS updates bring new features, user interface changes, and significant performance enhancements. Security patches, on the other hand, address vulnerabilities and improve the overall security posture of the device without altering the core Android version. You can learn more about the upcoming features and general release timeline for Android 17 at Android 17 Features and Release Date.
Official Confirmation and Future Outlook
It’s important to remember that the information presented here is based on current predictions and historical update patterns. Official confirmation regarding compatible models and the precise rollout schedule for Nothing OS 5.0 will only be provided once Nothing formally announces the deployment of Android 17 to its devices. Until then, these insights offer a strong indication of what users can expect.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Nothing OS 5.0, based on Android 17, is anticipated to be released in the fourth quarter of 2026, following the stabilization of Android 17 in the market.
Based on current predictions, older models like the Nothing Phone (1) and Phone (2) are not expected to receive the Nothing OS 5.0 update (Android 17). Their last major OS update is anticipated to be Android 16 (Nothing OS 4.0), though they should continue to receive security patches.
Receiving security patches ensures your device remains protected against newly discovered vulnerabilities and bugs, enhancing its security and stability. However, without major OS updates, your phone will not gain new features, significant user interface changes, or performance improvements that come with newer Android versions. This is a common practice for older devices to extend their lifespan securely.
These predictions are based on Nothing’s past software update patterns and community insights. While they offer a strong indication of what to expect, official confirmation will only come directly from Nothing. It’s advisable to await formal announcements for precise details and timelines, as plans can sometimes change.
Source: TheTechLookout, TechWider, Gizmochina. Opening photo: Nothing / press materials