Nothing’s beta train is moving again: the latest Nothing OS 4.0 beta update introduces optional lock screen ads. If you care about what appears on your display—or you simply don’t want promotional content interrupting your day—your next steps are straightforward.
This guide breaks down what’s likely happening, where the relevant setting usually lives, and what to do when you can’t find the toggle or notice unexpected behavior. It’s written for Nothing Phone owners running Nothing OS 4.0 beta, not for people guessing from screenshots.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What the optional lock screen ads change
The headline change in Nothing OS 4.0 beta is that the lock screen can show ads, but they’re described as optional. In practice, that means there should be a user-facing control to turn them off, or at least a way to reduce/disable the behavior after updating.
Lock screen surfaces are sensitive: the lock screen is where you expect consistent, personal UI (time, notifications, wallpaper). So even “optional” ads are worth reviewing right away so you’re not surprised the first time you wake the device.
#1 Best Overall
- Ultra-high Performance Chipset: This cell phone is equipped with a powerful and efficient Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chip, using 4nm technology and a full-core 3.2GHz CPU, supporting 24GB LPDDR5X memory + UFS 4.0 flash memory, and equipped with an AI engine, with comprehensive performance upgrades.
- Revolutionary 50MP Quad Camera System: This smartphone is equipped with All 50MP four camera system: Including a Main Camera, a Periscope, an Ultra-wide Camera, and a ultra-clear Front Camera; this cell phone support Ultra XDR 4K video, Auto Tone, Portrait Optimiser, Motion Capture Mode, Night Mode; Whether you're a photographer, vlogger, or social media enthusiast, with the pro-grade camera system and AI enhancements, this Nothing phone can ensure every shot is masterpiece-ready.
- One-Touch Control, AI-Powered Organization：ESSENTIAL KEY: A new button on the side of your device.Press once to capture your screen, long-press to record voice and ideas, and double-press to access Essential Space; ESSENTIAL SPACE: Everything in one place, organised the way you want it to be，AI mobile phones helps organise your captures, generating suggestions, and staying on top of what matters; Explore more AI features, Let AI enrich your life
- GLYPH INTERFACE: Where Light Speaks; The Glyph Matrix transforms your phone into an interactive playground—smart animations turn notifications, tools, and games into living light experiences; NFC: An animation comes to life when NFC is triggered; Glyph Button: Quick-tap to browse Glyph Toys, long-press to launch—from utilities to games; Smarter Alerts: Notifications now speak in light and sound, blending visuals with meaning; Beyond illumination; This is interaction, redefined.
- Larger and Brighter FHD Display: 6.67" FHD+ 1.5K AMOLED flex screen with 1.07B colors & 120Hz adaptive refresh for ultra-smooth visuals; Vs Nothing Phone (2)/(3a): Phone (3) boasts 181.2% brighter (4500 nits), 16.7% sharper (460 PPI), and 316% faster touch response (1000Hz); IP68-rated—tough enough for any adventure.
Who should care (and who might not)
This matters most if you:
- Use your phone’s lock screen as a privacy boundary (you keep notifications minimal).
- Share your device frequently or check your phone on the go where others may glance at the screen.
- Prefer a clean lock screen with no promotional modules.
- Rely on gestures, widgets, or notification layouts that could be affected by lock screen changes.
If you’re the type who doesn’t look at promotional content and you already disable most notification extras, the impact might feel small. Still, the setting is worth confirming because beta builds can vary by device and rollout stage.
Prerequisites before you update to the beta
Before you install the latest Nothing OS 4.0 beta, do a quick safety checklist. Betas are typically stable, but point releases still happen.
- Battery: Keep at least 50% charge (higher is better for updates that pull large OTA packages).
- Backup: If you have important photos, messages, or authenticator apps, ensure they’re backed up.
- Storage: Make sure you have a few GB free—OTA updates can require extra temporary space during installation.
- Readiness: If you rely on the device for work, plan the update when you can reboot and test for 10–15 minutes afterward.
How to update to the latest Nothing OS 4.0 beta
OTA beta updates usually follow the same path across Nothing devices: Settings → System → Software update. The exact menu names can shift slightly between releases, but the workflow is consistent.
- Open Settings.
- Go to System.
- Select Software update (or System updates, depending on your build).
- Check for an update and confirm the beta notification if it’s offered.
- Download, then install when prompted. Let the phone reboot normally.
After the update, don’t judge the lock screen ads instantly. Some lock-screen modules only appear after a refresh or after you unlock a couple of times.
How to check whether lock screen ads are enabled
The most important part is confirming the current state. Depending on Nothing OS 4.0’s beta implementation, you may see the setting in a lock-screen or personalization area—or under privacy/ad preferences.
Rank #2
- Google Pixel 10a is a durable, everyday phone with more[1]; snap brilliant photography on a simple, powerful camera, get 30+ hours out of a full charge[2], and do more with helpful AI like Gemini[3]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel 10a is sleek and durable, with a super smooth finish, scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 7i display, and IP68 water and dust protection[4]
- The Actua display with 3,000-nit peak brightness shows up clear as day, even in direct sunlight[5]
- Plan, create, and get more done with help from Gemini, your built-in AI assistant[3]; have it screen spam calls while you focus[6]; chat with Gemini to brainstorm your meal plan[7], or bring your ideas to life with Nano Banana[8]
- Open Settings.
- Look for one of these categories (names vary by build): Lock screen, Personalization, Notifications, or Privacy.
- Search within Settings for a keyword like ad, ads, promotions, or lock screen.
- If you see an option related to lock screen content, check its current toggle state.
If you don’t find anything immediately, check after a device restart. Some beta builds register the setting after the first post-install boot.
How to disable lock screen ads (if the toggle is available)
When ads are truly optional, there’s usually a simple switch. Your goal is to find the exact toggle and turn it off.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →- Go to Settings.
- Open the relevant page (commonly Lock screen or Personalization).
- Find a setting that mentions ads or promotional content.
- Turn the switch Off.
- Unlock the device a few times normally to confirm the lock screen no longer shows the ad module.
If the feature is implemented through a “content recommendations” category, the toggle might be worded like “Suggestions” rather than “Ads.” The keyword search step is what saves time.
Privacy and data-handling questions to verify
Even when content is optional, it’s reasonable to ask what is being used to decide what you see. Nothing’s public documentation varies by beta cycle, but you can still check what Android and Nothing expose.
Review these areas after updating:
- Settings > Privacy (or a similarly named section): look for ad personalization, user choice, and marketing consent options.
- App permissions: confirm nothing looks unusually permission-heavy for a lock screen feature.
- Account & sync: if the device links to a Nothing account, check whether any marketing toggles exist there.
- Advertising ID (Android-level): verify whether ad personalization is limited on your device.
Android’s advertising choices and app-level controls are separate from lock-screen UI. If you only disable ads at the lock screen but leave ad personalization on globally, you might still get other forms of targeted content elsewhere.
Rank #3
- [Compatibility] Designed for Nothing Phone 3a / 3a Pro. Designed with thoughtful 2.5D curved edges, compatible with most phone cases. Please kindly check your device model before purchasing
- [Effortless Installation] Comes with an easy installation tool. Allow you to align perfectly and install the screen protector quickly without leaving any air bubbles
- [Anti-Scratch] Built with 9H hardness tempered glass, highly protect the screen against daily scratches, abrasions or other impact caused by accidental drops and bumps
- [Ultra-Clear & Sensitive] Featuring high light transmittance, the screen protector keeps the original quality of photos and videos. Ensure enjoyable viewing and responsive touching experiences as using your bare screen
- [Fingerprint & Oil-Proof] The hydrophobic and oleophobic coating prevents fingerprints, oil residue and sweat from gathering on the screen. Always maintain a clean screen environment for you
If you can’t find the ads toggle: troubleshooting paths
Sometimes the toggle doesn’t show up—either because your specific beta build hasn’t fully rolled out the control, or because the setting lives under a different label.
1) Use Settings Search aggressively
Many Nothing OS 4.0 builds include a search field inside Settings. Try these terms: ads, advertising, promotions, recommendations, and lock screen.
2) Restart after installing the update
After OTA installation, do a full reboot. Some UI modules don’t finalize until the system completes its post-update setup.
3) Confirm the update installed cleanly
Go back to Settings > System > Software update and confirm your phone is on the intended Nothing OS 4.0 beta build. If the update partially applied, you might see mixed behavior.
4) Check for a device-specific limitation
Nothing often stages features by model. For example, Nothing Phone (2) and Nothing Phone (2a) can receive different defaults during beta rollout, even when both report “Nothing OS 4.0 beta.”
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsRank #4
- Transparent Design: Ear (3a) features Nothing's signature technological codes in vibrant new colours. A wider range of ear tips means the buds sit comfortably in everyone's ears, and a new status bar lets you see everything on the case.
- Hi-Res Audio: Ear (3a) delivers stronger sound with a bigger 12 mm driver. Improved wideband Active Noise Cancellation at up to 45 dB lets you ignore the boring things, and Clear Voice Technology means you sound good on calls. On the Nothing app X, you can boost bass, treble and vocals, or use the advanced 8-band EQ.
- Wideband Active Noise Cancellation: Nothing Ear (3a) delivers up to 45dB of Active Noise Cancellation. These Bluetooth wireless earbuds recalibrate every millisecond to block a wide range of noise (up to 5000Hz) for clear audio. Switch to Transparency Mode to stay aware of your surroundings without removing the earbuds. Low Latency mode ensures lag-free gaming.
- Bluetooth 6.0 & Smart AI Features: With Bluetooth 6.0, Ear (3a) stays connected in more places than before. Easy swapping with dual-device connnections compatible with both iOS and Andoid. And with one-touch AI features like ChatGPT and Essential News, you're always ready to go without touching your phone.
- Audio Snapshot and Call Recording: Audio Snapshot and call recording let you save what you hear directly onto Ear (3a). You can record up to a minute of media or up to two hours of calls and meetings. With the Nothing X app, you can sort and transcribe using AI. With Pro Transcription, you can also identify speakers, get reminders and send quotes to your friends. Note: Call recording is available only in supported countries/regions due to local regulations. For the current list of supported countries/regions, please refer to the Product Description.
5) Reduce lock screen content as a fallback
If the ad module is tied to lock screen recommendations, minimizing lock screen content (widgets, notifications previews, and personalization features) can reduce what appears—even if the exact ad toggle isn’t exposed yet.
Common gotchas (and how to avoid them)
Lock screen features are easy to misinterpret. Here are the patterns users commonly hit.
- You disable the toggle but the ad appears once more: Some systems cache lock screen content. Give it a reboot or unlock cycle to confirm.
- You’re looking at the wrong lock screen view: Some phones show different content on wake vs. after unlock. Check both states.
- Battery Saver changes behavior: Power modes can alter background syncing that refreshes lock screen modules.
- Third-party lock screen apps: If you’re using a launcher or lock screen customization tool, it may conflict with Nothing’s UI controls.
- Multiple profiles (work/personal): If your phone has separate profiles or work profile settings, the lock screen may follow a different rule set.
Alternatives if you want zero lock screen personalization
If your goal is “no promotional modules, ever,” don’t only search for the ad toggle. Adjust lock screen presentation so even legitimate recommendations can’t intrude.
Try these options (names vary by build):
- Disable lock screen suggestions/recommendations (if present).
- Reduce notification preview content so nothing extra appears on the lock screen.
- Turn off lock screen widgets that populate dynamically.
- Limit background activity for apps that aren’t needed (use Android battery settings).
This won’t always eliminate ads if the ad module is system-level, but it’s the safest approach when a beta build’s ad settings are incomplete.
What to do if the update doesn’t behave correctly
Beta instability usually shows up as UI glitches: flickering ads, toggles that revert, or lock screen layout changes that don’t stick.
Best Value
- Ultra-high Performance Chipset: This cell phone is equipped with a powerful and efficient Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chip, using 4nm technology and a full-core 3.2GHz CPU, supporting 24GB LPDDR5X memory + UFS 4.0 flash memory, and equipped with an AI engine, with comprehensive performance upgrades.
- Revolutionary 50MP Quad Camera System: This smartphone is equipped with All 50MP four camera system: Including a Main Camera, a Periscope, an Ultra-wide Camera, and a ultra-clear Front Camera; this cell phone support Ultra XDR 4K video, Auto Tone, Portrait Optimiser, Motion Capture Mode, Night Mode; Whether you're a photographer, vlogger, or social media enthusiast, with the pro-grade camera system and AI enhancements, this Nothing phone can ensure every shot is masterpiece-ready.
- One-Touch Control, AI-Powered Organization：ESSENTIAL KEY: A new button on the side of your device.Press once to capture your screen, long-press to record voice and ideas, and double-press to access Essential Space; ESSENTIAL SPACE: Everything in one place, organised the way you want it to be，AI mobile phones helps organise your captures, generating suggestions, and staying on top of what matters; Explore more AI features, Let AI enrich your life
- GLYPH INTERFACE: Where Light Speaks; The Glyph Matrix transforms your phone into an interactive playground—smart animations turn notifications, tools, and games into living light experiences; NFC: An animation comes to life when NFC is triggered; Glyph Button: Quick-tap to browse Glyph Toys, long-press to launch—from utilities to games; Smarter Alerts: Notifications now speak in light and sound, blending visuals with meaning; Beyond illumination; This is interaction, redefined.
- Larger and Brighter FHD Display: 6.67" FHD+ 1.5K AMOLED flex screen with 1.07B colors & 120Hz adaptive refresh for ultra-smooth visuals; Vs Nothing Phone (2)/(3a): Phone (3) boasts 181.2% brighter (4500 nits), 16.7% sharper (460 PPI), and 316% faster touch response (1000Hz); IP68-rated—tough enough for any adventure.
Step-by-step recovery checklist
- Reboot once (simple fixes a surprising number of UI-state issues).
- Go to Settings > Apps (or Apps & notifications).
- Find the system component related to lock screen or recommendations (if you see a candidate).
- Clear cache (not data) for that component if available. This often resets UI state without breaking settings.
- If toggles keep reverting, wait for the next beta patch. Feature toggles sometimes get corrected in follow-up builds.
If you’re seeing persistent unwanted content and your device allows it, consider reporting the issue in Nothing’s beta feedback channel so the team can confirm the toggle isn’t taking effect.
FAQs
Are the lock screen ads guaranteed to appear on every Nothing OS 4.0 beta phone?
No. Beta rollouts can be staged by device and region, and the feature is described as optional, which implies a user control should exist for opt-out.
Can I turn them off permanently?
If the toggle is present in your build, turning it off should persist across reboots. If it re-enables after some time, that typically points to a beta bug or cached lock screen content—restart and re-check, then wait for the next OTA fix.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWill disabling lock screen ads affect notification badges or wallpaper?
It should only affect the specific lock screen promotional module (not your notification system). If you notice unrelated changes, confirm whether you updated other settings during the same period (battery mode, do-not-disturb rules, notification preview settings).
Should I avoid installing the Nothing OS 4.0 beta because of ads?
That depends on your tolerance. If you’re able to disable the feature and the rest of the beta works reliably, it may be fine. If you can’t find the opt-out setting on your device, it’s reasonable to wait for a beta patch that exposes or fixes the control.
Bottom Line
Nothing OS 4.0 beta’s optional lock screen ads are a meaningful UI change—but they shouldn’t be a forced one. Update carefully, check the lock screen/personalization or privacy controls right after installation, and disable the feature if your build provides a toggle.
If you can’t find the setting or the behavior persists, use the troubleshooting steps above (search in Settings, reboot, verify your exact beta build, and reduce lock screen content as a fallback) while waiting for the next OTA stabilization.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
