GoKawiilCarl Pei acknowledges Nothing overreached on bloatware, update policy
In a Reddit AMA, Nothing CEO Carl Pei addressed criticism over the Phone 2's software support and monetization practices. He confirmed the Phone 2 will stop receiving major Android updates after Android 16, saying its aging chipset and kernel can't support Android 17, but insisted the company met its original promise of three major OS updates. Pei also conceded that pre-installed apps and games on Nothing devices have gone too far and need rebalancing.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The candid admissions highlight tension between Nothing's identity as a design-forward challenger brand and the commercial pressures of scaling in competitive markets like the US. Pei's willingness to admit missteps on bloatware and updates suggests the company is trying to protect its community-driven reputation as it pursues growth and new product lines.
- Nothing Phone 2 will not receive Android 17, ending at Android 16 per its original three-update pledge.
- Pei admitted the company's chipset and kernel limitations, not a broken promise, caused the cutoff.
- He acknowledged bloatware and monetization practices need better balance as Nothing expands and diversifies.
Nothing Phone (3a) — If Pei's talk of doing fewer things better has you curious about where Nothing OS is headed, the Phone (3a) is the current way in — transparent Glyph-lit design and Nothing's minimalist software on a newer platform than the aging Phone 2. It's the model still riding the update roadmap rather than winding down.
See Nothing Phone (3a) on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: androidauthority.com, 2026-09-07
Published there as: “From bloatware to roots: Carl Pei admits Nothing needs to do better”
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