Nothing will implement controversial changes to its phones, beginning with the Phone (3a) Lite.

The change follows the recent discovery of Lock Glimpse in the latest Android 16 beta for Nothing OS 4.0. This tool, which is currently disabled by default, offers rotating wallpapers displaying content on the lock screen. Users quickly noted its similarity to Glance, an ad-supported lock screen on some Motorola and Xiaomi phones.

Nothing has now confirmed that Lock Glimpse, along with select third-party apps, will be included on future affordable devices. The company explained that this strategy aligns with industry practices, helping smaller companies manage material costs.

Software-based revenue streams, such as pre-installed apps and services, are common for many brands, including Samsung.

Nothing says preloaded partner apps will be limited, easily removable, and transparently disclosed. Lock Glimpse will reportedly be optional, though availability may vary by region and device tier.

This marks a shift for the company, which previously focused on delivering bloatware-free Android devices with a clean interface. There is a risk of alienating early supporters who valued Nothing OS for its simplicity and lack of advertising.

The Nothing Phone (3a) Lite is scheduled for release on October 29. Initial images suggest a streamlined design and possibly a single Glyph LED on the rear. While specifications are still unknown, the "Lite" designation suggests a lower price point than the Nothing Phone (3a), making it a likely candidate for these new monetization features.

Nothing follows Samsung, Xiaomi, and OnePlus in using advertising and preloaded app partnerships to lower hardware expenses. The company will need to maintain transparency around its new advertising approach to protect its position as an alternative to mainstream Android brands.

The future of Lock Glimpse remains to be seen, and Nothing needs to demonstrate complete transparency when the Phone (3a) Lite launches.