Nothing launches tool for creating AI apps on smartphones

Nothing has unveiled Playground, a new tool and store for apps built with AI. The company calls it "the first step towards an AI-native operating system," although in reality the solution runs on top of Android and is limited to widgets for now, The Verge reports.

Playground allows users to create simple applications through the Essential Apps platform, where a text query is enough to generate a widget for their needs. Examples include a mood tracker that syncs with music, automatically converting receipts into expense forms, or clothing advice based on their calendar and wardrobe. The created applications can be installed on their own Nothing smartphone or distributed through Playground.

According to Nothing founder Carl Pei, the current version is just the beginning. In the future, the process of creating apps will become seamless and possible directly on a smartphone, even by voice. The company also sees the prospect of developing a new "creator economy" where users will be able to remix and develop other people's apps on an open source basis.

Despite the loud claims about "AI OS", Pei admits that it is more about the interface than a full-fledged operating system. Nothing has any plans to abandon Android, which remains the base platform with a developed ecosystem.

The feature is only available on Nothing smartphones, except for the Phone 1, which no longer receives major updates. The company hasn't revealed its monetization plans yet, but it compares a possible model to YouTube.

Recall, it recently became known that Nothing plans to separate its budget brand CMF into an independent subsidiary and move its head office, as well as production and R&D, to India.