The opening scene of Episode 1 in Season 4 of "Upload" finds Nora immersed in a virtual reality world, daydreaming about her wedding to Nathan. However, a shocking revelation unfolds: it is the actual Nathan who has passed away. Ingrid and Aleesha, with compassionate hearts, strive to provide Nora with the comfort she desperately needs during her mourning period. On the eve of Ingrid's bachelorette party, Nora briefly emerges from her virtual sanctuary into the real world, only to slip back into her VR escapade almost instantly. Intriguingly, Ivan has also taken up residence with the trio, maintaining his characteristic nonchalant demeanor amidst their shared living space in Aleesha's swanky condo, generously funded by her means.
Meanwhile, in Lakeview, the AI staff is entangled in assisting Luke and Nathan 2.0—yes, the upgraded version of Nathan—with their wedding vows. While the impending nuptials between Nathan 2.0 and Ingrid barely elicit any serious consideration from anyone except Luke, who dreams of a lavish and flawless ceremony. Luke vents his frustrations to Ingrid, who has now embarked on a new journey as an Angel with Horizen. Aleesha, promoted to EVP, orchestrates their affairs from the confines of her opulent office. Luke suspects Aleesha is avoiding him after their passionate kiss, sparking playful teasing from Ingrid, revealing a deepening friendship between the two women amidst their playful banter.
Yet, Aleesha's plate is far from empty; she now operates as a spy for Oscar Mayer Intel, a role she finds deeply unsettling. A bombshell is dropped when it's disclosed that Karina was once an OMI spy, tasked with eliminating Aleesha for getting her fired from Horizen. Ironically, Karina still holds a fondness for Aleesha, leading OMI to recruit her instead of eliminating her.
Back at their abode, Nora grows increasingly frustrated with the VR Nathan, who fails to emulate the late Nathan's essence. To her astonishment, she catches a glimpse of Nathan's ethereal form in the real world, looking haggard yet otherworldly luminous. Both are baffled by this supernatural occurrence but overjoyed to reconnect, albeit temporarily.
Ingrid's bachelorette bash falls flat, with only Lucy, Tinsley, and Batia in attendance. Aleesha finds herself entangled with OMI's Mr. Chu, who teaches her self-defense through AI-enhanced glasses. Meanwhile, Nora opts to remain engrossed in the Nathan projection, skipping the bash entirely. As the night drags on, Aleesha finally arrives, breathing new life into Ingrid's flagging spirits and transforming the evening into a cheerful celebration.
The festivities at Nathan 2.0's bachelor party are likewise taking a turn for the worse. The guest list, a peculiar amalgamation of random AIs and Lakeview residents, hardly sets the tone. Sponsored by Gordita Crunch, the relentless advertisements serve as an unwelcome distraction, dampening the spirits of the attendees. Nora finds herself questioning the authenticity of a projection, wondering if it's real or merely a figment of her imagination. Seeking solace, she turns to her religious father, who provides her with comfort by embracing the notion of souls and envisioning Nathan in heaven.
Realizing she has neglected a close friend, Nora agrees to stand as Ingrid's maid of honor. As the bridesmaids prepare for the impending nuptials in Lakeview, Nora makes a startling announcement: Nathan has been haunting her as a spectral figure. Skeptical yet supportive, her friends listen intently. However, on the wedding day, Nora's mood turns somber as she witnesses Nathan 2.0 exchanging vows with Ingrid. Luke, serving as the officiant, injects humor into the proceedings, lightening the atmosphere. Ingrid's vows, though quirky, exude sweetness. Nathan, ever the improviser, offers pun-laden yet romantic vows of his own. Yet again, Gordita Crunch casts a shadow over the celebrations, also sponsoring the wedding.
During the reception, Ingrid notices Nora's melancholy expression and offers her sympathy. During their first dance, Ingrid's VR suit malfunctions, prompting Nora to step in for her on her big day, the switch occurring just as Nathan 1.0 reappears in Nora's living room. Hidden from view, Nathan reveals himself to be a projection, indicating that he is not deceased but rather digital. As Upload Season 4 Episode 1 concludes, Nathan pleads with Nora to find him.
