Nothing Headphone (a) Launched: 135h Battery, £149 Price & Features
Nothing has expanded its audio lineup with the release of the Headphone (a), the company’s first affordable over-ear headphones. Available in four colors – pink, yellow, white, and black – these headphones boast an impressive 135 hours of battery life on a single charge, a figure that immediately positions them as a contender in the endurance category. The Headphone (a) is priced at $199, with a limited-edition yellow color arriving in April.
Beyond Battery Life: Features and Controls
The Headphone (a) isn’t just about long listening sessions. Building on the design language established by the Nothing Headphone (1), the new model incorporates tactile controls designed for intuitive operation. These include a “Roller” for volume adjustment, a “Paddle” for media playback, and a “Button” for ANC mode switching and other functions. Notably, the Button can also function as a remote shutter trigger for smartphone cameras, and a feature called Channel Hop allows quick access to frequently used apps without needing to reach for your phone. GSM Arena details these controls, emphasizing Nothing’s aim to move away from the friction often associated with touch interfaces.
Weighing in at 310g, the headphones are designed for comfort with breathable memory foam cushions. They also feature an IP52 rating, offering protection against dust and sweat, making them suitable for workouts or commutes.
Sound Quality and Connectivity
The Headphone (a) supports Hi-Res Audio Wireless and the LDAC codec, promising high-fidelity audio reproduction. The headphones utilize 40mm titanium-coated drivers, which Nothing claims deliver “powerful, distortion-free sound exactly as the artist intended.” Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is included, with three presets available to tailor the listening experience to different environments. Call quality is supported by three microphones. Users can further customize the sound profile using the Nothing X app, which provides an eight-band EQ and a real-time Bass Enhancement algorithm.
A Familiar Foundation with Refinements
The controls on the Headphone (a) are directly inherited from the Nothing Headphone (1) released last year. This suggests a deliberate design choice to maintain consistency for existing Nothing users while introducing a more accessible price point. Android Authority highlights this continuity, noting the familiar Roller, Paddle, and Button system. The addition of the camera shutter function for the Button demonstrates a focus on expanding the functionality of these physical controls beyond basic audio manipulation.
Battery Performance and Quick Charging
The headline feature of the Headphone (a) is undoubtedly its battery life. The advertised 135 hours of playback with ANC turned off is a significant achievement, exceeding many competitors in the over-ear headphone market. Even with ANC enabled, users can expect substantial listening time. A five-minute recharge provides five hours of playback, offering a convenient solution for users who need a quick boost before heading out. This rapid charging capability is a practical addition, addressing a common concern for users who frequently forget to charge their devices.
Availability and Pricing
The Nothing Headphone (a) is available for pre-order now through Nothing’s official website and select partners. The white, black, and pink color options are priced at £149 / $199 / €159, with shipping commencing on March 13th. The limited-edition yellow color will follow on April 6th. Nothing’s official product page provides further details and purchasing options.
The launch of the Headphone (a) alongside the Nothing Phone (4a) and Phone (4a) Pro signals Nothing’s continued expansion into the consumer electronics market. By offering a compelling combination of features, battery life, and affordability, the Headphone (a) aims to attract a wider audience and establish Nothing as a serious player in the audio space. The success of this launch will likely depend on real-world user experiences and independent reviews confirming the advertised battery life and sound quality.
Looking ahead, the integration of the Nothing X app and the potential for future software updates will be crucial in enhancing the user experience. The ability to refine the EQ settings and leverage the Bass Enhancement algorithm will allow users to tailor the sound to their preferences. Nothing’s commitment to ongoing development could introduce new features and improvements over time, solidifying the Headphone (a)’s position in the competitive headphone market.