Nothing Headphone (1) Breaks the Mould with Retro Controls and Modern Specs
In addition to the highly anticipated Nothing Phone (3), Nothing has officially introduced its latest audio product, the Nothing Headphone (1). Staying true to the company’s distinctive transparent design language, these new headphones also boast a user interface that deviates significantly from modern touch-centric trends, opting instead for a suite of physical controls.
Core Specifications and Build Quality
The Nothing Headphone (1) comes equipped with 40mm drivers, promising a robust audio experience. Battery life is impressive, offering up to 80 hours with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) enabled and a remarkable 35 hours without. Durability is also a focus, with an IP52 rating providing resistance against dust and light water splashes. For crystal-clear calls and effective noise cancellation, the headphones feature a total of four microphones. Connectivity is handled via Bluetooth 5.3, with the welcome inclusion of a 3.5mm audio jack for wired listening.
In terms of build, the ear cups are constructed with an aluminium frame, complemented by a plastic shell that extends to the headband. Notably, the material where one might expect faux leather feels more akin to rubber, contributing to a unique tactile experience.
A Return to Physical Controls
Perhaps the most striking departure from contemporary headphone design is Nothing’s choice to forgo touch sensors for navigation. The Nothing Headphone (1) embraces a tactile approach with an array of physical controls, all conveniently located on the right ear cup. These include a dedicated volume roller and a paddle for media control, allowing users to rewind, fast forward, and skip tracks with ease. A straightforward power button and a discreetly placed Bluetooth pairing button (hidden inside the frame) round out the main controls. Additionally, a dedicated button serves either as a voice assistant trigger or an auxiliary control for the “Essential Space” feature.
Pricing and Availability
The Nothing Headphone (1) is priced at USD299 (approximately RM1,261) and will be available in both black and white colour options. Pre-order info will be provided during the official Malaysian launch sometime this month.
