Nothing, the electronics brand founded by OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei, has just unveiled its new True Wireless earbuds, the Nothing Ear and Nothing Ear (a). Here’s a look at these latest-generation models, which combine wireless sound performance, advanced features and a futuristic design.
Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification and sound customization
Nothing’s two new pairs of earbuds are both certified Hi-Res Audio Wireless. To this end, both models support the Bluetooth LDAC codec for files up to 24-bit/96kHz. The Nothing Ear wireless IEMs are also compatible with the LHDC 5.0 codec for wireless transmission at up to 1 Mbit/s in 24-bit/192kHz.
Although they don’t share the same transducer – 11 mm ceramic for the Nothing Ear model and 11 mm PMI + TPU for the Nothing Ear (a) model – both adopt a bass enhancement algorithm. The latter detects low frequencies in music in real time and automatically enhances them for more dynamic sound.
Comprehensive app: Nothing X
To take things a step further, the brand offers an 8-band equalizer via the Nothing X app (iOS and Android) to personalize the sound profile according to preferences or the musical genre. The Nothing Ear Bluetooth earphones also feature automatic calibration, which adjusts the equalizer based on the test results according to the shape of the ear, just like Denon Perl. Another exclusive feature of this model is that the profiles created with the equalizer can be shared from one device to another, preserving the sound signature regardless of the source.
There is another test, available on both models: the ear tip fit test. In the Nothing X app, this feature confirms the correct fit of the tips and makes it easier to choose which of the three sizes to use.
The dedicated app also provides access to other options, including activation of the Bass Enhanced function, customization of the touch controls, activation of the low-latency mode, and even a search feature if you lose your earbuds.
And as the Nothing Ear and Nothing Ear (a) earbuds support Bluetooth Multipoint, the app lets you configure both connected devices simultaneously. You’ll be able to listen to music on your computer, while staying in touch with your phone at all times.
Active noise cancelling and Transparency mode
The new Nothing Ear and Ear (a) earbuds feature the brand’s most effective active noise cancelling system. It can reach -45 dB to completely isolate you from your surroundings. This noise reduction can be adjusted according to the user’s needs, or managed automatically by the algorithm by activating the “Adaptive” mode.
What’s more, these Nothing 2024 wireless earbuds both benefit from Clear Voice technology, which isolates the voice so that the phone call is as clear as a face-to-face conversation, even outdoors.
Finally, a Transparency mode is included. The latter enables the user to remain aware of their environment while listening to music or taking calls, thanks to built-in microphones that amplify outside sounds.
Long autonomy
The Nothing Ear and Nothing Ear (a) wireless earphones have a very long battery life. With the case, the Nothing Ear (a) earbuds can reach up to 42h30, and up to 9h30 on their own. The Nothing Ear earphones, meanwhile, reach up to 40h30 with the case and up to 8h30 on their own. They are also compatible with wireless charging.
What’s more, both models feature a quick-charge function that recovers up to 10 hours of continuous playback in just 10 minutes!
Transparent, durable design
In a nod to the brand’s early earphone models, these new iterations feature a transparent chassis revealing the internal components. The Nothing Ear (a) earbuds are also available in a bright yellow finish, reminiscent of a certain limited-edition Sony Walkman. Beyond their iconic look, the Nothing earphones are IP54 water and dust resistant, so you can use them during a sports session or in case of unexpected bad weather!
Integrated ChatGPT for the Nothing ecosystem
The True Wireless Nothing Ear and Nothing Ear (a) earphones offer much more than a simple listening experience. With the fusion of Nothing’s cutting-edge technology and the seamless integration of ChatGPT, these earphones let you interact with AI on the move. This unique integration, designed exclusively for the Nothing ecosystem, lets users ask questions, listen to informative answers and learn, all without having to lift a finger. This feature is only available on the Phone (2) model and will soon be available on the brand’s Phone (1) and Phone (2a) models, thanks to software updates.
Nothing Ear VS Nothing Ear (a)
| Ear | Ear (a) | |
| Transducers | 11 mm ceramic dynamic | 11 mm dynamic in PMI + TPU |
| Hi-Res Audio Wireless certified | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth codec | AAC, SBC, LHDC 5.0, LDAC | AAC, SBC, LDAC |
| Active noise cancelling | Active Noise Cancelling (ANC), Transparency mode | ANC, Transparency mode |
| Battery life | Total without ANC: 40h30 Total with ANC: 24h Headphones alone without ANC: 8h30 Headphones alone with ANC: 5h10 Compatible with wireless charging | Total without ANC: 42h30 Total with ANC: 24h30 Earphones alone without ANC: 9h30 Headphones alone with ANC: 5h30 |
| Sound customization | 8-band equalizer with profile sharing Bass reinforcement Customized acoustic test | Equalizer Bass boost |
| Additional functions | Bluetooth Multipoint, Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair | Bluetooth Multipoint, Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair |
| Water and dust resistance | IP54 earbuds / IP55 case | IP54 earbuds / IPX2 case |
These two pairs of earbuds are already available on the Son-Vidéo.com website at the respective prices of €149 for the Nothing Ear (in black or white) and €99 for the Nothing Ear (a) (in black, white or yellow as a limited edition).
About Nothing
A British company specializing in electronic devices, Nothing is emerging as a promising new player on the European technology scene. Founded by OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei, this London-based start-up entered the consumer electronics market with an initial range of wireless earbuds, then smartphones, featuring a transparent design and competitive prices. With its determination to challenge the industry giants, Nothing relies on affordable equipment and a distinctive visual identity emphasizing transparency.
