Nothing has officially expanded its audio lineup with the Headphone (a), a more accessible alternative to the flagship Headphone 1. While the new model retains the brand’s distinct industrial design language, it breaks away from the monochrome aesthetic with a vibrant palette featuring Yellow, Pink, White, and Black.
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The standout feature of the Headphone (a) is its staggering battery life. Nothing claims the device offers 135 hours of playback on a single charge, effectively lasting over five days of continuous use. To put this in perspective, competitors like the Sony WH-CH520, which are highly regarded for their longevity, offer only about 50 hours. For those in a rush, a quick five-minute charge provides five hours of listening time.
Designed for all-day wear, the headphones weigh in at a relatively light 310 grams and feature breathable memory foam cushions. Nothing has also ported over the tactile control scheme from the Headphone 1, utilizing a physical interface of buttons, paddles, and a roller for precise volume and track management.
A new programmable “Smart Button” allows users to:
- Switch between streaming and podcast apps without touching their phone.
- Remotely trigger a smartphone camera to snap photos or start videos.
- Access other customizable shortcuts via the Nothing X app.
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Despite the lower price point, the Headphone (a) includes Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). This system uses a three-microphone array to monitor environmental sounds and adjust isolation levels in real-time. The headphones also support spatial audio virtualization and full integration with the Nothing X app for custom EQ tuning.
Priced at $200, a significant $100 less than the flagship model, the Headphone (a) is available for pre-order immediately. Most colourways are scheduled to ship on March 13, though those eyeing the standout Yellow version will have to wait until April for their units to arrive.
