In a world where audio devices often blend into a sea of sameness, Nothing’s debut over-ear headphones, the Headphone (1), make an unmistakable statement. Launched on July 1, 2025, alongside the Nothing Phone (3), these headphones combine a striking transparent design with advanced audio technology, positioning them as a bold contender in the premium headphone market. Priced at $299 in the US, £299 in the UK, and €299 in Europe, they aim to challenge industry giants like Sony, Bose, and Apple while offering a unique aesthetic and feature set that’s turning heads.
A Design That Demands Attention
Nothing has built its brand on transparency—both literally and figuratively—and the Headphone (1) embodies this ethos with a retro-modern aesthetic that feels like a nod to the cassette players of the ’90s. The earcups feature a transparent outer shell, revealing internal components like acoustic chambers and faux cassette “reels,” creating a futuristic yet nostalgic vibe. Available in Black and White, the headphones’ rectangular earcups with raised oval modules stand out from the conventional round or oval designs of competitors.
The construction blends high-quality materials, including CNC-machined aluminum for structural integrity and lightweight polycarbonate for the earcups, keeping the weight at 329 grams. Memory foam ear cushions, coated with oil-resistant PU leather, ensure comfort, though some users note a snug fit that may press on larger ears during extended use. The adjustable headband and pivoting earcups allow for a tailored fit, but the lack of a folding mechanism might limit portability, a trade-off for the rigid design’s durability.
This bold design isn’t just about looks—it’s functional. The transparent casing serves as a visual showcase of the headphones’ acoustic engineering, aligning with Nothing’s philosophy of making technology visible and accessible. As Nothing’s CEO Carl Pei stated, the goal was to create “a more interesting looking pair of headphones that say something about you,” and the Headphone (1) delivers on that promise with a style that’s as much a fashion statement as it is an audio device.
Premium Sound Tuned by KEF
Partnering with British audio pioneer KEF, known for its high-fidelity speakers and headphones, Nothing has ensured the Headphone (1) delivers more than just visual flair. The headphones feature custom 40mm dynamic drivers, tuned to produce a balanced sound signature with deep bass, clear mids, and crisp treble. Whether you’re listening to the pulsating beats of electronic music or the intricate strings of a classical piece, the audio quality holds its own against pricier competitors like the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Apple AirPods Max.
The Headphone (1) supports high-resolution audio through LDAC and AAC codecs, ensuring a rich listening experience for audiophiles. A standout feature is the on-device spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, which adjusts the soundstage based on head movement, creating an immersive 3D audio experience. While some reviewers find spatial audio gimmicky, Nothing’s implementation is responsive and enhances supported content, such as movies or spatial audio tracks on streaming platforms.
Advanced Features for Modern Listening
The Headphone (1) is packed with features that cater to both casual listeners and tech enthusiasts. Its hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) uses four microphones—two feedforward and two feedback—to block up to 42dB of ambient noise. While it may not match the industry-leading ANC of Sony or Bose, it effectively dampens low-frequency sounds like engine hums or city noise, making it ideal for commutes or office settings. The Transparency Mode, which lets in external sounds, is functional but less natural compared to top-tier competitors, partly due to the snug earcup fit that already provides strong passive isolation.
Nothing’s decision to ditch touch controls in favor of tactile, physical buttons sets the Headphone (1) apart in a market dominated by swipe-based interfaces. A roller button adjusts volume, plays or pauses tracks with a tap, and toggles ANC modes with a long press. A paddle button handles track skipping and call management, while a customizable button on the right earcup can trigger a voice assistant, switch audio apps via Nothing’s “Channel Hop” feature, or activate other functions through the Nothing X app. This intuitive control scheme ensures precise operation, even without looking at the headphones.
The headphones support Bluetooth 5.3 with dual-device connectivity, Google Fast Pair, and Microsoft Swift Pair, making pairing seamless across Android and iOS devices. A 3.5mm audio jack and USB-C lossless audio support add versatility for wired listening, appealing to audiophiles who prefer high-fidelity connections. The Nothing X app enhances customization with an 8-band equalizer, allowing users to fine-tune the sound profile to their preferences.
Marathon Battery Life and Practical Extras
Battery life is a strong suit for the Headphone (1). With ANC off, it delivers up to 80 hours of playback on a single charge using AAC audio, dropping to 54 hours with LDAC. With ANC enabled, expect 35 hours for AAC and 30 hours for LDAC—figures that rival or surpass many competitors. A quick 5-minute charge via USB-C provides 2.4 to 5 hours of playback, depending on ANC usage, ensuring minimal downtime.
The headphones come with a softshell storage case, extra earmuffs, and a charging cable, adding value to the package. At 329 grams, they’re heavier than the Sony WH-1000XM6 (252 grams) but lighter than the Apple AirPods Max (384 grams). While some users report mild discomfort after prolonged wear due to the snug fit, the memory foam cushions and adjustable headband generally ensure a comfortable experience for most.
Competitive Pricing and Market Positioning
Priced at $299, the Headphone (1) undercuts premium competitors like the Apple AirPods Max ($549) and Sony WH-1000XM6 ($449), offering comparable sound quality and features at a lower cost. In India, the headphones retail for Rs 21,990, with an introductory offer of Rs 19,999 on the first day of sale (July 15, 2025) through retailers like Flipkart, Vijay Sales, Myntra, and Croma. Pre-orders began on July 4, 2025, via Nothing’s website and select partners.
While the ANC and transparency modes may not outshine the best in the market, the combination of KEF-tuned audio, innovative design, and a robust feature set makes the Headphone (1) a compelling value proposition. Its quirky, cassette-inspired look may polarize opinions—some reviewers liken it to a “Cybermen cosplay” from Doctor Who—but for those who embrace bold aesthetics, it’s a refreshing departure from the monotonous designs of mainstream headphones.
A Strong Debut in a Crowded Market
Nothing’s Headphone (1) marks a confident entry into the over-ear headphone segment, blending style, substance, and affordability. Its transparent design, tactile controls, and KEF-tuned audio make it a standout choice for those who value individuality and performance. While it may not dethrone Sony or Bose in noise cancellation, it offers a unique experience that resonates with Nothing’s growing fanbase and newcomers alike.
For audiophiles, design enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a fresh take on wireless headphones, the Nothing Headphone (1) delivers a compelling package. As Nothing continues to carve its niche in the tech world, these headphones prove that innovation and personality can coexist in a market often dominated by conformity.
Keywords: Nothing Headphone (1), transparent headphones, over-ear headphones, KEF audio, active noise cancellation, spatial audio, Bluetooth 5.3, Nothing X app, retro-modern design, premium headphones
Last Updated on: Wednesday, July 2, 2025 4:44 pm by R Sampath Kumar | Published by: R Sampath Kumar on Wednesday, July 2, 2025 4:44 pm | News Categories: Technology
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