In a market saturated with iterative updates, Nothing has once again cut through the noise with the launch of its latest personal audio device. The Nothing Ear (3) is not merely an upgrade; it is a holistic re-imagining of what a wireless earbud can be. The new model combines precision acoustics, a revolutionary Super Mic in the case, and a fresh design language that for the first time integrates polished metal components into Nothing’s signature transparent aesthetic, aiming to set a new standard for the category.
The most significant innovation lies not in the earbuds themselves, but in their home. The Super Mic is a dual-microphone system housed directly within the charging case. Driven by advanced ambient-filtering technology, it focuses on your voice, cutting through surrounding noise up to 95 dB to ensure crystal-clear calls in any environment. This feature is activated by a dedicated TALK button on the case, making it a powerful tool for both quick conversations and extended discussions. Beyond calls, the Super Mic allows users to capture voice notes directly from the case, which can then be synced and automatically transcribed within Nothing’s Essential Space ecosystem, a boon for capturing ideas on the fly.
This external innovation is complemented by sophisticated internal systems. Each earbud incorporates three directional microphones and a bone-conduction Voice Pick-up Unit (VPU). This VPU detects micro-vibrations from the jaw and ear canal, a method less susceptible to environmental noise. It works in concert with a multi-channel AI environmental noise-cancellation system, trained on over 20 million hours of real-world audio, to isolate the user’s voice and suppress wind noise by over 25dB. For listening, the Real-time Adaptive Noise Cancellation is equally impressive, adjusting to your surroundings every 600 milliseconds and achieving up to 45 dB of noise cancellation for profound immersion.
The acoustic experience is driven by an upgraded 12mm dynamic driver featuring a patterned diaphragm. This design results in a 20% larger radiating area compared to its predecessor, delivering a tangible acoustic upgrade with a boosted bass response of 4-6 dB and enhanced treble. The outcome is a rich, natural sound with a wider soundstage, cleaner highs, and detailed mids.
Visually, the Ear (3) refines Nothing’s iconic language. The signature transparent casing reveals the intricate inner structure, now elegantly framed by new polished metal accents. This is more than an aesthetic choice; a custom Metal-Insulator-Metal (MIM) antenna, a mere 0.35 mm thick, improves connectivity with a 15% boost in total radiated power. The charging case itself is a marvel of sustainable design, crafted from 100% recycled aluminium and finished through 27 precision processes. Nano injection moulding fuses metal and plastic without glue, creating a seamless, compact unibody that feels both premium and durable.
Performance is robust across the board. With an upgraded 55 mAh battery in each bud, users get up to 10 hours of listening without ANC, extending to a total of 38 hours with the case. A rapid 10-minute USB-C charge provides up to 10 hours of playback, and built-in wireless charging adds convenience. Connectivity is top-tier with Bluetooth 5.4 and support for LDAC for high-resolution audio, while a low-latency mode cuts delay to under 120 milliseconds for gaming. The IP54-rated earbuds and case offer resistance to dust, sweat, and light rain.
The Nothing Ear (3) is available now in classic black and white colourways. Priced at $179 / €179, it is available for purchase through nothing.tech and select retail partners. With its bold fusion of disruptive technology, honest design, and enhanced acoustic performance, the Ear (3) solidifies Nothing’s position as a defining voice in modern personal tech.