Nothing Ear (3a) launched Globally with LDAC, up to 45dB Adaptive ANC, built-in call recording
Nothing has launched its latest true wireless earbuds, the Nothing Ear (3a) for the Global Market, alongside the Nothing Phone (4b). It introduces a redesigned rounded form factor with an ergonomic fit for improved comfort. It is supplied with four sizes of silicone ear tips, including a new XS option to better accommodate different users. The earbuds carry an IP54 rating, offering protection against dust, sweat, and light rain.
The redesigned charging case now features a 1×3 status light that provides visual indicators for battery level, charging status, Bluetooth pairing, firmware updates, factory reset, and error notifications.
For audio performance, the Ear (3a) is equipped with a 12mm dynamic driver that delivers up to 5dB more bass compared to the Ear (a), while also enhancing overall sound clarity and detail. It additionally supports Static Spatial Audio to create a more immersive listening experience.
Audio Features
- Wideband Active Noise Cancellation with up to 45dB noise reduction and up to 6dB better suppression in the human voice frequency range.
- Adaptive ANC that automatically adjusts the level of noise cancellation based on surrounding environmental conditions.
- Transparency Mode that allows users to hear ambient sounds without removing the earbuds.
- Three microphones on each earbud combined with AI-powered noise reduction technology for improved voice call quality.
The Ear (3a) comes with 32MB of onboard flash storage and introduces several intelligent audio features designed to enhance everyday usability.
Smart Features
Audio Snapshot lets users capture up to one minute of audio, including up to 30 seconds recorded before activation. Saved recordings can be replayed, edited, transcribed, and converted into shareable quote cards using the Nothing X app.
Call Recording can be activated directly from the earbuds with a pinch gesture. Recordings are stored locally on the earbuds before syncing with the Nothing X app, where users can replay recordings, edit them, adjust playback speed, view transcripts, and generate summaries. A privacy notification is automatically played to inform other participants during calls and meetings.
Connectivity and Software
The Nothing Ear (3a) supports Bluetooth 6.0, dual-device connectivity, and customizable touch controls. Through the Nothing X app, users gain access to AI-powered features, including four preset EQ modes, a customizable 8-band equalizer, QR code sharing for sound profiles, ChatGPT integration, and a personalized daily audio news digest.
Battery Life
The earbuds deliver up to 6 hours of playback with Active Noise Cancellation enabled and up to 10 hours with ANC turned off. When paired with the charging case, total battery life increases to as much as 25 hours with ANC enabled and up to 42 hours with ANC disabled. A quick five-minute charge provides up to one hour of playback.
Quick Specifications: Nothing Ear (3a)
| Design | In-ear, IP54 dust and water resistance |
| Driver | 12mm dynamic driver, 32Ω, PMI+TPU diaphragm |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz–40,000Hz |
| Audio Codecs | LDAC, SBC, AAC; Hi-Res Wireless certification; Static Spatial Audio |
| Noise Cancellation | Adaptive ANC up to 45dB, Transparency Mode |
| Microphones | Six microphones (three per earbud) |
| Built-in Storage | 32MB |
| Recording Features | Audio Snapshot, on-device call recording |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 6.0, dual-device connectivity, Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair |
| App Features | Custom EQ, 8-band equalizer, ChatGPT integration, AI news digest |
| Battery | 55mAh (each earbud), 500mAh charging case; Up to 10 hours of playback (ANC off), up to 6 hours (ANC on); Up to 42 hours total playback with case (ANC off), up to 25 hours (ANC on) |
| Charging | USB Type-C, 70-minute full charge, 5-minute charge for up to 1 hour of playback |
| Dimensions | Earbud: 31.2 × 21.7 × 24mm Charging Case: 64.8 × 48.95 × 22.8mm |
| Weight | Earbud: 4.53g Charging Case: 40.92g |
| Compatibility | Android 8.0 or later, iOS 13 or later |
Pricing and Availability
The Nothing Ear (3a) carries a price tag of USD 99 (approximately Rs. 9,390). The earbuds are offered in Pink, Yellow, Black, and White colour options and went on sale starting July 7 through Nothing's official website. The company has not yet announced pricing or availability details for the Indian market.