Five days of continuous playback arrives for $199 as Nothing's latest over-ear headphones deliver exceptional battery life without premium pricing. The Headphone (a) offers 135 hours of use with active noise cancellation disabled, equivalent to more than five full days of listening.
With ANC enabled, battery life reaches 75 hours according to company claims revealed during a London launch event on March 5, which coincided with Mobile World Congress.
Pre-orders opened March 5 for black, white, and pink models priced at $199 (£149/€159), with general availability beginning March 13. A limited edition yellow version launches April 6.
Nothing's second-generation over-ear design maintains the signature square earcups from last year's $299 Headphone (1) while cutting the price by one-third. The company positions the new model as its "first affordable pair" of branded over-ear headphones.
Audio specifications include Hi-Resolution Audio Wireless certification and LDAC codec support for high-quality streaming. Adaptive Noise Cancellation provides three preset modes using dual feedforward and feedback microphones.
Physical controls replace touch interfaces with three distinct mechanisms: a roller for volume adjustment, a paddle for media navigation and ANC mode switching, and a dedicated button for camera shutter functionality or app navigation through Channel Hop mode.
The Nothing X companion app delivers an eight-band equalizer with real-time Bass Enhancement algorithm for sound customization. Dual-device connection support works across Android devices while maintaining compatibility with iOS and Windows platforms.
Battery performance claims represent a significant jump from previous Nothing audio products. A five-minute quick charge provides approximately five hours of playback time according to company testing.
Early hands-on impressions note improved soundstage compared to the original model despite the lower price point. Reviewers describe the audio signature as "impactful and well-balanced" with bass enhancement activated by default.
The headphones carry an IP52 rating for dust and sweat resistance alongside breathable memory foam cushions designed for extended wear comfort.
Nothing launched alongside its Phone (4a) series during its London event on March 5, continuing the brand's strategy of offering distinctive design elements at accessible price points across multiple product categories.
