Nothing Headphone 1 Launches with Retro Design and Advanced Sound Features

On July 15, 2025, London-based consumer electronics company Nothing officially launched its latest product, the Nothing Headphone 1, following the release of the Nothing Phone 3 on July 1. Priced at $299 in the U.S., GBP 299 in the U.K., and INR 21,999 in India, these headphones aim to compete with premium offerings from established brands such as Sony, Bose, and Apple.

The Nothing Headphone 1 features a distinctive 'squircle' design, reminiscent of a vintage cassette tape, which sets it apart from conventional headphone shapes. This design choice is part of Nothing's ethos to challenge the monotony of typical consumer electronics aesthetics. The headphones weigh 329 grams, making them heavier than comparable models like the Sony WH-1000XM6 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra, which weigh 254 grams, but lighter than the Apple AirPods Max, which weigh 385 grams. Despite the weight, experts suggest that the headphones are generally comfortable for extended wear.

Crafted using a combination of aluminum and high-tech plastics, the earcups are designed to be oil-resistant, with memory foam cushioning that provides a good seal for passive noise cancellation. However, there are concerns regarding heat retention, as the ear pads may become uncomfortable during warm weather. Additionally, users are unable to replace these ear pads themselves, which could lead to increased maintenance costs.

Unlike many modern headphones that rely on touch-sensitive controls, the Nothing Headphone 1 incorporates physical buttons and a roller for user interaction. The right earcup features three control types: a customizable button, a volume roller, and a paddle button that allows for track skipping and playback control. This unique approach seeks to enhance user experience, particularly for those who prefer tactile feedback over touch controls.

From an audio perspective, the headphones are equipped with 40mm drivers featuring nickel-plated diaphragms that aim to deliver clarity in high frequencies and robust bass. According to Dr. Emily Carter, an audio engineering expert at the University of California, Berkeley, "The design of the drivers, combined with the overall tuning from KEF, allows for a sound profile that should appeal to a wide audience, although audiophiles may find the bass response less pronounced compared to high-end competitors."

The active noise cancellation (ANC) technology in the Nothing Headphone 1 has been noted for its effectiveness in reducing ambient noise, such as chatter in public spaces or the sound of airplane engines. The headphones house six microphones, four of which are dedicated to voice calls, enhancing clarity while minimizing background noise. Users can select from various ANC modes, including low, medium, high, and adaptive settings. In high mode, the ANC performance is comparable to leading models from Sony and Bose, according to user reviews and audio testing reports.

The Nothing Headphone 1 is now available for purchase through various platforms, including Amazon and the company’s official website in the U.S. In India, major retailers such as Flipkart and Croma are offering the headphones at a special introductory price of INR 19,999. The launch of these headphones reflects a growing trend in the consumer electronics market where brands are increasingly focusing on innovative designs and user-centric features to differentiate themselves from competitors.

Overall, the Nothing Headphone 1 represents an intriguing entry into the crowded headphone market, combining retro aesthetics with modern technology. As the audio landscape continues to evolve, the success of this product will depend on its ability to capture the interest of consumers looking for both style and substance in their audio devices.