Nothing has officially launched its new flagship true wireless earbuds, the Ear (3). It brings several upgrades over the previous model. The earbuds now feature a premium metal design, advanced audio performance, and a unique “Super Mic” system integrated into the charging case.
The Ear (3) introduces polished metal elements while retaining Nothing’s signature transparent aesthetic. The charging case is made from 100% recycled aluminum to offer durability and a premium feel. Inside, a thin Metal-Insulator-Metal (MIM) antenna is used to improve signal strength and sensitivity compared to the Ear (2).
Audio performance has also been upgraded. The earbuds feature 12mm dynamic drivers with a PMI + TPU diaphragm and a patterned design that improves bass and treble response for a wider soundstage. It offers Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity with LDAC support to ensure high-resolution audio playback. However, LHDC 5.0 from the previous generation is not included. It also has Low-Latency Mode that boasts under 120ms end-to-end delay to sync audio and visuals for gaming and videos.
It boasts a newSuper Mic system. It is a dual-microphone setup housed in the case and can filter ambient noise up to 95 dB to ensure clear voice capture during calls. It also allows users to record voice notes directly from the case, which are transcribed in the Nothing’s Essential Space app.
Each earbud is equipped with three microphones and a bone-conduction Voice Pick-up Unit (VPU), which detects micro-vibrations from the jaw and ear canal to enhance voice clarity. The earbuds also feature AI-based environmental noise cancellation, which is trained to suppress wind and background noise for clearer calls.
The Ear (3) comes with Real-time Adaptive Noise Cancellation that can reduce noise by up to 45 dB. It adjusts automatically based on surroundings and fit. Users also get four ANC modes: High, Mid, Low, and Adaptive, along with a Transparency Mode to let ambient sounds through when needed.
Other notable features include in-ear detection, dual connection, Google Fast Pair, and Microsoft Swift Pair. Buds are compatible with Android 6+ and iOS 13+. Users can control playback, calls, volume, and assistants via pinch gestures. The Essential Space app also integrates ChatGPT features. It offers AI-powered functionality for voice notes and smart controls.
The Ear (3) is IP54-rated for dust and water resistance, both for the earbuds and the case.
The Ear (3) offers up to 10 hours of playback per earbud with ANC off, and a total of 38 hours with the charging case. With ANC on, earbuds provide 5.5 hours, with 22 hours combined with the case. Fast charging is also supported. A 10-minute charge gives up to 10 hours of playback. Both USB-C and wireless charging are supported, including Qi wireless charging.
Specifications at a Glance
- Drivers: 12mm dynamic, PMI + TPU diaphragm
- Bluetooth: 5.4, AAC, SBC, LDAC, Hi-Res Audio
- Battery: 55mAh per earbud, 500mAh case
- Playback: Up to 10h earbuds (ANC off), 38h with case
- ANC: Up to 45dB, 4 modes, adaptive
- Microphones: 3 per earbud + VPU, Super Mic system in case
- Charging: USB-C + wireless, 10 min = 10h playback
- Water Resistance: IP54
- Dimensions/Weight: Earbud 30.5×21.5×20.75mm, 5.2g; Case 56×55.5×22.25mm, 71.4g
The Nothing Ear (3) will be available in black and white, priced at USD $179. Pre-orders start September 18, 2025, on nothing.tech and select partners, with general sales beginning September 25, 2025.
