Nothing Ear (3a) earbuds are here for $99 — what’s new and how to buy

Nothing is back with a new pair of affordable earbuds, and the Nothing Ear (3a) are designed to stand out in a sea of lookalike wireless earbuds.

The latest entry in Nothing’s (a) series keeps the company’s transparent design language while adding new features focused on better sound, smarter recording tools, and everyday convenience.

Nothing’s latest earbuds build on the company’s popular (a) series with a handful of upgrades focused on smarter everyday use, better sound, and a more comfortable fit.

The biggest addition is Audio Snapshot, a new feature that lets you capture short audio moments directly from the earbuds. With a simple pinch gesture, Ear (3a) can save what you’re listening to, whether that’s part of a lecture, a useful conversation, or something you want to revisit later.

The earbuds also introduce call recording, allowing users to record calls and meetings directly from the earbuds without reaching for their phone. Recordings sync automatically to the Nothing X app, where they can be replayed, edited, and transcribed.

Beyond the new software tricks, Nothing has also refreshed the design with a new pink color option, a redesigned charging case, and an added XS ear tip size for a more comfortable fit.

Nothing Ear (3a) features and specs

Bigger drivers and Hi-Res audio support

The Ear (3a) comes with a new 12mm dynamic driver designed to deliver stronger bass and clearer detail. The earbuds also support Hi-Res Audio Wireless and LDAC, allowing compatible devices to stream higher-quality audio.

For listeners who like to fine-tune their sound, the Nothing X app includes an 8-band equalizer with customizable profiles.

Upgraded noise cancellation

Nothing says the Ear (3a) offers up to 45dB of Wideband Active Noise Cancellation, helping block out more everyday distractions like background conversations and city noise.

When you need to stay aware of your surroundings, Transparency Mode lets outside sounds come through. The earbuds also use three microphones on each side with AI-powered noise reduction to improve call clarity.

Battery life that lasts all day

The Ear (3a) delivers up to 10 hours of playback on the earbuds alone with ANC turned off, and up to 42 hours total with the charging case. With ANC enabled, battery life drops to up to six hours on the earbuds and 25 hours with the case. A quick five-minute charge gives around one hour of playback, which is handy when you’re running low.

Transparent design with a more comfortable fit

Nothing kept its recognizable transparent look but refined the design with a rounder charging case and improved ergonomics. The earbuds now come with an XS ear tip option, making them a better fit for more users. The updated LED indicator also makes it easier to check charging status, battery levels, and pairing progress.

Nothing X app and Nothing phone integration

The Nothing X app gives users access to EQ controls, firmware updates, Find My Earbuds, and other customization options. If paired with a Nothing smartphone, Ear (3a) also supports features like quick ChatGPT access and Essential News for hands-free updates.

Price and availability

The Nothing Ear (3a) are available from Nothing’s official website and select partners. They’re priced at $99 in the US, £99 in the UK, and €99 in Europe.