Nothing is once again leaning hard into its signature design language — and this time, it’s going over-the-ear. Following the success of the Ear (1) and the transparent trend it helped spark, the company is set to launch the Nothing Headphone (1) on July 1, alongside the much-anticipated Phone (3). Thanks to a fresh batch of real-world photos, we’re now getting our best look yet at what might be the most distinctive wireless headphones of the year.
And no, you’re not imagining it — those earcups look like cassette tapes.
Retro-futurism meets audio minimalism
The Headphone (1) embodies Nothing’s commitment to industrial design, fusing transparency with retro elements. The outer shell of each earcup features a clear panel exposing a faux cassette layout — complete with twin “reel” circles that resemble spools, playful indicators, and small etchings. It’s all deliberately analog in vibe, but housed within a sleek, modern frame.
Photos show both black and white variants, with matte-finished headbands and pill-shaped earcups that lack visible folding hinges. The design is clearly built for impact — functional minimalism fused with a nostalgic wink to Walkman-era gear.
KEF-tuned audio pedigree
Sound-wise, these aren’t just about looks. Nothing previously confirmed that Headphone (1) is co-developed with British audio specialist KEF, known for its high-fidelity speaker systems. That collaboration suggests Nothing is aiming to compete in the high-end headphone space — not just visually, but acoustically.
No full spec sheet is public yet, but KEF’s involvement sets high expectations for clarity, balance, and spatial performance, possibly pointing to custom drivers or tuned ANC.
Wired and wireless, with tactile controls
While Headphone (1) is primarily wireless — most likely supporting Bluetooth 5.x or LE Audio — one leaked image shows a 3.5mm jack, a rare but welcome nod to audio purists. It also means versatility across setups, from smartphones to studio gear.
Physical controls are present, with three tactile buttons visible across the outer edge and side of the cups. Unlike the trend toward touchpads, this suggests Nothing is going for precision and a slightly retro experience — another design decision echoing its cassette inspiration.
No fold, no case (yet)
Notably, there’s no hinge mechanism visible along the headband. That means these likely won’t fold inward like Sony’s WH-1000XM5 or Bose QC45 — a potential downside for portability, unless a flat-carry case is included (still unknown). However, the rigid design could mean better structural integrity and less wear over time.
Launch and pricing
The Nothing Headphone (1) will launch July 1 alongside the Phone (3), with pricing tipped at \$309 / €299 / £299. That places them squarely in premium territory, going head-to-head with Sony, Bose, and Apple’s AirPods Max — though with a unique aesthetic edge and KEF’s tuning on its side.
We’ll know more soon, but one thing is clear: these headphones aren’t trying to blend in. They’re here to make a statement — one that clicks, clacks, and possibly rewinds your expectations.