Nothing has officially unveiled the Nothing Headphone 1 Pro, its latest premium over-ear wireless headphones, bringing a major upgrade to the company’s personal audio lineup.
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The new headphones introduce a triple-driver audio architecture, improved active noise cancellation, studio-inspired sound tuning and a redesigned construction that retains Nothing’s distinctive transparent aesthetic.
Priced at $399 in the United States, the Headphone (1) Pro arrives as a more advanced successor to the original Nothing Headphone (1). The new model is designed for music enthusiasts, commuters, professionals and content creators who want high-quality wireless audio combined with practical everyday features.
Among the biggest upgrades are three dedicated drivers in each earcup, including an xMEMS treble driver, support for LDAC and high-resolution audio, and adaptive active noise cancellation rated at up to 46dB.
Nothing has also introduced a Flat EQ switch developed with Metropolis Studios, allowing users to switch between their preferred sound profile and a more neutral listening mode.
With Bluetooth 6.1, Auracast support, spatial audio with head tracking and up to 68 hours of battery life with ANC disabled, the Headphone (1) Pro represents a substantial expansion of Nothing’s premium audio ambitions.
Nothing Headphone (1) Pro: Key Specifications
| Feature | Nothing Headphone (1) Pro |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Over-ear wireless headphones |
| Driver System | Triple-driver architecture |
| Bass Driver | 40mm dynamic driver |
| Precision Driver | 13 × 8mm dynamic driver |
| Treble Driver | xMEMS solid-state driver |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz–40kHz |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Adaptive ANC, up to 46dB |
| Microphones | 10 microphones |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 6.1 |
| Audio Codecs | AAC, SBC, LDAC and LC3 for broadcast audio |
| Battery Life | Up to 68 hours with ANC off |
| Battery Life With ANC | Up to 30 hours with AAC |
| Fast Charging | 5 minutes for up to 4 hours of playback with ANC off |
| Wired Audio | USB-C and 3.5mm audio connection |
| Weight | 327g |
| Water and Dust Resistance | IP52 |
| US Launch Price | $399 |
Specifications are based on Nothing’s official product information. Battery life and charging performance vary depending on codec, volume, ANC settings and usage conditions.
1. Nothing Headphone (1) Pro Launch: What’s New?
The Nothing Headphone (1) Pro builds on the company’s first-generation Headphone (1), introducing improvements to audio hardware, noise cancellation, comfort and wireless connectivity.
Nothing’s latest release focuses on providing a more detailed listening experience while giving users additional control over how their music sounds.
The original Headphone (1) established the company’s over-ear headphone design language, combining transparent elements, physical controls and a distinctive industrial appearance. The Pro version retains that identity while introducing a more sophisticated audio system.
The new headphones are designed for both everyday listening and more demanding applications, including music production, audio monitoring and extended listening sessions.
One of the most important changes is the triple-driver arrangement. Instead of relying on a single conventional driver in each earcup, the Headphone (1) Pro uses dedicated drivers for bass, midrange precision and treble reproduction.
Nothing has also expanded its software-based listening features through the Nothing X app, which provides sound customisation, connectivity settings and access to additional headphone controls.
2. Design and Build Quality: Transparent Aesthetics With Premium Materials
The Nothing Headphone (1) Pro continues the company’s recognisable design language, combining transparent elements with machined metal components and a more refined over-ear construction.
Transparent Design and Scratch-Resistant Glass
The headphones feature transparent 9H Panda Glass panels that reveal parts of the internal design, including elements associated with the triple-driver architecture.
The glass is designed to improve resistance to scratches and everyday wear while preserving the transparent appearance that distinguishes Nothing products from conventional headphones.
Nothing has also incorporated aluminium machined from a single block and titanium-alloy arms.
According to the company, the new titanium alloy arms are approximately 45% lighter than those used in the original Headphone (1), contributing to the updated construction.
The combination of metal, glass and cushioned earcups gives the headphones a premium appearance while maintaining Nothing’s minimalist industrial styling.
Improved Comfort and Fit
Comfort is another area receiving attention in the Headphone (1) Pro.
Nothing says the dual-layer ear cushions are 50% softer than those of the original Headphone (1) and are designed to adapt more effectively to different ear shapes.
The ear cushions are also intended to accommodate glasses more comfortably, potentially reducing pressure around the temples during longer listening sessions.
The headband is approximately 10% wider, while its padding is 12% thicker, according to Nothing.
These changes are intended to distribute pressure more evenly across the head and improve comfort during extended use.
The headphones weigh approximately 327g, placing them in the premium over-ear category. Actual comfort will still depend on head shape, ear size and individual preferences.
IP52 Protection and Carrying Case
The Headphone (1) Pro carries an IP52 rating for dust and water resistance.
This provides a degree of protection against dust and limited water exposure, making the headphones more suitable for everyday use than completely unprotected audio equipment.
However, the IP52 rating does not make the headphones waterproof. They should not be submerged or exposed to heavy rain or excessive moisture.
Nothing includes a hard-shell carrying case with protective TPU lining. The case also features loops that allow users to attach straps, carabiners and compatible accessories.
The headphones do not fold into a compact form, so the carrying case is particularly relevant for people who regularly travel with them.
3. Triple-Driver Audio System: The Biggest Upgrade
The most significant technical change in the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro is its triple-driver audio architecture.
Each earcup contains three separate drivers designed to handle different parts of the audio frequency range. This arrangement is intended to improve bass response, vocal clarity and high-frequency detail.
The system includes a 40mm dynamic bass driver, a 13 × 8mm precision dynamic driver and a solid-state xMEMS treble driver.
40mm Dynamic Bass Driver
The 40mm dynamic driver handles low-frequency reproduction, including bass notes, kick drums and the lower frequencies found in electronic music, hip-hop and other bass-heavy genres.
Nothing says the new dual-magnetic system delivers 15% more bass punch and 26% greater sensitivity compared with the previous Headphone (1).
The driver uses a PET dome with a metal-ceramic coating, which is designed to reduce distortion at higher listening levels.
The objective is to produce a stronger low-frequency response while maintaining clarity across the rest of the audio spectrum.
For listeners who enjoy bass-oriented music, the updated driver architecture is intended to provide a more controlled and powerful listening experience.
Precision Driver for Vocals and Midrange Detail
The second driver is a 13 × 8mm precision dynamic driver featuring a PEN diaphragm.
This driver is designed to handle midrange frequencies, including vocals, guitars, pianos and many of the sounds that define the character of recorded music.
Nothing says the PEN diaphragm improves the reproduction of vocal details, including subtle articulation and the textures associated with speech and singing.
Midrange clarity is particularly important for podcasts, acoustic music, dialogue-heavy videos and vocal-focused recordings.
By assigning a dedicated driver to this frequency range, Nothing aims to provide greater separation between different elements of a recording.
xMEMS Treble Driver
The third component is a solid-state xMEMS treble driver measuring 3.2 × 6.0 × 1.15mm.
xMEMS technology uses a solid-state speaker structure designed for precise high-frequency reproduction.
Nothing says the silicon diaphragm used in the treble driver is approximately 95 times stiffer than conventional plastic, allowing it to respond quickly to changes in the audio signal.
The driver is designed to reproduce high-frequency details associated with cymbals, strings, percussion and other instruments.
The three-driver configuration provides a technical foundation for the headphones’ emphasis on detail and separation, although the final sound quality will also depend on tuning, fit, recording quality and listening preferences.
4. Metropolis Studios Tuning and Flat EQ Mode
Nothing has collaborated with London’s Metropolis Studios to develop the Headphone (1) Pro’s sound tuning.
The partnership focuses on providing a listening experience that can appeal to both everyday music listeners and users who prefer a more neutral sound profile.
Flat EQ Switch
One of the most distinctive features is the dedicated Flat EQ switch.
The switch allows users to move between their usual sound settings and a flatter, more neutral audio profile.
When Flat EQ is enabled, the headphones disable selected sound-processing adjustments to provide a less processed listening experience.
This feature is intended for users who want to hear recordings with a more neutral tonal balance, particularly when evaluating music or working with audio.
It also provides a quick way to compare a customised sound profile with a more neutral presentation without navigating through the smartphone application.
However, Flat EQ should not be confused with professional studio reference headphones. The Headphone (1) Pro remains a consumer wireless product, and its frequency response, drivers and acoustic design still influence the sound.
Customisable Sound Through Nothing X
The Nothing X application provides additional sound customisation options.
Users can adjust their preferred audio settings, manage supported listening modes and configure selected headphone controls.
The app also provides access to Personal Sound features, allowing compatible settings to be adjusted according to the user’s listening preferences.
These tools give users greater flexibility than relying on a single fixed sound profile.
5. Active Noise Cancellation: Up to 46dB With 10 Microphones
The Nothing Headphone (1) Pro introduces upgraded active noise cancellation, with Nothing advertising noise reduction of up to 46dB under specified conditions.
The system uses 10 microphones distributed across the headphones to monitor external noise and support both ANC and voice-related features.
Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation
The adaptive ANC system analyses surrounding noise and the fit of the earcups to adjust noise cancellation automatically.
This is designed to provide more consistent performance in changing environments, including public transport, offices and other noisy locations.
Nothing has also introduced an 8mm silicone baffle wall that helps create a seal around the earcups.
The ear cushions and acoustic sealing system are designed to reduce the amount of outside sound reaching the listener before electronic noise cancellation is applied.
The company says the updated microphone system improves the headphones’ ability to filter environmental noise, including noise encountered in windy conditions.
Transparency Mode
Transparency Mode allows users to hear sounds from their surroundings without removing the headphones.
The feature is intended for situations where awareness of nearby people, announcements or traffic is important.
Nothing says the mode is designed to preserve the natural character of voices, making conversations more convenient while wearing the headphones.
Actual ANC and transparency performance will depend on fit, background noise, microphone conditions and individual listening environments.
6. Spatial Audio and Head Tracking
The Headphone (1) Pro supports Dynamic Spatial Audio with upgraded head tracking.
Spatial audio is designed to create a more immersive listening experience by positioning sound around the listener rather than presenting all audio as coming directly from the left and right earcups.
Head tracking can adjust the perceived position of audio as the listener moves their head, helping maintain a more consistent virtual soundstage.
This can be useful for supported music, films and other compatible audio content.
However, the effectiveness of spatial audio depends on the content, the application and the way the feature is implemented.
It should not be assumed that every stereo recording will automatically produce the same immersive effect.
7. Battery Life and Fast Charging
Battery life is one of the major selling points of the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro.
Nothing advertises up to 68 hours of playback with active noise cancellation disabled using AAC audio.
When ANC is enabled, the headphones are rated for up to 30 hours of playback using AAC.
Battery life is lower when using LDAC, with up to 53 hours of playback with ANC off and up to 28 hours with ANC enabled.
| Listening Mode | Advertised Battery Life |
|---|---|
| AAC, ANC Off | Up to 68 hours |
| AAC, ANC On | Up to 30 hours |
| LDAC, ANC Off | Up to 53 hours |
| LDAC, ANC On | Up to 28 hours |
The headphones include a rechargeable 1,060mAh lithium-ion battery.
Fast Charging
Nothing says a five-minute charge provides up to four hours of playback with ANC disabled.
With ANC enabled, a five-minute charge provides up to two hours of listening time.
The headphones use USB-C for charging, with a full charging time of approximately two hours under the manufacturer’s stated conditions.
These charging capabilities are useful for commuters and travellers who may need to recharge their headphones shortly before leaving home.
Actual battery life will vary depending on volume, codec, noise cancellation, wireless conditions and other settings.
8. Bluetooth 6.1, LDAC and High-Resolution Audio
The Nothing Headphone (1) Pro supports Bluetooth 6.1, bringing updated wireless connectivity and support for multiple connection modes.
The headphones can connect to compatible smartphones, tablets and computers, with dual-device connectivity allowing two devices to remain connected simultaneously.
For example, users can connect the headphones to a laptop and smartphone and switch between audio from the two devices.
LDAC and Hi-Res Audio
The headphones support LDAC, AAC and SBC for wireless music playback.
LDAC is designed to transmit higher-resolution audio over compatible Bluetooth connections, although actual audio quality depends on the source recording, device compatibility and wireless conditions.
The Headphone (1) Pro is certified for Hi-Res Audio in wired and wireless listening modes.
Through USB-C, the headphones support lossless high-resolution playback at up to 24-bit/192kHz.
The 3.5mm audio connection supports high-resolution audio at up to 24-bit/96kHz.
For listeners who prefer a wired connection, the inclusion of both USB-C audio and a conventional 3.5mm connection provides additional flexibility.
Auracast and Broadcast Audio
The Headphone (1) Pro supports Auracast broadcast audio, allowing compatible devices to transmit audio to multiple supported headphones simultaneously.
This technology can be useful in shared listening environments and compatible public audio systems.
Auracast uses the LC3 codec for broadcast audio on supported devices.
The feature requires compatible source hardware and software, so its availability will depend on the connected device and broadcast system.
9. Call Quality, Controls and Smart Features
Nothing has equipped the Headphone (1) Pro with a microphone system designed to improve voice calls and voice recordings.
The Environmental Noise Cancellation system uses microphones and software processing to reduce unwanted background sounds during calls.
Nothing says the voice-processing technology was trained using 30 million scenarios to improve voice clarity in different environments.
The headphones also include physical controls that allow users to manage playback and settings without relying entirely on a smartphone.
Roller Control
The roller provides volume adjustment through physical rotation.
Pressing the roller controls playback, while holding it can switch between ANC and Transparency Mode.
Paddle Control
The paddle allows users to skip tracks, navigate audio and control supported call functions.
It can also be used for fast-forwarding and other playback actions, depending on the selected control configuration.
Customisable Button
The dedicated button can be configured through the Nothing X application.
Supported functions include accessing a smart assistant, activating compatible ChatGPT features and using the headphones as a camera shutter control.
Availability of individual functions may depend on the connected smartphone, installed applications and software version.
Automatic Wear Detection
The Headphone (1) Pro includes automatic wear detection.
The headphones can pause playback when removed and resume playback when worn again, depending on the settings and connected device.
This feature is designed to make everyday listening more convenient and can also help reduce unnecessary playback when the headphones are not being used.
10. Nothing Headphone (1) Pro Price and Availability
Nothing has positioned the Headphone (1) Pro above its previous over-ear headphones, reflecting its upgraded audio architecture and additional features.
United States Pricing and Availability
The Nothing Headphone (1) Pro is priced at $399 in the United States.
North American availability begins September 29, 2026, through Nothing’s official store, Amazon and Best Buy locations.
The US price places the headphones in the premium wireless over-ear category, where buyers can compare features such as high-resolution audio, active noise cancellation, comfort and battery life.
Availability in Europe
The Headphone (1) Pro has been announced for international markets, but country-specific European pricing and retail availability should be confirmed through Nothing’s official regional stores.
European retail prices may differ from the US price because of VAT, distribution costs, currency exchange rates and local pricing policies.
Buyers should check their local Nothing website for current pricing, delivery options and warranty coverage.
Availability in Asia
Nothing’s regional online stores provide product information and purchasing options for selected Asian markets.
However, the exact retail price and availability date may differ between countries.
Consumers should check local listings for confirmed prices, shipping arrangements and official warranty support before purchasing.
Availability in Other Markets
Availability in other countries will depend on Nothing’s distribution partners and regional launch plans.
Consumers purchasing imported headphones should confirm compatibility, warranty coverage and whether local support is available.
11. Nothing Headphone (1) Pro vs Original Headphone (1)
The Headphone (1) Pro builds on the original Nothing Headphone (1), with several changes to the audio system, comfort and connectivity.
| Feature | Headphone (1) Pro | Original Headphone (1) |
|---|---|---|
| Driver Architecture | Triple-driver system | Single dynamic driver per earcup |
| Treble Technology | xMEMS solid-state driver | Conventional dynamic driver architecture |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Up to 46dB, adaptive | Earlier-generation ANC system |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 6.1 | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Battery Life | Up to 68 hours with ANC off | Up to 80 hours with ANC off |
| Sound Customisation | Flat EQ switch and Metropolis tuning | Customisable EQ and sound profiles |
| Construction | Updated titanium-alloy arms and 9H Panda Glass | Original transparent industrial design |
The Pro model focuses on improving sound separation, treble reproduction, noise cancellation and comfort.
However, the original Headphone (1) advertises a longer maximum battery life with ANC disabled. This means buyers should consider whether the Pro’s additional audio and connectivity features justify its higher price and revised battery rating.
12. Who Should Consider the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro?
The Headphone (1) Pro is designed for several types of users.
Music Enthusiasts
The triple-driver architecture, LDAC support and sound customisation features are designed for listeners who want detailed audio reproduction and greater control over their listening experience.
Commuters and Frequent Travellers
The adaptive ANC system, Transparency Mode and long advertised battery life make the headphones relevant to people who regularly travel by public transport or spend time in busy environments.
Content Creators and Audio Professionals
The Flat EQ switch, wired audio connections and high-resolution playback options may appeal to creators who need flexible listening tools.
However, the headphones should not automatically be considered a replacement for calibrated studio monitors or professional reference headphones.
Everyday Smartphone Users
Bluetooth multipoint, automatic wear detection, physical controls and compatibility with Android and iOS make the headphones suitable for everyday listening across multiple devices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the price of the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro?
The Nothing Headphone (1) Pro is priced at $399 in the United States. Prices in other countries may differ depending on regional taxes, currency exchange rates and distribution costs.
2. When does the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro go on sale?
North American availability begins September 29, 2026, through Nothing’s official store, Amazon and Best Buy locations.
3. How long does the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro battery last?
The headphones offer up to 68 hours of playback with ANC disabled using AAC. With ANC enabled, the advertised battery life is up to 30 hours using AAC.
4. Does the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro support active noise cancellation?
Yes. The headphones feature adaptive active noise cancellation rated at up to 46dB, supported by a 10-microphone system.
5. Does the Headphone (1) Pro support LDAC?
Yes. The headphones support LDAC, AAC and SBC for wireless music playback. They also support high-resolution wired audio through USB-C and a 3.5mm audio connection.
6. What is the Flat EQ feature?
Flat EQ is a dedicated switch that allows users to move between their usual sound settings and a flatter, more neutral listening profile developed with input from Metropolis Studios.
7. Does the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro work with iPhones?
Yes. The headphones support iOS and Android devices. They also support Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair and Apple’s compatible setup features.
8. Is the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro waterproof?
No. The headphones carry an IP52 dust and water resistance rating. They are not designed for submersion or heavy water exposure.
Sources and Further Reading
