Nothing has officially unveiled the Ear (3), the latest iteration in its line of true wireless earbuds, priced at $179. This new model introduces the innovative ‘Super Mic’ feature and boasts a refined sound profile, building upon the foundation laid by its predecessors.
Design and Build
The Ear (3) maintains the signature transparent aesthetic that Nothing is known for but incorporates notable enhancements. The charging case now features a recycled metal base, adding a touch of sustainability and durability. The earbuds themselves have been subtly reshaped to improve comfort and include enhanced pressure venting, ensuring a more pleasant listening experience during extended use.
Battery Life and Charging
Equipped with slightly larger 55 mAh batteries in each earbud, the Ear (3) offers up to 5.5 hours of playback with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) enabled, a modest increase from the 5.2 hours provided by the previous model. The charging case retains its 500 mAh capacity and supports rapid charging, delivering 10 hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge.
Audio Performance
A significant upgrade in the Ear (3) is the transition from 11mm to 12mm dynamic drivers, aiming to deliver richer and more immersive sound quality. Users will notice a more pronounced emphasis on low-end frequencies, catering to those who prefer a bass-forward audio experience. Despite this shift, the tuning remains under Nothing’s direct oversight, ensuring consistency with the brand’s audio standards.
‘Super Mic’ Feature
The standout addition to the Ear (3) is the ‘Super Mic’ functionality. Integrated into the charging case are two microphones and a ‘Talk’ button, designed to enhance voice clarity in noisy environments. When engaged, the case acts as an external microphone, offering superior noise cancellation up to 95dB. This feature is particularly beneficial for phone calls, voice notes, and voice assistant interactions. Users can activate the ‘Super Mic’ by pressing the ‘Talk’ button during a call, allowing the case to capture their voice more effectively. Compatibility extends to major applications such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, WhatsApp, and WeChat. However, some apps, including certain voice recording and camera applications, may not support this feature.
Connectivity and Compatibility
The Ear (3) utilizes Bluetooth 5.4 technology, ensuring a stable and efficient connection. To use these earbuds, devices must run on at least Android 6.0 or iOS 13, accommodating a wide range of smartphones and tablets.
Pricing and Availability
With a price tag of $179, the Ear (3) is positioned as a premium offering in Nothing’s audio lineup. This marks a $30 increase from the previous model, reflecting the added features and improvements. The earbuds are available for purchase through Nothing’s official channels and select retailers.
Conclusion
The Nothing Ear (3) represents a thoughtful evolution in the company’s earbud series, blending aesthetic appeal with functional enhancements. The introduction of the ‘Super Mic’ feature addresses the need for clear communication in noisy settings, while the upgraded drivers and design refinements contribute to an improved overall user experience. Despite the higher price point, the Ear (3) offers compelling features that justify the investment for audio enthusiasts seeking quality and innovation.
