Nothing has unveiled its new Ear (3a), and its standout feature isn’t just better sound or stronger noise cancellation. Instead, the new wireless earbuds come with 32MB of built-in flash storage that enables a new Audio Snapshot feature.
This allows users to capture what they’re listening to directly from the earbuds without touching their phones.
Besides the new recording capabilities, the Ear (3a) also brings upgraded audio hardware, improved Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and a refreshed charging case.
Audio Snapshot is like taking a screenshot for sound
The headline feature is Audio Snapshot. Instead of having to manually start recording beforehand, users simply pinch both earbuds to capture what Nothing describes as an “audio screenshot”. The Ear (3a) saves audio from both before and after the trigger, so users won’t miss the important part they wanted to remember.
According to Nothing, Audio Snapshot is useful for capturing key moments from online lectures, podcasts, videos or even voice notes from friends without reaching for the phone.
Captured recordings are automatically synced to the Nothing X app, where users can replay, edit, share and generate transcripts. The app can also transform selected transcript excerpts into shareable quote cards, making it easier to revisit or share important points.
The Ear (3a) also introduces Call Recording, allowing users to record phone calls and meetings directly from the earbuds with a simple gesture. Recordings of up to approximately two hours are automatically synced to the Nothing X app for playback, editing and transcription, while participants are notified whenever recording is active.
It is worth noting that this isn’t the first pair of earbuds to feature built-in storage. Back in 2016, Samsung’s Gear IconX came with 4GB of onboard storage that let users store and play music without needing a connected smartphone. Nothing, however, is putting the built-in storage to a different use by allowing users to capture audio moments such as online lectures, podcasts and voice notes.
Bigger driver, stronger ANC and longer battery life
The Ear (3a) features a new 12mm dynamic driver with an aerospace-inspired PMI diaphragm. According to Nothing, the larger driver delivers bass frequencies that are up to 5dB stronger than its predecessor while maintaining detailed highs.
It is also certified for Hi-Res Audio Wireless and supports LDAC audio streaming at up to 24-bit/96kHz. Users can further personalise the sound with an 8-band equaliser in the Nothing X app, while Static Spatial Audio expands stereo audio into a wider soundstage for a more immersive listening experience.
For noise cancellation, the Ear (3a) offers up to 45dB of Wideband Active Noise Cancellation. Nothing says improvements to its acoustic mesh and ANC algorithm provide 17.1% better overall noise cancellation than the previous generation, while Transparency Mode lets users hear their surroundings when needed.
For hands-free conversations, it also comes with three microphones on each earbud working alongside an AI-powered noise reduction system to keep voices clear in noisy environments.
Redesigned case, IP54 durability and up to 42 hours of battery life
The Ear (3a) retains Nothing’s transparent design language but comes with a redesigned charging case featuring a rounder shape inspired by pill packets. Nothing has also introduced a new XS ear tip option for users with smaller ears, while the charging case now features a refined 1×3 LED status light to indicate battery level, charging status and pairing progress.
The earbuds support Bluetooth 6.0 with Dual Connection, allowing them to stay connected to two devices simultaneously. Other features include Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair, customisable pinch controls, in-ear detection that automatically pauses and resumes playback, and a Low Lag Mode for gaming.
Both the earbuds and charging case are rated IP54 for dust and splash resistance.
The Nothing Ear (3a) offers up to 10 hours of playback on the earbuds and up to 42 hours in total with the charging case when ANC is turned off. With ANC enabled, users can expect up to 6 hours from the earbuds and up to 25 hours in total.
A five-minute quick charge provides approximately one hour of playback.
The Nothing X app also provides EQ customisation, profile sharing, firmware updates, Find My Earbuds and Ear Tip Fit Test. When paired with Nothing smartphones, the earbuds can also access ChatGPT and Essential News for hands-free assistance.
Nothing Ear (3a) Malaysia pricing and availability
The Nothing Ear (3a) comes in Black, White, Yellow and the new Pink colour option. In the UK, it is priced at GBP 99 (about RM539), making it cheaper than the current Nothing Ear (3) priced at GBP 149 (officially priced at RM759 in Malaysia).
Nothing says Malaysian pricing and availability will be revealed at a later date.
