Nothing Ear (3) Unveiled: A Sound Upgrade in a Sleek New Case

Summary

• Nothing’s Ear (3) earbuds feature a new aluminum case with a Super Mic system
• The earbuds boast 45 dB Smart ANC, which is a significant upgrade from the Ear (2) , complete with 10 hours of playback
• Available for pre-order now

Following the success of its Headphone (1) and Phone (3), Nothing has unveiled its third-generation true wireless earbuds: the Ear (3). Building on the transparent design DNA of the Ear (2), the Ear (3) introduces key upgrades in materials, audio performance and usability.

The most striking update is a new charging case crafted entirely from recycled aluminum, replacing the Ear (2)’s plastic shell. The earbuds retain their minimalist housing, now elevated with refined metal accents. A dedicated “Talk” button on the case activates Nothing’s Super Mic system—a dual-microphone array that filters ambient noise up to 95 dB for crystal-clear calls and voice notes, a capability absent from the previous generation.

Inside each bud, three directional microphones and a bone-conduction Voice Pickup Unit (VPU) capture micro-vibrations from the jaw and ear canal, further isolating the user’s voice. Smart Adaptive Noise Cancellation reduces up to 45 dB of external sound – 5 dB more than the Ear (2) – and a transparency mode keeps wearers aware of their surroundings when needed.

Designed for both performance and convenience, the Ear (3) offers up to 10 hours of playback without ANC and up to 38 hours total with its case. A 10-minute quick-charge delivers 10 hours of use, and Qi wireless charging is supported. Additional features include pinch controls, in-ear detection, low-lag gaming mode, IP54 water and dust resistance, and seamless ChatGPT integration via the Essential Space app.

Available in Black and White for $179 USD, the Ear (3) is open for pre-order now, with official sales beginning September 25, 2025.