Nothing has once again shaken up the TWS earphone space with the official debut of its new Nothing Ear (3). 
Building on the brand’s recognizable transparent aesthetic, this latest generation introduces not only design refinements but also a significant new feature aimed at solving one of the most persistent complaints in wireless audio: poor microphone quality.
The Ear (3) case now incorporates aluminum elements, lending it both durability and a more premium feel compared to its predecessors. Beyond aesthetics, the star of the show is the Super Mic feature. Integrated into the charging case, it uses a dual-microphone array and advanced noise suppression capable of reducing up to 95 dB of background interference. A new ‘Talk’ button on the case activates the system, which works not just for calls but also for recording clear voice notes directly into native memo apps on both iOS and Android. For those who spend time on video calls or podcasts, this feature could be a real game-changer.
Each individual earbud isn’t left behind either. They’re equipped with a three-microphone system, plus a bone-conduction sensor that captures vibrations of your voice, adding clarity and reducing muffled speech. Alongside this, the adaptive noise cancellation system now reaches up to 45 dB, dynamically adjusting in real time to block distractions in different environments.
On the audio front, Nothing fits the Ear (3) with 12mm dynamic drivers designed for bigger bass response and a wider soundstage. Support for LDAC, AAC, and SBC ensures compatibility across devices, while static Spatial Audio adds a sense of immersion, especially for movies and gaming. Connectivity comes via Bluetooth 5.4 with dual-device pairing, a choice that some audiophiles might side-eye given the arrival of Bluetooth 6.0, but in practice, 5.4 still strikes a solid balance of stability and efficiency.
Extra features include in-ear detection, Hi-Res certification, a low-latency mode for gaming, and IP54 splash resistance on both buds and the case. Battery performance remains a highlight: each bud carries a 55 mAh cell offering up to 10 hours of playback without ANC, or 5.5 hours with it engaged. The case packs a 500 mAh unit extending total usage to around 38 additional hours. Both fast charging and wireless charging are supported, further cementing practicality.
Nothing is pricing the Ear (3) at $179/€179, available in both White and Black options, with sales beginning September 25. It’s positioned as a stylish yet functional choice for those who want standout design and practical improvements in microphone performance – a space where wireless buds have often lagged. Whether the Super Mic lives up to the promise remains to be seen in real-world tests, but at least on paper, Nothing seems serious about addressing one of the TWS market’s biggest weak points.