Nothing Headphone 1 Launching on July 1: Retro Design, KEF Partnership, and Everything You Need to Know

Tech enthusiasts, mark your calendars! London-based tech brand Nothing is all set to launch its highly anticipated Nothing Headphone 1 on July 1, alongside the upcoming Nothing Phone 3. This marks the company’s first foray into the over-the-ear headphone segment, and it’s already generating buzz, thanks to its unique retro design and a strategic audio partnership.

If you’re curious about what makes the Nothing Headphone 1 special, here’s everything you need to know, from its design and features to expected pricing and availability.

Highlights

Nothing Headphone 1: A New Era for Nothing Audio Products

Up until recently, Nothing had focused on launching true wireless earbuds like the Nothing Ear (1), Ear (2), and most recently, the Ear (stick). However, the upcoming Nothing Headphone 1 represents a major leap as the brand ventures into the premium over-ear headphones category.

This launch is particularly significant because it pairs with the much-awaited Nothing Phone (3), forming a complete ecosystem that the company has been slowly building.

India Launch Confirmed

Nothing’s co-founder, Akis Evangelidis, confirmed that the Nothing Headphone 1 will debut in India and global markets at the same time on July 1, 2025. This ensures Indian consumers won’t have to wait weeks after the global launch to get their hands on the latest gear — a welcome move from the brand.

A Retro Design That Stands Out

One of the most talked-about aspects of the Nothing Headphone 1 is its bold, retro-inspired design. Leaked renders and hands-on images have revealed a product that looks nothing like typical modern headphones.

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According to a well-known leak source, Equal Leaks on X (formerly Twitter), the design sticks to Nothing’s trademark transparent aesthetic. Think clear plastic elements, futuristic curves, and a dash of nostalgia, reminiscent of vintage cassette players from the 80s and 90s.

Color Options and Build

From the leaked images shared by Nothing Fan Blog on Instagram, the headphones are expected to come in at least two colors:

• White with silver inserts
• Black with dark grey accents

Each earcup is built with a rectangular base topped by a transparent oval island, connected seamlessly to a thick, cushioned headband. The transparent shell offers a glimpse of the inner hardware, adding a unique tech appeal.

Ports, Buttons, and Connectivity

The design leaks also reveal several ports and physical controls:

• A USB Type-C port for charging
• A 3.5mm headphone jack for wired connectivity (a rare addition these days!)
• At least three physical buttons, possibly for volume control, playback, and power

All these controls appear to be located on a single earcup, which could enhance usability.

Premium Sound with KEF Collaboration

One of the most exciting developments is Nothing’s strategic partnership with British audio company KEF, a brand known for its high-end loudspeakers and audio systems.

On one of the earcups, branding shows “Sound by KEF”, suggesting that Nothing Headphone 1 will offer superior sound quality, balanced tuning, and possibly custom audio drivers developed in collaboration with KEF. This partnership positions the Headphone 1 as more than just a stylish accessory — it’s built to deliver an audiophile-grade listening experience.

Expected Price and Availability

Global Pricing

According to leaked sources:

• USA: $309 (approx. ₹26,800)
• UK: £299 (approx. ₹35,000)

India Price (Expected)

While Nothing hasn’t officially announced the India price, we can expect a competitive launch considering Nothing’s pricing strategy in the past. A price between ₹25,000 and ₹30,000 is likely for the Indian market.

What to Expect on Launch Day

On July 1, 2025, Nothing will unveil both the Phone (3) and Headphone (1), likely during a global live event. Here’s what fans can expect:

• Full specs reveal of Headphone (1)
• In-depth sound features, possibly with noise cancellation and KEF tuning
• Official India pricing and availability
• Pre-order offers or bundle discounts with the Phone (3)

Final Thoughts: Is the Nothing Headphone 1 Worth the Hype?

The Nothing Headphone 1 combines style, nostalgia, and modern tech, making it a compelling choice for anyone looking for premium headphones with unique design appeal. The KEF partnership adds credibility on the audio front, and the transparent build continues Nothing’s bold design philosophy.

For users in India and across the globe, July 1 is shaping up to be a big day. If the final product lives up to the leaks, the Nothing Headphone 1 might just be the coolest headphones you can wear in 2025.