Nothing and KEF have launched Headphone (1), the first collaborative product between the two British brands. Headphone (1) is Nothing’s first over-ear audio product and the debut device created through its partnership with KEF under the Sound by KEF initiative.
Acoustically co-engineered with British audio pioneer KEF, Headphone (1) combines high-fidelity acoustics with Nothing’s distinctive design language, intuitive tactile controls, and immersive user experience.
This launch marks the beginning of a long-term partnership between Nothing and KEF, uniting KEF’s 60+ years of audio innovation with Nothing’s mission to make technology feel more expressive and human.
The sound of Headphone (1) is acoustically engineered using KEF’s advanced tuning tools and deep acoustic knowledge. The result is immersive audio that feels detailed, lifelike, and true across every genre. A custom-built 40mm dynamic driver delivers rich, natural sound with deep bass, detailed mids, and crisp treble across all modes, including ANC, Transparency, and Spatial Audio.
With on-device spatialization and built-in head tracking, Headphone (1) transforms any stereo source into a 360-degree soundstage that adapts in real time to the listener’s movement. With support for Hi-Res Audio, LDAC, USB-C lossless playback, and a 3.5mm jack, Headphone (1) delivers exceptional sound — wired or wireless. A precision damping system and high-linearity suspension further minimize distortion so every track sounds exactly as the artist intended.
Featuring iconic transparent elements and premium materials like formed aluminum and PU memory foam, Headphone (1) is built for comfort and visual impact. The lightweight ear cup combines aluminum and durable plastics for resilience, while the telescopic arms allow smooth adjustment. Oil-resistant ear cushions mold naturally to the listener’s head, reducing ear pressure and providing a secure, comfortable seal for all-day wear across a wide range of head shapes.
Designed to be remembered, its sleek lines mirror the acoustic precision within – where every curve, cut, and cavity is built to unify form and function.
Headphone (1) takes a deliberate step away from touch sensors, opting instead for tactile controls built into the physical design. The Roller, Paddle, and Button provide a more precise and reliable way to adjust volume, navigate media, and toggle ANC without the guesswork or friction often associated with touch interfaces. By integrating these controls directly into the headphones, Headphone (1) prioritizes usability and responsiveness, offering a more intuitive and satisfying listening experience.
Featuring dual feedforward and feedback microphones, Headphone (1)’s real-time ANC dynamically adapts to changing environments, while Transparency Mode keeps users aware of their surroundings. A best-in-class 4-mic ENC system, powered by AI and trained on more than 28 million noise scenarios, ensures clear voice capture for calls in even the busiest environments.
Headphone (1) delivers up to 35 hours of listening time, and a quick 5-minute charge provides 2.4 hours of playback, all with ANC on. With Bluetooth 5.3, dual device connection, Fast Pair support, and low-latency performance, switching between devices is fast and seamless.
Headphone (1) integrates ChatGPT for seamless, voice-activated access to information, inspiration, and everyday assistance. By customizing the Button actions in the Nothing X app, users can trigger voice assistants, access News Reporter, or open Nothing’s Essential Space — a second memory designed to capture voice notes, reminders, and fleeting thoughts.
The Button also enables a personalized listening experience with Channel Hop, allowing users to cycle seamlessly through recent audio apps and favorite functions without scrolling through libraries or switching apps. It’s a time-saving feature built for convenience, particularly during activities like exercising or commuting.
An 8-band Advanced EQ in the Nothing X app lets users fine-tune audio beyond treble and bass for a customized sound experience.
Headphone (1) will be available in black and white for $299 at nothing.tech, us.KEF.com, all KEF Music Gallery locations and KEF Music Studio. Pre-orders begin July 4 in selected regions, with open sales starting July 15.
For more information, visit us.KEF.com.
