Just a few hours before its official launch, the Nothing Ear (3a) has leaked completely, giving us a good look at what the company is about to share.
These new true wireless earbuds are gearing up to be one of the most intriguing affordable audio products of 2026, merging Nothing’s signature see-through design with top-notch audio features like Sony’s LDAC codec.
Official Launch Just Around the Corner
Nothing is set to officially unveil the Ear (3a) on July 7, but a fresh leak from Winfuture has already revealed high-resolution product images along with key specifications.
According to the report, the images surfaced from an online retailer ahead of schedule, giving us an early preview of the earbuds in all available colors.
The Nothing Ear (3a) will reportedly launch in four color options: white, black, yellow, and pink.
The addition of brighter shades like yellow and pink suggests Nothing is continuing its focus on bold, youthful design choices.
Familiar Transparent Design with Subtle Refinements
Design has always been a major selling point for Nothing, and the Ear (3a) stays true to that identity.
The leaked images show a charging case with a transparent lid, allowing users to see the earbuds inside without opening it — a signature look that fans will instantly recognize.
The earbuds themselves also feature partially transparent elements, especially around the stem.
While the overall shape appears similar to the previous Nothing Ear (a), the refined finish and color options give it a fresh appeal.
Big Audio Upgrade: Sony LDAC and 12mm Drivers
One of the biggest highlights from the leak is the inclusion of Sony LDAC support — a feature rarely seen in earbuds at this price range.
LDAC allows high-resolution audio streaming at up to 32-bit/96 kHz with a maximum bitrate of 990 kbps, offering significantly better sound quality compared to standard Bluetooth codecs.
In addition, the Nothing Ear (3a) is expected to feature 12mm dynamic drivers. Larger drivers typically deliver stronger bass and a fuller sound profile, which could make these earbuds stand out in the budget segment.
Smart Controls and Expected ANC Support
The leak also points to touch-sensitive controls on the earbuds’ stem. Interestingly, users may be able to record voice memos directly by interacting with the earbuds — a unique feature that could appeal to students, creators, and professionals.
While not officially confirmed, active noise cancellation (ANC) is highly expected.
The previous Nothing Ear (a) already offered ANC, so it would be surprising if the new model skipped this feature. If included, it would further boost the value proposition of the Ear (3a).
Aggressive Pricing Could Be a Game Changer
Perhaps the most exciting part of this leak is the rumored pricing. The Nothing Ear (3a) is expected to launch at around €99, positioning it firmly in the affordable segment.
Considering the combination of LDAC support, large drivers, potential ANC, and a premium design, this pricing could make the Ear (3a) one of the best value-for-money wireless earbuds on the market.
Source: Winfuture| Nothing (X)
Nick, the Co-founder of Earbuds Arena, is a seasoned freelance tech journalist with over ten years of experience covering wearables, apps, headphones, and gadgets. When he’s not immersed in the tech world, you’ll likely find him unwinding with video games, going for a run, or enjoying a game of soccer on the field.
