Introduction
Welcome to the user manual for your Nothing Headphone (a) wireless over-ear headphones. These headphones are designed to provide a high-quality audio experience with advanced features such as Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation, LDAC Hi-Res Wireless certification, and intuitive tactile controls. This manual will guide you through the setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your device.
Image: User wearing Nothing Headphone (a) for an immersive audio experience.
Video: An official overview of the Nothing Headphone (a), showcasing its design and key features.
What's in the Box
Upon unboxing your Nothing Headphone (a), you will find the following items:
- Nothing Headphone (a) x1
- Carry Pouch x1
- 3.5mm Audio Cable (1.2M) x1
- USB-C Cable (1.2M) x1 (for charging & USB Audio)
- User Manual x1
Setup
1. Charging Your Headphones
Before first use, fully charge your Nothing Headphone (a). Connect the provided USB-C cable to the charging port on the headphones and to a compatible USB power source. The LED charging status indicator will provide feedback on the charging process. A full charge takes approximately 2 hours and provides up to 135 hours of playback with ANC off, or 62 hours with ANC on (LDAC).
Image: Detail of the charging port and audio jack on the headphone.
2. Bluetooth Pairing
To pair your headphones with a device:
- Ensure the headphones are charged and powered on.
- Activate Bluetooth on your source device (smartphone, tablet, laptop).
- The headphones will automatically enter pairing mode or can be manually set to pairing mode via a dedicated button (refer to the 'Controls' section for button functions).
- Select "Nothing Headphone (a)" from the list of available Bluetooth devices on your source device.
- For Android devices, Google Fast Pair is supported for quick connection. For Windows devices, Microsoft Swift Pair is supported.
3. Nothing X App
Download the Nothing X app from your device's app store for enhanced control and customization. The app allows you to:
- Adjust Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) levels.
- Customize the Equalizer (EQ) and activate Ultra Bass.
- Manage Spatial Audio settings.
- Update firmware.
- Access other personalized settings.
Image: The Nothing X app interface for managing headphone settings.
Operating Instructions
1. Tactile Controls
Your Nothing Headphone (a) features intuitive tactile controls for easy management of your audio and calls:
- Roller: Rotate to adjust volume. Press once to play/pause media. Long-press to cycle through noise modes (ANC, Transparency, Off).
- Paddle: Short click for next track.
- Button: Defaults to launching your phone's smart assistant. Customizable via the Nothing X app to control camera shutter, switch audio apps, or mute the microphone.
Image: Detailed view of the headphone's tactile controls.
2. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) & Transparency Mode
The headphones feature Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation with Smart Adaptive Mode, which automatically adjusts to your surroundings. You can also manually select from four customizable ANC levels (High/Mid/Low/Adaptive) or activate Transparency Mode to hear your environment without removing the headphones. Cycle through these modes using the Roller control or the Nothing X app.
3. Spatial Audio & Hi-Res Wireless
Experience immersive audio with Spatial Audio and Hi-Res Wireless certification, supporting LDAC, AAC, and SBC codecs. Adjust Spatial Audio settings through the Nothing X app for a personalized listening experience.
4. Remote Camera Shutter
Utilize the customizable button on your headphones as a remote camera shutter. This feature allows for convenient photo and video capture, especially useful for selfies or group shots. On Nothing OS, it directly activates the camera and records with one press. On iOS & Android, it quickly captures or controls recording if the camera app is already open.
5. Dual Connection
The Nothing Headphone (a) supports dual connection, allowing you to seamlessly switch between two paired devices without needing to re-pair.
Maintenance
Proper care ensures the longevity and performance of your headphones:
- Cleaning: Gently wipe the earcups and headband with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
- Storage: When not in use, store the headphones in the provided carry pouch to protect them from dust and scratches.
- Water and Dust Resistance: The headphones have an IP52 rating, meaning they are protected against limited dust ingress and water spray from any direction. Avoid submerging them in water or exposing them to heavy rain.
- Battery Care: For optimal battery life, avoid fully discharging the headphones frequently. Charge them regularly.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Nothing Headphone (a), try the following steps:
- No Power: Ensure the headphones are fully charged. Connect them to a power source using the USB-C cable.
- Cannot Pair: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your device and the headphones are in pairing mode. Try turning Bluetooth off and on again on your device, or restarting both devices.
- No Sound: Check the volume levels on both the headphones and your connected device. Ensure the headphones are correctly paired. If using the 3.5mm audio cable, ensure it is securely connected.
- Poor Sound Quality: Check for interference from other wireless devices. Ensure your device is within the 10M Bluetooth range. Try disabling LDAC in the Nothing X app if you experience connection instability.
- ANC Not Working: Ensure ANC is enabled via the tactile roller or the Nothing X app.
- App Connection Issues: Ensure the Nothing X app is updated to the latest version. Restart the app and your headphones.
If problems persist, consult the Nothing support website or contact customer service.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Nothing |
| Model Name | Nothing Headphone (a) |
| Model Number | B186 |
| Ear Placement | Over Ear |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth, Hybrid, USB-C Audio, Wireless |
| Wireless Technology | Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Bluetooth Range | 10 Meters |
| Noise Control | Hybrid Noise Cancellation (Adaptive ANC up to 40dB) |
| Microphone Quantity | 5 HD Mics |
| Audio Codecs | AAC, SBC, LDAC (Hi-Res Wireless certified) |
| Audio Driver Type | Dynamic Driver |
| Audio Driver Size | 40 Millimeters |
| Impedance | 16 Ohms |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 124.5 dB |
| Battery Average Life (ANC off) | Up to 135 Hours (AAC), Up to 90 Hours (LDAC) |
| Battery Average Life (ANC on) | Up to 75 Hours (AAC), Up to 62 Hours (LDAC) |
| Talk Time (ANC off) | 72 Hours |
| Talk Time (ANC on) | 50 Hours |
| Battery Charge Time | 2 Hours (Type-C Wired) |
| Water Resistance Level | IP52 |
| Item Weight | 0.68 Pounds |
| Compatible Devices | Cellphones, Laptops, Tablets, Telephones |
Warranty and Support
Your Nothing Headphone (a) comes with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
For warranty claims, technical support, or further assistance, please visit the official Nothing support website or contact their customer service. You can also find more information and products on the Nothing Store on Amazon.
