Nothing and KEF have announced the launch of 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, bringing together what the companies say is their shared passion for innovation and design.
Acoustically co-engineered with British audio pioneer KEF, Headphone (1) the U.K.-based companies state the product 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-plus years of audio research and development with Nothing’s mission to make technology feel more expressive and human.
“This collaboration brings together KEF’s decades of acoustic expertise with Nothing’s bold design thinking,” says Jack Oclee-Brown, vice president of technology at KEF. “With Headphone (1), we’ve applied our high-fidelity engineering approach to create a headphone that delivers natural, balanced sound with incredible precision. It’s a proud moment for our ‘Sound by KEF’ initiative.”
Headphone (1) Loaded with Immersive Audio Capabilities
The new headphones incorporate a custom-built 40 mm dynamic driver, and offer a host of options including ANC (active noise cancelling) and spatial Audio. KEF notes the Headphone (1) also provides on-device spatialization and built-in head tracking, which the companies suggest can turn any stereo source into a 360-degree soundstage that adapts in real time to the listener’s movement.
KEF and Nothing point out the new headphones support for Hi-Res Audio, LDAC, USB-C lossless playback, and the product offers a 3.5mm connection.
Providing the unique user experience KEF and Nothing were seeking during the design process of the Headphone (1), the product takes a deliberate step away from touch sensors, opting instead for tactile controls built into the physical design. The roller, paddle, and button are designed to 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.
Expanding upon the user experience, both companies emphasize the headphones utilize transparent elements and premium materials like formed aluminum and PU memory foam. The lightweight ear cup combines aluminum and durable plastics for resilience, while the telescopic arms allow smooth adjustment. Oil-resistant ear cushions are used to naturally mould to the listener’s head, reducing ear pressure to provide a secure, comfortable seal for all-day usage across a wide range of head shapes.
Additionally, the Headphone (1) provides wireless Bluetooth 5.3, as well as up to 35 hours of listening time, and integrated ChatGPT for seamless, voice-activated access to information and everyday assistance.
“With Headphone (1), we set out to create something that doesn’t just sound great, it feels different the moment you pick it up,” comments Adam Bates, head of design at Nothing. “From the tactile controls to the transparent construction, every detail is intentional. It’s a product that looks different, works differently, and invites people to connect with sound in a more expressive way.”
MSRP for the headphones are $299.
