Nothing's rumored Headphone (a) could launch soon, with leaks pointing to a March 5 announcement and March 12 release date. The over-ear headphones are expected to cost around $200, positioning them between Nothing's existing $299 Headphone 1 and the CMF Headphone Pro. This would mark Nothing's latest expansion into the crowded budget audio market.

CEO Carl Pei recently signaled the company's intent to double down on over-ear headphones in 2026, though this isn't direct confirmation of the Headphone (a)'s release. The leak suggests the headphones will feature a plastic build rather than the metal design of the Headphone 1, potentially allowing for similar audio drivers at a lower price point. European pricing is reportedly set at €159 and £149.

However, the crowded Nothing and CMF lineups raise questions about market need. With the CMF Headphone Pro already offering solid performance at a lower price, the Headphone (a) faces pressure to justify its existence. Success will depend on delivering clear improvements over the Pro while maintaining enough differentiation from the premium Headphone 1 to avoid cannibalizing sales.