A hearing technology startup named Legato revealed on Thursday that its flagship AI-based hearing glasses are now on the market. The new eyewear, known as Legato Frames, incorporates the company’s patented hearing assistance technology directly into the frames' arms. Priced starting at $999, these glasses are tailored for adults experiencing moderate hearing loss.
The development of these glasses reflects the startup's mission to make hearing care more accessible by tackling the challenges of cost, comfort, and stigma often linked to traditional hearing aids.
Unlike standard hearing aids that frequently rely on directional microphones to focus on specific sounds and may struggle in noisy settings, Legato utilizes a distinct approach. The glasses' AI-powered system separates voices from background noise, amplifying speech while simultaneously muting unwanted sounds.
Although the frames feature an open-ear design, audio is not broadcast to the surrounding environment. Instead, a dual-speaker system directs sound directly to the wearer while blocking sound leakage. This technology reduces sound leakage by 99% just a few inches away from the ear.
The company emphasizes that all processing occurs directly on the glasses, ensuring that no cameras or recording devices are involved.
The device weighs 34 grams when equipped with lenses and provides a battery life of 10 to 12 hours. Legato Frames are available in three distinctive styles and support prescription lenses as well as Bluetooth streaming for calls and music.
This official launch follows shortly after the startup emerged from stealth mode with $12 million in funding secured from Neotribe Ventures, Listen, and Village Global.
Established in 2024 by Mehul Trivedi and Steve Romine, Legato brings extensive expertise in wearables and hearing care. Before founding the company, Trivedi led the creation of Bose Frames at Bose and later managed smart eyewear efforts at EssilorLuxottica, including work on the Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses. Romine previously headed the hearing aids division at Bose and served as COO of the hearing care company Audicus. Together, they combined their experiences to explore the intersection of hearing technology and smart eyewear.
Legato Frames can be purchased directly from the startup’s website or through select U.S. eye care providers. Additionally, they are eligible for coverage under vision insurance plans.
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