Legato has made a significant move in the hearing tech industry with the launch of its AI-powered hearing glasses, called Legato Frames. Starting at $999, these glasses are designed for adults experiencing up to moderate levels of hearing loss. This launch seeks to tackle the major barriers of cost, comfort, and stigma often associated with traditional hearing aids.
What makes Legato Frames unique is their departure from conventional hearing aid designs. Traditional hearing aids often rely on directional microphones, which can struggle in noisy settings. In contrast, Legato’s system employs artificial intelligence to separate voices from background noise, enhancing speech clarity while reducing distracting sounds.
The design of Legato Frames is also impressive. They feature an open-ear configuration, meaning sound isn’t broadcast for others to hear. Instead, the dual-speaker system directs sound specifically to the wearer. Remarkably, it can reduce sound by 99% just a few inches from the ear, ensuring both discretion and privacy.
Weighing only 34 grams, including lenses, these glasses promise comfort for extended wear. They offer a battery life of 10 to 12 hours, making them ideal for daily use. Additionally, Legato Frames come in three styles to suit different aesthetic preferences and support prescription lenses as well as Bluetooth streaming for music and calls.
This unveiling comes after Legato recently emerged from stealth mode, backed by $12 million in funding from Neotribe Ventures, Listen, and Village Global. Founded in 2024 by Mehul Trivedi and Steve Romine, the company leverages their extensive backgrounds in wearables and hearing care. Trivedi previously led the creation of Bose Frames, while Romine managed Bose’s hearing aids division before becoming COO at Audicus.
You can purchase Legato Frames through the company’s website or select eye care providers in the U.S. Notably, they are eligible for coverage by vision insurance, which enhances their accessibility.
