Hearing tech startup Legato launches AI-powered hearing glasses
Hearing technology startup Legato has launched its AI-based hearing glasses, Legato Frames, aimed at adults with mild to moderate hearing loss, priced from $999.
Hearing tech startup Legato announced on Thursday that its flagship product, AI-based hearing glasses called Legato Frames, are now available for purchase. The technology is built into the arms of eyewear frames, with prices starting at $999. The glasses are designed for adults with up to moderate levels of hearing loss.
The company's goal is to make hearing care more accessible by addressing the cost, comfort, and stigma associated with traditional hearing aids. Unlike conventional hearing aids, which use directional microphones and often struggle in noisy environments, Legato takes a different approach: its AI system distinguishes voices from background noise, amplifying speech while reducing unwanted sounds.
Open-ear design with contained sound
Although the frames have an open-ear design, sound is not broadcast to people nearby. They feature a dual-speaker system that directs sound toward the wearer while canceling sound that escapes, reducing it by 99% just a few inches from the ear. All processing happens directly on the glasses, with no cameras or recording, according to the company.
The glasses weigh 34 grams with lenses and offer 10-12 hours of battery life. They are available in three styles, support prescription lenses, and offer Bluetooth streaming for music and calls.
The official launch comes a few weeks after the startup emerged from stealth with $12 million in funding from Neotribe Ventures, Listen, and Village Global. Legato was founded in 2024 by Mehul Trivedi and Steve Romine, who bring experience in wearables and hearing care from Bose. After Bose, Trivedi joined EssilorLuxottica, working on smart eyewear including the Meta Ray-Ban glasses, while Romine served as COO of hearing care company Audicus.
Legato Frames can be purchased through the startup's website or select eye care providers in the U.S., where they are eligible for coverage by vision insurance.
