Hearing Tech Startup Legato Launches AI-Powered Hearing Glasses

Hearing tech startup Legato announced on Thursday that its flagship AI-based hearing glasses, Legato Frames, are now available for purchase. Starting at $999, the glasses integrate patented hearing-assistance technology into the eyewear frames and are designed for adults with up to moderate levels of hearing loss. The startup aims to make hearing care more accessible by addressing the cost, comfort, and stigma often associated with traditional hearing aids. Unlike traditional devices that use directional microphones and can struggle in loud environments, Legato’s AI-powered system distinguishes voices from background noise, amplifying speech while reducing unwanted sounds. Despite an open-ear design, the frames feature a dual-speaker system that directs sound toward the wearer and cancels escaping sound by 99% just inches away from the ear. All data processing occurs directly on the device, with no cameras or recording involved. The glasses weigh 34 grams, offer 10-12 hours of battery life, and are available in three styles that support prescription lenses and Bluetooth streaming. The launch follows Legato’s emergence from stealth with $12 million in funding from investors including Neotribe Ventures and Village Global. The company was founded in 2024 by Mehul Trivedi and Steve Romine, both veterans of Bose’s wearables and hearing divisions. Trivedi also previously led smart eyewear efforts at EssilorLuxottica, working on the Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses.