Legato Unveils AI-Powered Hearing Glasses, Targeting Cost and Stigma Barriers

Product Design and Technology

Legato, a hearing‑technology startup, has begun shipping its flagship AI hearing glasses, branded Legato Frames. Priced from $999, the product is aimed at adults experiencing mild to moderate hearing loss. Unlike conventional hearing aids that rely on directional microphones and can falter in noisy settings, Legato’s system uses artificial intelligence to separate voices from background noise, amplifying speech while suppressing unwanted sounds.

The frames feature an open‑ear architecture and a dual‑speaker array that channels audio directly to the wearer. Sound leakage is minimized by a cancellation mechanism that reduces audible output by roughly 99% within a few inches of the ear, ensuring privacy for nearby listeners.

All signal processing occurs locally on the device; the company confirms that no cameras or recording capabilities are included. The glasses weigh 34 grams, include prescription‑compatible lenses, and offer 10 to 12 hours of battery life. Three style options are available, and Bluetooth connectivity supports music and call streaming.

Funding, Founders, and Market Access

The commercial rollout follows Legato’s emergence from stealth mode several weeks ago, backed by a $12 million investment round led by Neotribe Ventures, with participation from Listen and Village Global.

Legato was founded in 2024 by Mehul Trivedi and Steve Romine. Trivedi previously led the creation of Bose Frames at Bose and later headed smart‑eyewear initiatives at EssilorLuxottica, including work on Meta’s Ray‑Ban smart glasses. Romine managed Bose’s hearing‑aid division and subsequently served as COO of Audicus, a hearing‑care company. Their combined expertise in wearables and hearing technology guided the development of the new product.

Consumers can purchase Legato Frames directly through the company’s website or via select eye‑care providers across the United States. The glasses qualify for coverage under vision‑insurance plans, aligning with Legato’s mission to make hearing care more affordable, comfortable, and socially acceptable.