NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK – EssilorLuxottica has announced the U.S. launch of Nuance Audio Glasses, an FDA-registered, over-the-counter (OTC) hearing solution designed for individuals with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. The new product integrates advanced audio technology with contemporary eyewear design, offering discreet, all-day hearing support without compromising on style or comfort.
Nuance Audio Glasses utilize an invisible open-ear design to address common barriers to hearing aid adoption, such as visibility and comfort. The device allows users to see and hear clearly with a single product that is both functional and visually appealing.
“Nuance Audio represents a breakthrough in hearing solutions, removing traditional barriers of stigma, cost and accessibility. By integrating this technology into stylish eyewear, we are offering a discreet, comfortable and high-quality solution that helps people stay engaged in their daily lives.”
–Stefano Genco, Head of Nuance Audio
Nuance Audio Glasses are currently available in the U.S. through LensCrafters, Target Optical, Pearle Vision, and other authorized optical and audiology practices and retailers. The product retails for approximately one-quarter of the average price of traditional prescription hearing aids.
EssilorLuxottica also plans to introduce Nuance Audio Glasses in select European markets—including Italy, France, Germany, and the UK—during the first half of 2025.
The hearing solutions market in the U.S. continues to face challenges similar to those previously observed in the vision care space, where factors such as stigma, cost, and accessibility have discouraged adoption. Nuance Audio Glasses aim to reduce these obstacles by offering a stylish, easy-to-use option for the approximately 73 million Americans estimated to experience mild to moderate hearing loss.
“At EssilorLuxottica, we are committed to leveraging innovation to enhance people’s lives,” added Genco. “Hearing loss can be an isolating challenge, and we believe technology should bring people closer, not set them apart. Nuance Audio Glasses seamlessly integrate hearing support into stylish eyewear, giving people the freedom to see and hear with confidence.”
Product Overview
Nuance Audio Glasses are designed for adults aged 18 and older. Unlike traditional hearing aids, the product features an all-in-one format that combines vision correction with discreet hearing enhancement.
The glasses use directional microphones and open-ear speakers to provide a natural listening experience. Beamforming technology enhances speech clarity while reducing background noise interference.
Key Features and Use Cases
- Invisible hearing aid: Combines vision and hearing support in a discreet design.
- Open-ear comfort: Lightweight speakers designed for extended wear.
- Directional amplification: Helps improve speech clarity in noisy environments.
- All-in-one design: A single solution addressing both vision and hearing.
- Ease of use: No audiologist visit required; setup is managed through a companion app.
Common use cases include:
- Restaurants & Crowded Places: Reduces background noise for clearer conversations.
- Workplaces: Enhances speech clarity in busy office environments.
- Family Gatherings: Improves engagement in group conversations.
Styles, Accessories, and Lens Options
Nuance Audio Glasses are available in two frame styles—Square (54/56) and Panthos (48)—and two colors: Shiny Black and Shiny Burgundy. Each purchase includes a folded case with a cleaning cloth, a charging pad with cable, and access to the Nuance Audio App. A separate remote control is available for purchase.
Users can customize the glasses with prescription optical lenses, including Transitions® lenses for adaptive light control.
Nuance Audio App
The Nuance Audio App is required for setup and personalization, including audio calibration and firmware updates. Features include:
- Noise reduction management: Adjustable in three settings.
- Audio modes: Choose between Frontal Mode and All-Around Mode.
- Preset options: Four amplification settings (A, B, C, D).
- Volume control: Scale from 1 to 5.
About EssilorLuxottica
EssilorLuxottica is a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of advanced vision care products, eyewear and med-tech solutions. Its Mission is to help people around the world to see more and be more by addressing their evolving vision needs, personal style aspirations and desire to feel more connected to the world around them. EssilorLuxottica is home to the most innovative lens technologies, including Varilux, Stellest and Transitions, iconic brands such as Ray-Ban, Oakley and Supreme, the most desired luxury licensed brands and world-class retailers including Sunglass Hut, LensCrafters, Vision Express and Apollo. Backed by robust R&D investments, distinctive capabilities and a top-quality asset portfolio, EssilorLuxottica drives innovation across categories, from cutting-edge medical instruments and solutions for eye health to category-defining smart glasses, all of which push the boundaries of the industry and reimagine the eyes as a gateway to new possibilities. With over 200,000 employees across 150 countries, 600 operations facilities and 18,000 stores, the group generated consolidated revenue of Euro 26.5 billion in 2024. Its OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation has given access to sustainable vision care to nearly 1 billion people in underserved communities. EssilorLuxottica trades on the Euronext Paris market and is included in the Euro Stoxx 50 and CAC 40 indices. Codes and symbols: ISIN: FR0000121667; Reuters: ESLX.PA; Bloomberg: EL:FP. www.essilorluxottica.com.
References:
1 For consumers with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss
2 Franks, I., & Timmer, B. H. B. (2023). Reasons for the non-use of hearing aids: perspectives of non-users, past users, and family members. International Journal of Audiology, 63(10), 794–801.
3 Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD; Haile et. al., 2024)
4 The Nuance Audio App is compatible with iOS devices running iOS 16 or later (release 0.3.7 onward) and Android devices running Android 12 or later with SDK 24 (release 0.4.1 onward).
5 The Nuance Audio App is necessary to manage noise reduction level and set the preferred preset option. The other two settings, i.e., switching between the two audio modes and adjusting the volume of amplification, can also be regulated using the Nuance Audio Glasses.
Source: Nuance Audio
