EssilorLuxottica has announced the launch of Nuance Audio Plus, a next-generation version of its FDA-cleared, open-ear hearing glasses built for adults experiencing mild to moderate hearing loss. The updated device introduces enhanced amplification, extended battery life, and hands-free phone call management directly from the frames—marking a category first for smart eyewear.
Global hearing loss affects an estimated 1.6 billion people, with roughly 1.25 billion facing mild to moderate impairment, yet nearly 90% of that population currently uses no hearing solution. Nuance Audio Plus addresses this adoption gap by embedding audio support into conventional eyewear frames that are virtually indistinguishable from standard glasses. According to Stefano Genco, global head of Nuance Audio, the product builds on strong consumer reception since the original line’s debut.
The original Nuance Audio collection expanded to 14 countries and more than 18,000 stores within a single year, reaching consumers who are, on average, five years younger than traditional hearing-aid buyers. Two out of three purchasers had never previously explored conventional hearing aids. The original collection will remain available alongside the new line to offer buyers a wider range of price points and design choices.
Performance and Feature Upgrades in Nuance Audio Plus
Nuance Audio Plus delivers several technical improvements over its predecessor, including a battery life extended to approximately 10 hours under average conditions. The glasses use directional microphones and beamforming technology to sharpen speech clarity, helping users focus on conversations happening directly in front of them. For the first time in this product category, wearers can answer and manage voice calls directly from the frames when paired with a compatible iPhone.
Physical controls have also been updated to include a dedicated power switch and volume buttons positioned on the temples. Lightweight, open-ear speakers leave the ears unblocked, while an expanded range of sizing options, universal fittings, and adjustable nose pads on select styles provide a secure fit. The frames can accommodate any optical lens type, including Transitions lenses that adapt dynamically to changing light conditions.
Styles, Pricing, and App Controls
The device is available in three frame styles—Square 53, Panthos 48, and Upturn 52—across five colors: Shiny Black, Shiny Burgundy, Deep Blue, Amber, and Olive Green. In the United States, recommended retail pricing starts at $829, varying based on the selected lens configuration.
Users manage the acoustic profile through the Nuance Audio App, which allows switching between Frontal mode for face-to-face dialogue and All-Around mode to amplify wider ambient sound. The software features four pre-configured amplification presets, three customizable levels of background noise reduction, and a volume scale ranging from 1 to 5. A separate physical remote control is also available for users who prefer off-app operation.