EssilorLuxottica launches second generation of Nuance Audio hearing glasses

French-Italian eyewear group EssilorLuxottica has introduced Nuance Audio Plus, the second generation of its hearing glasses for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. The product, which is classed as a medical device, launched globally on September 14.

Like the first Nuance Audio glasses, the new model integrates hearing support into an ordinary-looking frame, with open-ear speakers built into the temples rather than a device worn in the ear. The original collection will remain on sale alongside the new one, with the two lines covering different technology features and price points.

EssilorLuxottica says the update brings stronger amplification, better speech clarity in noisy settings and improved perception of the wearer's own voice. Directional microphones are designed to focus on conversations in front of the user, while battery life has been extended to around ten hours, according to the company.

Users can adjust the glasses through an app, which offers two audio modes, four amplification presets, three levels of noise reduction and a five-step volume scale. The frames also carry on-frame controls and can take hands-free phone calls when paired with a compatible iPhone.

Wider range of frames

The collection has been expanded to three frame styles, 'Square 53', 'Panthos 48' and 'Upturn 52', in five colours: shiny black; shiny burgundy; deep blue; amber; and deep green. A wider range of sizes and adjustable nose pads on selected styles are intended to improve fit, and the frames can be fitted with any type of prescription lens, including Transitions lenses.

Stefano Genco, global head of Nuance Audio, said the response to the first generation had been "extremely positive". According to Genco, Nuance Audio has expanded to 14 countries and more than 18,000 stores within a year.

He added that its customers are on average five years younger than traditional hearing-aid users, and that two out of three had never explored traditional hearing aids. "With Nuance Audio Plus, our new product generation, we are taking another important step toward making hearing support a natural part of everyday life," Genco said.