EssilorLuxottica is introducing its next-generation of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing assistance: Nuance Audio 2.0 Plus.
This second iteration follows the advanced glasses’ first iteration receiving FDA clearance in 2025.
Big news! But first: let’s hear about the original Nuance Audio.
Before that rundown, click here for some background on why Essilor entered the hearing aid market.
Now for the basics: Nuance Audio is a smart eyewear system consisting of hearing assistance (embedded in the frame) paired with a companion smartphone app.
- Intended users are adults 18+ with mild-to-moderate hearing loss in both ears or who struggle to follow speech in noisy settings.
- No fitting, pre-programming, or hearing test is required.
The tech is built into each frame: Nuance Hearing technology includes microphones that capture and amplify sound from the direction the wearer is facing, and is delivered through open-ear directional speakers that keep audio private to the wearer.
The company describes the hardware as "completely invisible" once embedded.
Talk software.
The eyewear system runs on Nuance Audio Hearing Aid Software, which Essilor says is the first FDA-cleared, preset Software as a Medical Device (SaMD) in the US.
As for volume controls:
- A companion app to the frames enables setting adjustments based on an environment, including 360º amplification.
- A pocket-sized remote toggles amplification on/off and switches audio modes—but it's sold separately as an accessory.
So what lens types fit in these frames?
That would be plano Transitions Gen S lenses—gray tint on shiny black, emerald tint on shiny burgundy—which block 100% of UVA and UVB and fade back to clear in under 2o minutes.
- Prescription lenses are also available as an optional upgrade.
And how are they powered?
Via a magnetic LED wireless charging pad and case (included). Full charge takes roughly 3 hours and provides (at a minimum) 8 hours of continuous use under average conditions.
User tip: Essilor recommends powering the frames down when amplification isn't needed to extend runtime.
Next up: this upgraded 2.0 version.
Per the company, the newest iteration of Nuance Audio builds on the original frames by offering:
- Improved audio performance
- Extended battery life (around 10 hours under average conditions)
- Expanded assortment of frame styles
Plus, as a reported “category-first,” users can now answer and manage calls directly from the glasses when paired with a compatible (iOS 16 or later) iPhone.
Let’s get a closer look at these updates.
While Nuance Audio Plus includes the smart glasses’ pre-existing open-ear technology, its “invisible hearing aid” is equipped with enhanced amplification and “own-voice perception.”
A note on that “open-ear” component: Designed for comfort, these lightweight speakers are integrated into the temples and are available in an expanded range of sizes (not to mention universal fitting and adjustable nose pads).
Circle back to that enhanced amplification.
Directional microphones and beamforming technology are designed to enhance speech clarity in noisy environments to help users focus on the conversations in front of them.
And users still use the companion app for controls, right?
Correct. Through the app, they can adjust:
- Two optional audio modes
- Frontal (for face-to-face conversations)
- All-around (to amplify all surrounding sounds)
- Presets: enabling hearing customization by choosing between four pre-configured amplification settings
- Customizable background noise with three levels of noise reduction
- Adjustable volume level via five amplification scales
How about lenses—any changes there?
Nope. Essilor noted that the Plus frames can be fitted with “any type of optical lenses”—including Transitions lenses—to accommodate personalized user needs.
What else is new?
The Plus frames are available in three frame styles—similar to the original—and five colors: shiny black, shiny burgundy, deep blue, amber, and olive green.
And lastly: Is Nuance Audio Plus available yet?
Per the company—yes! The frames are reportedly now available in the United States (as well as online in select countries) via “authorized optical and hearing-care professionals” as well as at Lens Crafters. Demo requests here.
And click here to view a store locator.
The recommended retail price will start at $829, depending on lens configuration.