A Glucose Guardian: Not Yet
Despite the high hopes, the much-anticipated blood sugar monitoring feature didn't find its way to the Apple Watch Series 9. This absence is keenly felt among the diabetic community who were looking forward to an easier and non-invasive method of tracking their glucose levels. This feature, if realized, would be a game-changer in continuous glucose monitoring, offering real-time insights into the wearer's blood sugar levels.
The Challenges: A Bitter Pill
The path to integrating a non-invasive blood glucose monitor in a smartwatch is laden with both technical and regulatory challenges. The most significant hurdle is crafting a non-invasive technology capable of delivering accurate and reliable glucose readings without the need for blood draws.
Regulatory approval is another mountain to climb. Blood glucose monitoring is a medical function that demands rigorous testing and approval from health regulatory bodies. Any inaccuracies in blood glucose readings can have serious health implications, necessitating a stringent approval process to ensure the safety and accuracy of such devices.
The Prospects: A Spoonful of Hope
In the research realm, the flames of innovation burn bright. Various technologies such as optics, microwave, electrochemistry, and even wearable technology are being explored for non-invasive blood glucose monitoring. For instance, a unique approach known as GlucoTrack™ employs a combination of ultrasonic, electromagnetic, and thermal technologies for real-time, non-invasive blood glucose spot measurement.
Apple, with its knack for pioneering innovation, might be brewing something revolutionary behind the scenes. The company has shown interest in this domain, with ongoing projects aiming to bring non-invasive blood sugar monitoring to the Apple Watch.
The Sweet Future: A Realm of Possibilities
The integration of blood sugar monitoring in the Apple Watch Series 9 might have been a miss, but it's not a full stop. The relentless march of technology, coupled with Apple's penchant for pushing the boundaries, keeps the hope alive. The day might not be far when a gentle tap on the Apple Watch reveals not just the time, but also the sugar running through our veins.
As we await the sweet future where our Apple Watch buzzes with not just messages but also blood sugar readings, the anticipation only sweetens the potential of what's yet to come.
Third-party continuous glucose monitors (CGMs)
Utilizing third-party devices, individuals can monitor their blood glucose levels using their Apple Watch. Here are some notable solutions:
Dexcom Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Systems:
- The Dexcom G7 and G6 CGM systems allow users to monitor their glucose levels continuously. By pairing the Dexcom app with an Apple Watch, users can view their glucose readings, trend arrow, and trend graph directly on their wrist. The Dexcom G6 app further enables users to use the Apple Watch's digital crown to scroll through the trend graph, viewing 1, 3, or 6 hours of data
FreeStyle Libre:
- Similar to the Dexcom systems, the FreeStyle Libre system can be paired with an Apple Watch using third-party accessories and apps. One such setup involves using the Ambrosia rt-CGM+ system, which, alongside the LinkBluCon app and a device called NightRider, allows users to view glucose readings from FreeStyle Libre sensors on their Apple Watch
Quick links:
Apple Watch 9 Battery Performance
Guide to iPhone Settings for Battery Saving. 30 Tips & Tricks
