Highlights
- Real-time blood sugar monitoring on Apple Watch without an iPhone.
- Dexcom G7 CGM directly connects to Apple Watch via Bluetooth.
- Supports Apple Watch Series 6 and newer models.
- Integration rolling out in the US, UK, and Ireland.
The most expected feature for the Apple Watch is blood sugar monitoring in real time.
Rumors are going out that Apple, along with other tech companies, is working hard in making this feature possible.
Monitoring Blood Sugar on Wearables
Real-time blood sugar monitoring for a diabetic would be totally revolutionary in diabetes management.
It would mean no more pricking of fingers: with a glance at the wrist, users would instantly know if they have to consume food to prevent a dangerous sugar crash or take some insulin to maintain levels.
It could improve quality of life and treatment for those with diabetes.
Even for people without diabetes, that real-time glucose data could be incredibly valuable for general health maintenance.
After an intense workout, they would know whether to grab a snack to replenish glucose levels.
And it just might stave off overindulging in that next sugary treat.
While we do not know if, let alone when, Apple will ever truly introduce glucose monitoring to the Apple Watch, there is a nifty workaround available now with the Dexcom G7 continuous glucose monitor.
This little sensor sticks to your skin and wirelessly sends real-time readings of your sugar to smart devices every 5 minutes, for up to 10 days.
No Need for an iPhone Now
It has worked with the iPhone for quite some time, but the new breakthrough is that the G7 can now directly link to the Apple Watch via Bluetooth without requiring an iPhone to be nearby.
Data is synced to the Health app and Dexcom’s receiver, and the Watch will display the readings on your wrist, complete with custom alerts to check levels and avoid hyper- or hypoglycemia.
It is going to be life-changing for a lot of people with insulin-dependent type 1 diabetes where dosing has to be precise.
Apple Watch integration is being rolled out first to G7 users in the US, UK, and Ireland.
Users will need a relatively recent Apple Watch (Series 6 or newer) and to update both watchOS and the Dexcom app.
But this offers an ingenious stopgap until the technology for embedded glucose monitoring arrives.
Other Players in the Market
Other wearable makers have tried similar technology.
Oppo is one, and there is even news of stem cell treatments that might be a source of curing type 2 diabetes.
But until that native glucose monitoring comes to the Apple Watch, devices like the Dexcom G7 are the next best solution to check sugar levels on the go.
FAQs
How does the Dexcom G7 CGM work with the Apple Watch?
The Dexcom G7 CGM directly connects to the Apple Watch over Bluetooth, allowing real-time blood sugar readings to be displayed on the watch without needing an iPhone nearby.
Which Apple Watch models are compatible with the Dexcom G7 CGM?
The Dexcom G7 CGM requires an Apple Watch Series 6 or newer to connect directly via Bluetooth and display blood sugar levels.
What are the benefits of real-time blood sugar monitoring on the Apple Watch?
Real-time blood sugar monitoring helps users manage their diabetes more effectively by providing immediate data to adjust food intake or insulin, potentially preventing dangerous sugar highs and lows.
Where is the Apple Watch and Dexcom G7 integration currently available?
The integration is currently available to Dexcom G7 users in the US, UK, and Ireland, with more regions expected to follow.
Do users still need to update their devices for this new feature?
Yes, users will need to update both their watchOS and the Dexcom app to ensure compatibility and functionality of the direct connection feature.
Also Read: Apple Watch Series 9: Five Features To Admire & Two Reasons for Second Thoughts
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