The Future of Diabetes Technology: Industry Updates

Aug 15, 2024

The landscape of diabetes technology is evolving rapidly, with significant advancements in continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and automated insulin delivery (AID) systems.

As technology progresses, companies are forming strategic partnerships and introducing new products that promise to revolutionize how people with diabetes manage their condition.

In this article, we explore some of the most exciting recent developments from industry giants like Medtronic, Tandem, Insulet, and others.

Medtronic Partners with Abbott for Next-Gen CGM Integration
Tandem Announces FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus Integration for 2025
Omnipod 5 Set to Expand Globally
DIY Loop Now Supports FreeStyle Libre Sensors
FDA Approval for Abbott’s Lingo and Libre Rio Sensor
Dexcom G7 Enhances Usability with New App Features
Accu-Chek SmartGuide CGM Receives CE Approval

#1 Medtronic Partners with Abbott for Next-Gen CGM Integration

In a groundbreaking move, Medtronic announced on August 7th that they will collaborate with Abbott to integrate Abbott's most advanced CGM platform into their MiniMed 780G automated insulin delivery system and Smart MDI system (InPen).

This partnership marks a significant step forward for Medtronic users, as Abbott's CGM devices are known for being smaller, more accurate, and longer-lasting.

While no specific timeline for commercialization has been provided, this development is highly anticipated by those who rely on Medtronic's systems for diabetes management.

Disclaimer: The CGM hasn’t been commercialized yet, and the specifics haven't officially been disclosed. The provided chart is based on our personal assumptions.

#2 Tandem Announces FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus Integration for 2025

During the Tandem Investor Update on August 1st, it was revealed that the integration of FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus with Tandem's systems is slated for 2025.

This rollout will begin with the t:slim X2 pump in both the US and international markets,
followed by the Tandem Mobi pump.

Notably, there was no mention of the previously discussed Tandem t:slim X3 pump,

but the update did confirm that Tandem is continuing to develop other future innovations,

including the Mobi Tubeless,
Sigi pump,
and 7-day Steadiset infusion set,

though specific timelines for these products were not provided. (see investor presentation here)

#3 Omnipod 5 Set to Expand Globally

Omnipod 5, currently available in the US, Germany, UK, the Netherlands, and France, is set to expand its reach to additional markets in 2025, including

Australia,
Belgium,
Canada,
Italy,
Switzerland,
and the Nordics.

This announcement was made during Insulet's Investor Update on August 8th, where Dr. Hollingshead detailed the company's plans for a global rollout. (see investor presentation here)

The Omnipod 5 system is currently compatible with the Dexcom G6 sensor, but alternative sensor options are available in select regions.

For instance, integration with the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus is already offered in the Netherlands and the UK, with plans for a global rollout by the end of 2024.
In the US, the system also supports Dexcom G7, though it requires specific "Dexcom G7-compatible pods." However, the timeline for Dexcom G7 integration in Europe remains unclear.
Additionally, there are ongoing efforts to integrate the FreeStyle Libre 3 sensor into the Omnipod 5 system.

#4 DIY Loop Now Supports FreeStyle Libre Sensors

For those who prefer open-source solutions, the DIY Loop or Open-source Loop system has received a significant update.

As of July 13th, version 3.4 of DIY Loop now supports FreeStyle Libre sensors, broadening the options available for users looking for customizable and flexible diabetes management tools.

#5 FDA Approval for Abbott’s Lingo and Libre Rio Sensor

The FDA has granted approval for two of Abbott's innovative CGM systems:

Lingo, a wellness CGM aimed at individuals without diabetes,
and the Libre Rio, designed for individuals with type 2 diabetes who are not on insulin.

These products have the potential to significantly broaden access to CGM technology through over-the-counter availability (in the US).

Abbott plans to launch Lingo in the US this summer through their online store (hellolingo.com), with the launch of Libre Rio to follow later.

Pricing details are still unclear, but Lingo is already available in the UK for 100-120 euros per month.

Lingo features an adaptive system that learns a user’s metabolic patterns during the first week of use, analyzing how they respond to glucose fluctuations.

This data is then used to establish a “Lingo Count,” a personalized benchmark that tracks the number of glucose spikes within a user-defined range each day.
Lingo encourages users to improve their score, aiming to reach the top quartile for their age group.
Users can adjust their target score within the Lingo app, with options ranging from 25 (most challenging) to 105 (least challenging), allowing for a customized and guided approach to wellness.

#6 Dexcom G7 Enhances Usability with New App Features

Dexcom continues to innovate with its G7 app, introducing new features like medication logging and an activity integration tool, announced on July 25th.

These updates are designed to provide a more comprehensive view of a user's health, making it easier to track and manage their diabetes.

We also learned that Dexcom will launch the Stelo at the end of August, available through www.stelo.com with delivery facilitated by Amazon.

Dexcom will provide options for both one-time purchases and discounted subscription plans, with monthly costs set at under $100. (see investor presentation here)

#7 Accu-Chek SmartGuide CGM Receives CE Approval

Roche has also made headlines with the CE-label approval of their Accu-Chek SmartGuide CGM, designed for individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes on flexible insulin therapy.

Set to launch in Europe in the coming months, this new CGM is poised to provide more options for users seeking reliable and advanced diabetes management solutions.

Conclusion: A New Era in Diabetes Management

The recent announcements from Medtronic, Tandem, Insulet, and other industry leaders signal a new era in diabetes management. As these companies continue to innovate and collaborate, patients can look forward to more accurate, user-friendly, and versatile options for managing their condition.

The future of diabetes care is bright, with technology playing an increasingly critical role in improving the quality of life for millions of people.

Don't miss out on these exciting developments!