Smartwatches have become increasingly popular in recent years because of their many functions that go beyond simply monitoringphysical activity and heart rate. One of the most ambitious goals for smartwatch developers is the measurement of blood glucose levels, a feature that could improve the lives of millions of people with diabetes or who need to constantly monitor their blood sugar levels.
However, despite technological advances and promises made by wearable device manufacturers, measuring blood glucose levels via smartwatch is still a difficult goal to achieve. There are several technical and regulatory challenges to overcome before this function can be implemented safely and effectively.
The challenge of measuring blood glucose levels
Measuring blood glucose levels is a complex process that requires extreme accuracy. Currently, most medical devices that can measure blood glucose levels rely on an invasive method that requires a small incision to take a blood sample and analyze it. This method is inconvenient and painful for many patients, and it is not suitable for continuous monitoring.
The main challenge for smartwatch developers is to find a noninvasive method to measure blood glucose levels. This requires the ability to detect and analyze small changes in blood glucose without the need for invasive blood draws.
Samsung’s efforts for noninvasive measurement of blood glucose levels
Samsung is a leading smartwatch manufacturer and has long been engaged in research and development of technologies for monitoring blood glucose levels. In 2020, the company announced that it had developed a noninvasive method for measuring glucose levels in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
This method is based on the use of advanced optical sensors that can detect changes in blood glucose through the skin. Samsung’s goal is to integrate this technology into its smartwatches to enable users to monitor their glucose levels continuously and noninvasively.
However, despite promising announcements, Samsung’s noninvasive blood glucose level measurement technology has not yet been implemented on its smartwatches. It is unclear when this feature will be available to the public, but there are rumors suggesting that Samsung is still working to perfect it and overcome technical and regulatory challenges.
Rumors about the 10th-generation Apple Watch and the measurement of blood glucose levels
Apple is also interested in developing a non-invasive measurement function of blood glucose levels for its smartwatches. According to rumors, this feature could be one of the main new features of the 10th-generationApple Watch, scheduled to be launched later this year.
Apple is known for its innovations in health and vital signs monitoring. Currently, the Apple Watch is capable of monitoring heart rate, physical activity and sleep, but measuring blood glucose levels would be a major step forward in the device’s monitoring capabilities.
However, it is important to note that these rumors have not yet been officially confirmed by Apple. It is unclear whether the company has been able to develop reliable technology for measuring blood glucose levels and whether this feature will actually be implemented on the 10th generation Apple Watch.
FDA’s concerns about misleading marketing tactics
Despite the efforts of Samsung, Apple and other smartwatch manufacturers in the area of measuring blood glucose levels, the U.S. FDA is already concerned about possible misleading marketing tactics related to this feature.
The FDA has clarified that it has not certified any smartwatch or smart ring that can independently measure blood glucose levels. The agency has urged users not to purchase or use devices that claim to measure blood glucose levels without official certification.
This concern is motivated by the fact that measuring blood glucose levels is a complex process that requires extreme accuracy. It is important that the devices used for this measurement are accurate and reliable to avoid negative health consequences for users.
The FDA has warned purchasers against buying smartwatches or rings that claim to measure blood glucose levels and advised to always check official certification before making a purchase.
Advice for buyers: check FDA certification
Given FDA ‘s concerns about misleading marketing tactics related to measuring blood glucose levels via smartwatch, it is important for buyers to be cautious before making a purchase.
The FDA has made it clear that it has not certified any device that can independently measure blood glucose levels. Therefore, it is critical to always check the FDA’s official certification before purchasing a smartwatch or ring that claims to offer this function.
Before making a purchase, buyers should seek information about the manufacturer and the device’s technical features. In addition, it is advisable to read reviews and experiences of other users to assess the reliability and accuracy of the device in measuring blood glucose levels.
In general, it is important to be cautious and not be fooled by marketing promises. Before making a purchase, it is always advisable to consult a medical professional or wearable device expert for up-to-date and reliable information on measuring blood glucose levels via smartwatch.