CC - Dexcom updates G5 app to add Apple Watch compatibility, Today widget for lock screen –
Yesterday, Dexcom finally (!) released an updated version of the G5 app that includes Apple Watch compatibility and a Today widget to view CGM data on the iPhone lock screen (see the images on the G5 App store page). These were the first two areas that we hoped for change in our G5 test drive last fall and we are elated that Dexcom has addressed both (though the lag time illustrates how long it takes to update apps!). Both updates are well designed to achieve the key goal: show critical CGM information (value, trend arrow, three-hour graph) easily – i.e., without having to pause and unlock the phone. The updated G5 app already has 28 reviews and 4.5 stars, up from 3.5 stars for the previous versions. We wonder if these updates will motivate more patients to use the G5 phone app instead of the receiver, which brings several advantages for patients, providers, and Dexcom: (i) automatic upload to Dexcom Clarity analysis software (cable free!); (ii) data posted to HealthKit, which can be sent to other diabetes apps and directly into EHRs (see our DTM coverage for what EPIC looks like); (iii) a more customizable user experience on the phone, plus a faster cycle of iteration; and (iv) more data flowing to Dexcom so it can improve the product and understand how users behave. See our Dexcom 4Q15 report for more on the planned 2016 product launches on the software and hardware sides: a new touchscreen receiver, one-button insertion system, and smaller transmitter by the end of 2016; potential launch of an enhanced G5 mobile app, which will include display of insulin-on-board data from pump partners; and an Android version of G5.