Garmin, a leading wearable technology company, has recently announced the “expanded region availability” of the Dexcom Connect IQ app. This app enables people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes to monitor their blood sugar levels in real-time using a Dexcom continuous glucose monitoring system on their Garmin smartwatch or bike computer.
The Dexcom Connect IQ app provides an array of metrics, including blood sugar measurements, broader trends, and a three-hour history, making it a helpful tool for people living with diabetes. By syncing their Dexcom CGM device with the Garmin wearable device, users can monitor their glucose levels and other training insights, without having to retrieve their smartphone.
The app has already been available in the US, and it is now rolling out in various regions, including the UK, Canada, France, and Germany. Users can download the Dexcom Connect IQ app from the Connect IQ store on their compatible Garmin smartwatch or bike computer, including Fenix 7, Epix, and Forerunner 945.
However, there are several caveats to using this app. Firstly, users must purchase a Dexcom CGM system device separately, and only the Dexcom G6 and Dexcom G7 models are compatible with the app. Secondly, both the Garmin wearable device and Dexcom gadget must be within Bluetooth range of the user's smartphone with a data connection.
Despite these limitations, the Dexcom Connect IQ app offers a convenient and accessible way for people living with diabetes to track their blood sugar levels and training metrics. This app is especially beneficial for those who enjoy exercising as it provides them with real-time data about their glucose levels.
Moreover, Garmin has been actively developing features to make its wearable devices more health-focused. Garmin already offers a range of health monitoring features such as heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and menstrual cycle tracking, and the addition of the Dexcom Connect IQ app will undoubtedly bolster its health and fitness offering.
In addition to the Dexcom Connect IQ app, Garmin also recently introduced its new Fenix 7 smartwatch, which features an array of health-focused features, including body battery energy monitoring, hydration tracking, and respiration tracking.
The market for wearable technology has been growing significantly over the past few years, and the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated this trend. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global wearable technology market size is expected to reach USD 104.4 billion by 2027.
In conclusion, the Dexcom Connect IQ app is an innovative solution for people living with diabetes who wish to track their blood sugar levels conveniently. The app's integration with Garmin wearable devices enables users to monitor their glucose levels in real-time alongside other training insights, making it an excellent tool for those who enjoy exercising. While the app does come with some limitations, its release highlights Garmin's continued investment in health-focused features for its wearable technology devices.
