Samsung and Medtronic collaborate on diabetes app

Samsung developing app that will allow diabetes patients to discretely view their Medtronic pump and glucose data on smartphones.

Medtronic has announced a partnership with Samsung, who will develop mobile apps, for android smartphones, and will work alongside Medtronic’s new FDA-cleared MiniMed Connect device.

MiniMed Connect, which can be placed in a person's pocket, wirelessly collects data from the insulin pump and continuous glucose monitoring device. A related app will allow the diabetes patient to view their blood glucose levels and other related information straight from their smartphone instead of having to check the data from the body worn pump and separate glucose monitoring receiver.

The MiniMed Connect system has pre-set alerts so, if a glucose level is too high or too low, or if an alarm isn't cleared by the patient, automated text messages are sent to the patient's family members and loved ones. This feature is likely to appeal to parents of young patients who have Type I diabetes, representing the typical user of an insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor. Comprehensive healthcare data is also available to physicians through the daily uploads of historical pump data allowing them to adjust care plans.

The developments underscore how traditional medtech players are looking to extend their therapy among consumers eager to take control of their health and demanding ease of use while doing so.

Annette Brüls, vice president and general manager, Diabetes Services and Solutions at Medtronic, said: "The Connect platform represents how we will use leadership technologies, data and informatics to enable better therapy decision making and care for people with diabetes. Our hope is that this will make it easier for more people to manage their disease and optimize their therapy so they can achieve greater freedom and better health."