CGM Data Goes Hands-Free (But You Still Need a Wrist!) Dexcom’s G7 CGM Now Connects Directly to Apple Watch

Many of us rely on our phones like a fifth appendage, but now we can opt to leave our phones at home and still get CGM data via the Apple Watch.

On June 5^th, Dexcom announced that their G7 CGM can now connect directly to the Apple Watch, offering people the freedom of real-time glucose readings on their wrist even when their phone isn’t with them. This feature is going to be really nice for people who play sports, people who want to bask in nature untethered, and parents whose T1D kids rely on CGM data but may not have their own smartphones.

“At Dexcom, our users are at the heart of everything we do. Direct to Apple Watch has been one of our most requested features and we’re thrilled to roll it out to Dexcom G7 users in the U.S. and around the world,” said Jake Leach, executive vice president and chief operating officer at Dexcom. “We’ve long believed that people with diabetes should be able to view their CGM data where and how they choose. Direct to Apple Watch is a testament to that, allowing people with diabetes flexibility and choice in how they manage their health.”

How the Dexcom G7’s Direct to Apple Watch Feature Works

Using its own dedicated Bluetooth connection, Dexcom G7 sends glucose information and personalized alerts directly to a user’s Apple Watch, allowing them to go for a run or enjoy a night out and feel confident leaving their phone behind. The G7 can display blood sugar data on multiple devices simultaneously and independently, including on a smartphone, smartwatch, receiver, or connected automated insulin delivery system.

 In addition to using Direct to Apple Watch for blood sugar readings, people can track other key health metrics that can impact glucose levels using Apple’s Activity, Cycle Tracking, Sleep, and other health features in the Health app.

For full Direct to Watch set-up and connection instructions, visit: https://www.dexcom.com/faqs/how-do-i-connect-my-g7-sensor-directly-with-my-apple-watch.

For a full list of Direct to Watch FAQs, visit: https://www.dexcom.com/faqs/setting-up-your-system/direct-to-watch.

Dexcom G7, iPhone, and Apple Watch Requirements and Compatibility

A compatible iPhone and Apple Watch are required for the Direct to Apple Watch feature to work. You need to have the latest G7 app update installed (version 2.1), an Apple Watch Series 6 or later running watch OS 10 or later, and an iPhone running iOS 17 or later.

For a full list of compatible watches, visit: https://www.dexcom.com/en-IE/faqs/what-apple-watches-are-compatible.

It’s important to note that if you want to use the G7 share/follow feature which sends your CGM data to a select group of followers, your phone must still be within 20 feet of the G7 sensor.

Is the Direct to Apple Watch Feature Available in Other Countries?

Direct to Apple Watch is currently available to G7 users in the United States, the United Kingdom and Ireland, with additional markets launching soon. Dexcom is hoping that the direct to watch feature will soon be available with Android and Samsung devices as well.

So there it is…this long-awaited feature is finally here. Some of us may need therapy to leave our phones at home on purpose, but knowing we’ll have access to our CGM data if we accidentally leave a phone behind offers much-needed peace of mind.

Additional Resources:

Dexcom G7 CGM: Next Gen Gets FDA Clearance!