With the launch of Alphabet, Google has now proven its seriousness in participating in the life sciences. One of its major projects is a more novel and advanced glucose monitoring system.
Google has just announced that it's setting up a partnership with Dexcom, a major and popular manufacturer of glucose monitors with sensor technology, to create a device that is very small it's comparable to that of a bandage.
The main objective is to have a glucose monitor that can be worn anytime of the day and keep track of dips and lows of blood sugar without the need of finger pricking. Although there are already newer monitoring technologies, diabetic patients are still required to provide a small blood sample on a glucose strip. With the process now simplified, the device will also be low cost and easy to maintain.
The partnership is strategic as each has something good to bring at the table. Dexcom has developed an FDA-approved technology called continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), which uses sensors to track glucose fluctuations underneath the skin all throughout the day. It is currently marketed as a complement to traditional monitors since it can provide more in-depth information.
On the other hand, Google will provide the cloud-based system for the sensors. This means all readings by the device will be immediately uploaded into the cloud, which can then be accessed anytime and anywhere, as well as by concerned partners like physicians and patients.
So far, neither can provide a time frame for its release in the market, although they are confident it's going to be successful.
With more than 25 million people in the United States with diabetes, the market is certainly competitive companies are developing more user-friendly technologies. A few weeks ago, the University of Leeds has announced it's working on laser for glucose monitoring. Rather than finger pricking, the laser can detect blood glucose through levels of fluorescence.
