New Diabetes Technologies Take Center Stage at ADA Scientific Sessions

The American Diabetes Association's (ADA) Scientific Sessions, held from June 20 to June 23 in Chicago, showcased a range of innovative diabetes management technologies. Major players in the industry unveiled plans for advanced glucose sensors, insulin patch pumps, and multi-analyte monitoring systems, signaling a new era in diabetes care.

Next-Generation Glucose Sensors and Multi-Analyte Monitoring

Abbott and Dexcom, two leading continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) manufacturers, presented their visions for multi-analyte sensors. Abbott announced plans to launch a dual-analyte sensor capable of detecting both glucose and ketone levels next year. This development aims to help people with diabetes avoid diabetic ketoacidosis by enabling early detection of rising ketone levels.

Abbott has secured partnerships with several insulin pump manufacturers, including Tandem, Sequel Med Tech, and Beta Bionics, to integrate its new sensor with their devices. The company expects the sensor to be compatible with all major automated insulin delivery systems and hopes to gain market share in the U.S. with this innovative product.

Dexcom, not to be outdone, revealed that its next-generation CGM, the G8, is currently in human feasibility trials. The G8 is designed to last for 15 days, feature a smaller form factor than the current G7, and support multi-analyte capabilities. While Dexcom has not specified which additional analytes it will monitor, the device is anticipated to reach the market by 2027 or 2028.

Senseonics, known for its implantable glucose sensors, discussed future iterations of its technology. The company is developing "Gemini," a fully implantable and self-powered sensor, with plans to begin a study later this year and launch commercially in Q4 2026. Looking further ahead, Senseonics is working on "Freedom," a sensor that requires no external transmitter, currently in prototype testing.

Advancements in Insulin Patch Pumps

Several companies showcased their developments in insulin patch pump technology, aiming to provide more convenient and discreet insulin delivery options for people with diabetes.

Medtronic, which is planning to spin off its diabetes business, presented two pumps in development. The company demonstrated its next tubed pump, the MiniMed 8-series, which is about half the size of its current 780G pump and is controlled by a smartphone. Medtronic expects to submit the 8-series for FDA clearance by April 2026.

Additionally, Medtronic unveiled a patch pump prototype with a semi-durable design, featuring a rechargeable battery, a 300-unit insulin reservoir, and a seven-day wear time. However, this device is not expected to reach the U.S. market before 2027.

Beta Bionics, which recently went public, introduced its patch pump prototype called "Mint." The device combines disposable and reusable components, with a reusable piece lasting about two years. Mint is comparable to Insulet's Omnipod in terms of insulin capacity and wear time.

Tandem Diabetes Care discussed plans for multiple pump options, including the t:slim X3 tubed pump, a tubeless version of its smaller Mobi insulin pump, and a separate patch pump called Sigi. The Sigi pump will be rechargeable and use pre-filled insulin cartridges. While specific timelines were not provided, the t:slim X3 is expected to debut first, followed by the Mobi tubeless and then Sigi.

These developments in glucose monitoring and insulin delivery systems represent significant progress in diabetes management technology, offering patients and healthcare providers more options for personalized care. As these innovations move closer to market, they promise to enhance the quality of life for millions of people living with diabetes worldwide.