According to reports, Apple is making strides toward developing a non-invasive glucose monitoring device that could one day be incorporated into the Apple Watch. According to a Bloomberg story, the corporation has been investigating numerous technologies for this purpose, including optical sensors and spectroscopy.
Recent reports from Bloomberg claim that Apple has made great advancements in its search for a non-invasive glucose monitoring device and is sure that it will soon be available on the market. The method uses lasers instead of the conventional finger prick test to detect glucose levels.
According to reports, Cupertino-based Apple is using silicon photonics chip technology and an optical absorption spectroscopy measurement process to create the non-invasive glucose monitoring system. The technology uses lasers to deliver certain light wavelengths through the skin to interstitial fluid, where they are absorbed by glucose. The sensor then bounces the light back to measure the amount of glucose, and an algorithm is then utilized to determine the individual’s blood glucose level.
The non-invasive glucose monitoring system is also said to be in the proof-of-concept stage, and once it is made smaller, it may be made commercially available, the story continues.
Significantly, the new glucose monitoring system, according to the research, will not only help those with diabetes check their blood glucose levels, but also alert those who are at risk of getting diabetes.
Apple has been developing this technology for years, acquiring blood glucose monitoring startup RareLight in 2010. While progress has been made, however, a commercial product may still be years away, as the industry has not yet seen success in bringing non-prick monitors to market despite attempts by major companies.
