[Initial Insight] The Challenge of Wearable Devices for 'Needle-Free Blood Glucose Measurement'

'Non-invasive Technology' for Diabetes Patients
Global IT Companies like Samsung Compete in Development
Must Overcome Technical Issues and Medical Regulations

Samsung Electronics' recently unveiled first smart ring, the 'Galaxy Ring,' and new smartwatch, the 'Galaxy Watch7,' had raised expectations for the inclusion of a 'non-invasive blood glucose measurement' feature before their release, but this feature was not included this time either.

Non-invasive blood glucose measurement is a technology that measures blood sugar levels without pricking the skin on fingers or other areas to draw blood, using methods such as laser projection. It is one of the most desired features for diabetic patients who need to measure their blood sugar by pricking their skin daily. If this technology becomes commercialized, diabetic patients could be freed from the pain of blood sugar measurement. However, Samsung Electronics was unable to include this feature in the new products.

On the 11th (local time), Tae-moon Roh, President of Samsung Electronics' MX Division, explained at the Galaxy new product unpacking event, "We are well aware of the strong interest from consumers with blood sugar-related diseases and the market, but there were difficulties in passing medical regulations," adding, "More time is needed in terms of completeness and accuracy. It seems difficult in the short term."

Samsung Electronics succeeded in research to commercialize non-invasive blood glucose measurement technology in 2020. However, it appears there were significant practical barriers to integrating this technology into devices like the Galaxy Ring and Watch and passing the stringent medical regulations of various countries. Earlier, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned in February that "smart rings and watches should not be used alone for blood glucose measurement," as their safety and effectiveness had not been sufficiently verified.

While wearable devices such as smart rings and watches are rapidly advancing, they must meet even stricter standards to be used for medical purposes. Since these involve life-critical matters, safety must be prioritized above all.

Non-invasive blood glucose measurement technology is an important innovation that allows consumers to manage their health more conveniently and painlessly. If realized, this technology could bring innovation not only in blood glucose measurement but across overall health management. Although it is regrettable that this feature was excluded from Samsung Electronics' new products, this is likely a gradual process to ensure the technology's reliability and accuracy.

Not only Samsung Electronics but also global IT companies such as Apple and Google are striving to develop non-invasive blood glucose measurement technology but face similar challenges. Accurate blood glucose measurement requires highly precise sensors and algorithms, and the data obtained must be reliable enough to be used for medical decisions.

Ultimately, the commercialization of non-invasive blood glucose measurement technology is more than just solving technical problems. It requires cooperation with regulatory agencies, long-term research and development, and continuous effort. Through this process, the true value of wearable devices can be realized. We hope that Samsung Electronics' challenges and efforts will eventually bear fruit and improve the quality of life for diabetic patients and many others.