Dexcom CGM Explained
How to get continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) on a compatible smartwatch†
Oct. 17, 2024 • 5 min read
If you or a loved one lives with diabetes, you understand that managing the condition is a 24/7 commitment. Whether you’re at home, travelling, or working out, you have to keep a constant eye on your glucose levels. Fortunately, CGM technology like Dexcom CGM can help you keep track of your glucose levels continuously and conveniently on your smartwatch.‡ CGM systems are designed to send real-time glucose data directly to any compatible smart device.† The data can then be connected to a smartwatch‡ via your smartphone to help you keep your glucose levels top of mind.
By using CGM technology, your compatible smartphone, and your smartwatch‡, you’ll have the power to be aware of your glucose levels—all by looking down at your wrist.
How does CGM work?
More traditional glucose monitoring systems, like Blood Glucose Monitors (BGM), use fingersticks to measure your glucose levels at a specific moment in time. But with a wearable CGM device, you can view the full picture of your glucose data with no routine fingersticks* or scanning required.
The Dexcom G7 Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) System, for example, uses a discrete sensor to continuously read glucose levels just beneath the skin’s surface. The sensor then sends that real-time glucose data to your compatible smart device† up to every 5 minutes.
This allows you to view your glucose levels in real time and have a more holistic understanding of how your glucose is fluctuating throughout the day. The more information you have about your glucose, the easier it can be to make decisions that have a positive impact on your health.
*Fingersticks required for diabetes treatment decisions if symptoms or expectations do not match readings.† Smart devices sold separately. For a list of compatible smart devices, please visit dexcom.com/compatibility.‡ Compatible device required for CGM data on smart watch. For a list of compatible devices, visit www.dexcom.com/compatibility.
Benefits of Viewing CGM Data on Your Smartwatch
Those who use smartwatches not only receive texts and make calls, but also track their fitness and health on the go. That’s why a smartwatch can be such a powerful tool for people living with diabetes to monitor glucose levels discreetly, conveniently track the direction their glucose is headed, and take action immediately when receiving an alert.
Keep in mind that your smartwatch will only communicate with your compatible smartphone†, not the Dexcom G7 sensor. For example, if you wear your Android smartwatch out for the day but leave your Android smartphone at home, you will not receive glucose updates to your smartwatch. To view glucose data digitally on your smartwatch, make sure you have your smartphone nearby and that your smartphone is in range of your transmitter (within 20 feet).
With the proper connection to your CGM system and your smartphone, your smartwatch can offer various benefits. You can view your current glucose reading in real-time, day or night. Plus, your smartwatch can display trend arrows to give you a deeper understanding of the speed and direction of your glucose levels throughout the day.
Connecting CGM to your smartwatch
Getting set up with CGM on your smartwatch only takes a few quick steps. Here’s how to connect:
- Ensure that your CGM system is compatible with your smartphone. You can find out if your smart device is compatible with Dexcom G7 here. Then, download the Dexcom G7 app to view your glucose data.
- Next, make sure that your smartphone is connected to your smartwatch. For example, you must be able to receive information from your iPhone to your Apple Watch.
- Ensure the Dexcom G7 app is installed on your smartwatch. Once connected, the glucose data transmitted to your smartphone can also be displayed on your smartwatch.
- To continue receiving updates, make sure that your smartphone is at least 20 feet away from your transmitter and in range of your smartwatch.
With CGM watch integration, you can view your glucose levels with a quick look down at your wrist. You can access the data you need to make adjustments that help you stay within your target glucose range. And through the power of remote glucose monitoring, you and your loved ones can make decisions to enhance your health — no matter where your day takes you.
Learn more about the Dexcom Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems and how it can connect to your compatible Apple or Android smartwatch. If you need help with getting started or technical support you can explore our support resources.
Get started on Dexcom CGM
To learn more about Dexcom G7, visit dexcom.com/g7. You can also start your journey with Dexcom by clicking the button below.
*Fingersticks required for diabetes treatment decisions if symptoms or expectations do not match readings. †Smart devices sold separately. For a list of compatible smart devices, please visit dexcom.com/compatibility. ‡Compatible device required for CGM data on smart watch. For a list of compatible devices, visit www.dexcom.com/compatibility.