We’re just one month away from Fitbit’s scheduled ship date of its Ionic smartwatch. Fitbit’s newest wearable device comes equipped with state-of-the-art GPS tracking, on-device dynamic workout programs, an intuitive heart rate tracking feature, and is water resistant up to 50 meters. Poised to compete with some of the biggest names in smart watches (Samsung, Garmin, Tag Heuer, LG, and Apple), Fitbit has added an impressive technology feature that none of the industry elites have (as of today): Glucose monitoring courtesy of DexCom, Inc.

Glucose Monitoring Technology

With more than 400 million people around the world living with diabetes, according to The World Health Organization, it’s time that a leading global wearables brand incorporates glucose monitoring into their smartwatch technology. Fitbit found the perfect partner in crime to make this all happen. Dexcom’s CGM (continuous glucose monitoring system) is a revolutionary sensor that measures glucose levels subcutaneously (just beneath the skin) and wirelessly transmits data to Fitbit’s iOS/Android compatible smart app. It then sends the levels, in real-time, to the wearer’s wrist – giving those with diabetes instant readings on their glucose levels at all times.

“The strength of our brand and our ability to track critical health metrics continuously for up to 4-plus days, coupled with Dexcom’s market leadership in CGM, present a powerful combination that we hope will help millions of people better manage their diabetes,” says James Park, CEO of Fitbit in a recent press release. “With Ionic, we are focused on driving positive health outcomes and more health focused tools, and this collaboration is a wonderful example of how we plan to bring that vision to our users.”

Intelligent Design Features

Beginning “sometime in 2018,” Dexcom’s CGM will be installed on Ionic’s platform – making it a must-have wearable for those with diabetes. With the ability to integrate the technology with small biosensors that “monitor bodily fluids and send alerts via a smartphone app” and connect to contact lenses that “change colors as glucose hit dangerous levels,” the sky is the limit for both Fitbit and Dexcom on potential applications in the future.

“The collaboration between Dexcom and Fitbit is an important step in providing useful information to people with diabetes that is both convenient and discreet,” said Kevin Sayer, President and CEO of DexCom, Inc. “We believe that providing Dexcom CGM data on Fitbit Ionic, and making that experience available to users of both Android and iOS devices, will have a positive impact on the way people manage their diabetes.”

Affordability

For now, users of the Ionic smartwatch can reap the benefits of smart features that include contactless payments, onboard music, smart notifications, and automatic activity/sleep tracking. With a 4+ day long battery life and a powerful Sp02 sensor, the Fitbit Ionic is already poised to compete with some of the best smartwatches, especially with its friendly pre-order price of $300.

About Fitbit, Inc. (NYSE: FIT)

Fitbit helps people lead healthier, more active lives by empowering them with data, inspiration, and guidance to reach their goals. As the leading global wearables brand, Fitbit designs products and experiences that track and provide motivation for everyday health and fitness. Fitbit’s diverse line of innovative and popular products includes Fitbit Surge®, Fitbit Blaze®, Fitbit Charge 2®, Alta HR™, Alta®, Fitbit Flex 2®, Fitbit One® and Fitbit Zip® activity trackers, as well as the Fitbit Ionic™ smartwatch, Fitbit Flyer™ wireless headphones and Fitbit Aria® and Fitbit Aria 2™ Wi-Fi Smart Scales.

About DexCom, Inc. (NASDAQ: DXCM)

DexCom, Inc., headquartered in San Diego, CA, is dedicated to helping people better manage their diabetes by developing and marketing continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) products and tools for adult and pediatric patients. With exceptional performance, patient comfort and lifestyle flexibility at the heart of its technology, users have consistently ranked Dexcom highest in customer satisfaction and loyalty. For more information, visit Dexcom.

Sources: New Atlas, Fitbit Press Release