Medtronic Simplera
Instinct sensor, made by Abbott, for MiniMed 780G
Summary
The Simplera continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is Medtronic’s first disposable, all-in-one CGM. This sensor lasts for 7 days and sends real-time glucose readings to a compatible smartphone app or directly on an Apple Watch. No finger pricks or scanning is needed.
FDA-approved for people with diabetes ages 2 years and older.
This is a CGM sensor made by Abbott, exclusively designed for MiniMed 780G system. It will work with MiniMed 780G and related systems. Wear time is up to 15 days, and warm-up is ~1 hour. Fingersticks are not required in closed-loop mode.
FDA approved for ages 7+ for use on the upper arm (back of upper arm)
MARD of ~8.5%
Components
Sensor
Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament inserted just under the skin to measure glucose levels every 5-minutes. Push-button applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.
Receiver
Conveniently access glucose readings using a reader, smartphone, or directly on an Apple Watch. Phone app available for both iOS and Android devices.
Sensor
Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament beneath the skin to continuously measure glucose every 5 minutes. Simple, one-step applicator makes insertion fast and easy.
Device Details
Overview
The Simplera is Medtronic's smallest continuous glucose monitor. It's disposable and has a flat, square shape.
Compact all-in-one sensor sensor, made by Abbott, exclusively designed for MiniMed 780G system.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
No insurance coverage data. Provided by DME and/or Pharmacy.
$$$$
Coverage will depend on insurance policies and Medtronic’s rollout plan
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
Automatically and continuously sends data to the user’s Care Partner web-based cloud which is accessible by clinicians.
Yes
Data streams directly to the pump; users and clinicians can view trends and logs via Medtronic’s platforms.
Data View Options
Yes
Users must download the Simplera app to view and share data. Messages via the simplera app or text messages to notify care partners when glucose is high or low.
Yes
Data view directly on your connected pump or smart device.
Duration and Storage
7 Days
Sensors last 7 days.
15 Days
Sensors last up to 15 days and need about 1 hour to warm up. They work between 50ºF – 113ºF and should be stored between 36ºF – 82ºF. They are usually shipped in 1–3 month supplies, which is about 2–6 sensors at a time.
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
3 sound sources
SOME dexterity needed
YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
Multiple sound sources
SOME dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Active Lifestyle
Waterproof when submerged in water and must be within range of the feet of the receiver or mobile device.
Long wear & water resistant. Longer wear reduces change burden; sensor design aims for robustness with movement. Water-resistant up to 3 feet (1 m) for 30 minutes (same standard as FreeStyle Libre family).
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Custom alerts can be set for highs, lows, and rapidly rising or falling glucose levels. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change.
Continuous closed-loop insulin adjustment helps maintain tighter control.
Comfort
Smaller size. The sensor is small and flat, and no overtape is required. Simplera’s adhesive is made from an anti-lint material that prevents sweat and water from reaching the sensor.
Small & Discreet. Very small, discreet form factor, and minimal bulk.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Real-time data and alerts make dose adjustment easier. The device can be integrated with the Medtronic InPen, which offers a bolus calculator based on carb ratios, meal estimations, the amount of insulin on board, and fixed dosing regimens
MiniMed 780G closed-loop algorithm: adjusts basal and delivers automatic correction boluses using sensor data. Longer wear (15 days) means fewer interruptions in automated dosing. In manual mode, it still requires fingerstick confirmation before dosing from sensor values.
Easy to Use
No scanning is required. Readings are sent directly to the mobile app every 5 minutes.
Longer sensor life and shorter warm-up (~1 hour) help with convenience.
Fewer Fingersticks
Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger sticks needed for backup only.
Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger sticks needed for backup only.
Privacy
Discreet. Small, flat shape and ability to see sugar on a watch or phone.
Small & Customizable. Extremely small (about the size of two stacked pennies), designed to be less noticeable under clothing. Upper arm site only; discreet but still visible with sleeveless clothing. Alerts can be customized on the connected pump for quieter use.