Innovative Device Promises Needle-Free Glucose Monitoring

In a significant advancement for diabetes management, a new device named isaac promises to monitor blood glucose levels without the need for needles or skin sensors. Developed by PreEvnt, this innovative breath-based device aims to provide users with real-time glucose level alerts, addressing a longstanding challenge in health technology.

The Need for Non-Invasive Monitoring

For individuals with diabetes, managing blood sugar levels is crucial, yet traditional monitoring methods can be uncomfortable and invasive. Finger pricks are painful, and traditional continuous glucose monitors require devices to be implanted under the skin. This daily burden can be overwhelming for many patients, particularly young children and older adults. The advent of a device like isaac could ease some of this discomfort.

As people without diabetes also begin to monitor their glucose levels—often due to the rising popularity of GLP-1 medications—the demand for simpler and less invasive tools has surged. Notably, tech giants like Apple have invested heavily in developing needle-free glucose tracking for wearables, but such features have yet to materialize.

How the isaac Device Works

Unveiled at CES 2026, isaac distinguishes itself by analyzing acetone and other volatile organic compounds present in exhaled breath, which correlate with blood sugar levels. Acetone, in particular, is known for its fruity scent and has been linked to elevated glucose levels.

The small device, roughly the size of a quarter, is designed to be worn on a lanyard or clipped to clothing. It aims to significantly reduce the frequency of painful finger prick tests while providing early warnings about potential glucose fluctuations. Its inventor, Bud Wilcox, sought to alleviate the discomfort faced by his grandson, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at just two years old. This personal motivation spurred extensive collaboration with scientists and engineers, including research conducted at Indiana University under the guidance of Dr. M. Agarwal.

Features and Functionality

isaac integrates seamlessly into users’ daily routines. To obtain a reading, users simply breathe into the device, which then processes the information and transmits it to a companion smartphone app. This app, still in development, will focus on safety and awareness, featuring a meal logging timeline, a history of breath readings, and alerts that can notify emergency contacts in critical situations.

Recognizing the dangers of hypoglycemia, where individuals may become disoriented or incapacitated, the device’s early alerts are intended to provide caregivers and family members with timely information to intervene when necessary. A single charge lasts throughout the day and supports multiple breath tests, with the device featuring a USB-C charging cradle.

Target Audience and Future Prospects

isaac is being designed for a range of users, including those with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as well as prediabetics. Given the growing interest in metabolic health, it may also appeal to individuals monitoring their glucose levels for wellness purposes. While the device is still undergoing final development and regulatory review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, its companion app is set to launch on both iOS and Android platforms closer to its market availability.

Initially introduced at CES 2025, isaac entered human clinical trials later that year. These trials compare its breath-based alerts with traditional blood glucose monitoring methods, starting with adolescents diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and expanding to adults with type 2 diabetes. The company is now pursuing a de novo pathway with regulatory bodies, allowing for the evaluation of this novel technology while establishing standards.

While isaac does not aim to replace traditional medical-grade glucose meters, it is designed to complement existing monitoring methods by offering timely breath-based alerts. If clinical trials yield positive results and regulatory approval is granted, this small, innovative device could transform the lives of those managing diabetes.

The promise of non-invasive glucose monitoring, long anticipated in the healthcare landscape, may soon become a reality. For families grappling with diabetes, the ability to monitor glucose levels through breath could significantly enhance daily life, making it easier and safer.