Medtronic Backtracks Simplera Sync Launch Plans After Community Pushback

Simplera Sync Cleared for the MiniMed 780G

Medtronic has officially received FDA clearance for the use of its Simplera Sync continuous glucose monitor (CGM) with the MiniMed 780G insulin pump, marking a major upgrade for its automated insulin system. This long-awaited CGM is fully disposable and designed to simplify the experience for users.

Medtronic initially planned to make the Simplera Sync available exclusively to new 780G users purchasing updated pump hardware under a new contract starting in fall 2025, citing limited availability. In a direct communication to users and healthcare providers, the company announced that no software upgrade path would be offered to existing in-warranty customers—effectively shutting out a large portion of its user base who had been eagerly awaiting a more seamless CGM experience.

This announcement didn’t sit well with the community.

What Went Wrong?

I wrote about my personal experience using the Simplera Sync CGM and shared how this product was a meaningful upgrade over previous Medtronic sensors—more discreet, no overtape, and fully disposable. Naturally, many current users of the 780G were excited about the potential for a simplified CGM experience, especially one that integrates with an already-approved hybrid closed-loop system.

So when Medtronic dropped the news that existing customers wouldn’t get access—or even a timeline for access—the backlash came fast. The community voiced frustration across social media, forums, and support channels. After years of brand loyalty and waiting for improved technology, users felt sidelined in favor of new customers.

A Letter from the Top: Medtronic Reverses Course

Que Dallara, president of Medtronic Diabetes, took to the company’s blog to respond directly to the community’s concerns. In her public message, she acknowledged the feedback and confirmed that Medtronic would now prioritize current in-warranty users for access to the Simplera Sync sensor, reversing the initial rollout strategy.

The new approach will roll out in phases. Inventory remains limited, and the updated 780G hardware is still part of the plan—but now, those already relying on the 780G with Guardian™ 4 won’t be left behind.

Looking Ahead: Simplera Sync and Abbott’s CGM Partnership

The Simplera Sync approval also strengthens Medtronic’s position in a rapidly evolving CGM landscape. The company is not only investing in its own sensors but also expanding its partnership with Abbott. Just days after the Simplera Sync announcement, Medtronic revealed an FDA submission for a future insulin pump that will be interoperable with an upcoming Abbott sensor similar to the current Libre 3 Plus design. I explain the partnership between Abbott and Medtronic in the video below.

This dual-path strategy—offering both in-house and third-party CGM compatibility—positions Medtronic to offer flexibility that rivals competitors like Beta Bionics and twiist already promoting multi-CGM integrations and user choice.

Medtronic says current 780g users can choose to wait for the Abbott CGM, and enroll in its Innovations Program so they can be the first to place orders once the sensor receives FDA clearance. There is no clear release date yet.

A Win for the T1D Community

The Simplera Sync clearance is a win for Medtronic—but this story is also a reminder that tech companies listen to the people they serve. The diabetes community isn’t just passive consumers of health tech—they’re engaged, vocal, and willing to push back when rollout strategies don’t reflect their needs.

Medtronic’s willingness to reverse course and prioritize existing users is a positive sign. Whether this marks a broader shift in how the company communicates and responds to its customers remains to be seen—but it’s a moment worth acknowledging.

Stay tuned as I continue covering the evolution of diabetes tech—both the breakthroughs and the bumps in the road. To learn more about Simplera, check out my interview with Medtronic below and stay tuned for updates on the latest in diabetes tech by following along on Tik Tok, Instagram, Youtube and my podcast.