I've been wearing an Omnipod for nearly five years now and wear it with pride—I think its cute! Before Omnipod 5’s automated insulin delivery (AID) algorithm, I was already using the device running an open source AID system called Loop (if you want that deep dive, I've got a playlist on YouTube for it). Since Omnipod 5 launched, I've worn it seven months in total; three last year and four more this year, using both the PDM controller and iPhone app, and all its compatible CGMs—Dexcom G6, G7, G7 15-day and Libre 3 Plus, as well as its recently released algorithm with a lower target of 100 mg/dl.

Let’s start with the pumps incredibly unique design. Omnipod 5 is currently (not for long) the only tubeless system on the market. It’s disposable, all-in-one pod design, is one of the most appealing features and the main reason I keep coming back to it. After the first 10 pod starter supply, pods ship in packs of five. Each package comes individually packaged with everything you need, including a pod, needle, and syringe. That makes traveling with it way less stressful than a system with a bunch of loose parts.

Each pod holds up to 200 units, and a minimum of 80 units, and lasts up to 72 hours, with an 8 hour grace period. If the pod will alert the users when its running low and as soon as it is out of insulin, it will expire. That expiration is hard to miss—it lets out an alarm you can't ignore—which i’m thankful for.

Water resistance is solid. Insulet rates it for 25 feet, 60 minutes, and says it's fine to swim with. Hot tubs and saunas aren't recommended. I swim, shower, workout, and bathe with it and the pod seems to always stay on. The only exception to that is when I’m traveling in highly humid places. Sometimes the pod will begin to peel off early during those rare occurrences and I pop on a Skin Grip to keep it on. Warning: keep bug spray and sunscreen off of it. If you get those on the pod in the heat it can cause a crack. In the five years I've used it, this has only happened to me once. The pod cracked and filled with water when I was in the pool and basically turned into a tiny lava lamp. Don’t let this deter you though!

Omnipod 5 has now on-pump controls and is completely run via a PDM, a compatible Android phone, or an iPhone. The iPhone app is U.S. only, and after two years of release, I personally don’t think it will ever become available outside the U.S. Those users may need to wait until Omnipod 6 which I imagine will only be controlled through a smartphone app.

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