Insulet’s Omnipod 5 is currently the only tubeless automated insulin delivery (AID) system available in the U.S. for managing type 1 and type 2 diabetes. After using this form factor for over five years, and Omnipod 5 for a combined seven months, I’m giving you a closer look at what it’s like to live with the system. My video review covers from its disposable pods and smartphone apps to continuous glucose monitor (CGM) compatibility, algorithm, and the overall day-to-day experience.
There’s a lot to like about the system. The disposable pods are easy to pack and travel with, sharing data through Glooko is a simple setup, and the iPhone app has a clean, straightforward design. The newly updated algorithm added a lower glucose target of 100 mg/dL, and support for Libre 3 Plus, giving users more flexibility with their settings.
Dark Mode on the Omnipod 5 iPhone App
That simplicity comes with some tradeoffs. Pods are designed to work with specific sensors, so you can’t try a new CGM without ordering pods specifically made to work with that device.
The pump’s algorithm is adaptive, and in many ways hands-off, but isn’t as customizable as other AID systems on the market. Omnipod 5 updates basal settings with each new pod, meaning it takes 2-3 days for the algorithm to implement change. If you have an outlier experience, like a sick day or a day with more than usual physical activity, the algorithm won’t adjust until the next pod change.
Insulet has teased enhancements coming with its next-gen Omnipod 6 including updates to the algorithm and over-air software updates. The updated algorithm is designed to provide more support to those who forget to bolus. Pivotal trial results show improved glucose control while using Omnipod 6 compared to Omnipod 5. Insulet also announced it’s developing a new fully closed loop algorithm for people with type 2 diabetes and have a pivotal trial underway.
Check out our review of Omnipod 5 above to see if this is the right automated insulin delivery system for you. If you want more information on Omnipod 5, become an All Access member and read my unfiltered review of Omnipod 5, and members will have access to an upcoming Omnipod Ask Me Anything. Get the full breakdown of what worked, what didn’t, and what it’s really like to use Omnipod 5 day to day.