Top 11 tips and tricks for Dexcom G7 users using an iPhone and Apple Watch (2023)

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    The new Dexcom G7 builds upon its predecessor, G6, by introducing a much smaller all-in-one sensor and transmitter systemthat is easier to use, and provides a better mobile application than its predecessor, while also powering up faster than rival CGM systems. The G7 has a smaller sensor and a smaller sensor wire for your comfort.

    Apple iPhone and Apple Watch users love the new Dexcom G7 not only for its compact looks and ease of use but also for how the device now integrates with Apple Health and the features that are expected in the near future when it comes to Apple Watch.

    Although the Dexcom G7 has been rolled out in UK and Germany, it is expected to be made available in the US on Feb 17th. The new features around Apple Watch’s direct integration with the G7 are still not available in the countries where G7 has been rolled out.

    (Video) How to View Blood Sugars on Phone and Watch: 4 Tips for Dexcom Users

    Related Reading:

    • 5 common Dexcom errors and how to fix them
    • Dexcom G7 wins CE Mark and features direct integration with Apple Watch
    • Best companion apps for Dexcom CGMS users right now

    11 Tips for Dexcom G7 for iPhone and Apple Watch Users Top 11 tips and tricks for Dexcom G7 users using an iPhone and Apple Watch (2)

    Like the previous generation G6 sensor, you attached the Dexcom tothe back of your armfor adults and children seven and older and on the upper buttocks for children ages two to six years old.

    And the G7 is 60% smaller than the G6, so it’s a lot easier to find a great place to insert it. Plus, the G7 now takes 30 minutes for the sensor to warm up and offersa12-hour grace period to replace finished sensors for a seamless transition between sessions.

    If you are a new iPhone, or Apple Watch user and recently got into the Dexcom G7 platform to help you manage your diabetes, you find these 11 tips super helpful.

    Pairing your iPhone with Dexcom G7 Top 11 tips and tricks for Dexcom G7 users using an iPhone and Apple Watch (3)

    If you just upgraded from Dexcom G 6 to the new G7, it’s time to manage the Bluetooth connection.

    1. Open Bluetooth settings from your iPhone.
    2. Look for any sensors starting with ‘DXCM’.
    3. Tap on the ‘i’ next to the connection and choose ‘Forget This Device’.
    4. You want to clean up the old Bluetooth connections from your iPhone. When you get the Bluetooth pairing request from the new sensor, tap ‘Pair’ to get going.

    Glucose Alerts on your iPhone Top 11 tips and tricks for Dexcom G7 users using an iPhone and Apple Watch (4)

    The Dexcom G7 alerts you up to 20 minutes before you go low or when your glucose is high.

    You can personalize these alerts by choosing between quiet or loud.

    • High and Low Alerts:Dexcom G7 includes customizable alerts that help warn you of high or low glucose levels. Choose from 9 default sound options and adjust the intensity of your alerts.
    • Urgent Low Soon Alert.When your glucose levels fall quickly, the Urgent Low Soon alert provides a 20-minute advance warning of when you’ll reach 3.1 mmol/L, so you can act quickly to avoid a potential severe hypoglycaemic event.
    • The Delay 1st Alertallows you to choose if, and when, you want to receive High Alerts to take action.
    • Silent mode. A new quiet mode option allows you to silence all alerts for up to 6 hours.
    • Customizable alert schedule. If you want to be alerted differently during the day than at night or during the weekends, the alert schedule setting allows you to customize a second group of alerts.

    In order to make sure that alerts from your Dexcom G7 show up on your iPhone, you have to take care of a few items.

    Screen Time settings on your iPhone mess up your Dexcom G7 alerts. Disabling this feature on your iPhone is a good idea

    (Video) The Best Apple Watch Apps for People with Diabetes

    1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
    2. Scroll down and tap on Screen Time.
    3. Scroll down to the bottom and turn off Screen Time.
    Top 11 tips and tricks for Dexcom G7 users using an iPhone and Apple Watch (5)

    Focus Modes Settings on iOS may interfere with the Alerts

    The same is true for the ‘Focus’ mode setting. If you find that you are not getting the alerts from G7 on your iPhone, you may want to disable the Focus settings on your iPhone

    iPhone Lock Screen

    Allow the Dexcom G7 App notifications to show on your Lock screen.

    By default, the Quick Glance option is on. It shows your CGM information in the notification area and on the lock screen. Swipe down from the top edge of the screen to see your notifications.

    Force Quit Dexcom G7 app with caution

    Ensure that the Dexcom app is always running on your iPhone. You should not force quit the Dexcom app on your iPhone.

    The company recommends keeping the app in the background all the time. In the event of errors or issues, you can force quit the app temporarily but remember to make sure it’s up and running.

    Valid iPhone Settings for Dexcom G7 app?

    The Dexcom app will let you know if you have set up any settings on your iPhone that conflict with the way the app operates.Top 11 tips and tricks for Dexcom G7 users using an iPhone and Apple Watch (6)

    It does this by showing you a phone settings conflict icon on the top left corner of the app screen. Keep an eye on this and you can change the iPhone settings accordingly.

    (Video) Applying Dexcom G7... It finally happened!

    Enable Critical Alerts from the Dexcom app

    Make sure that you have enabled Critical Alerts to use the app. Critical alerts on iPhone are notifications that appear even when your iPhone or iPadis in Do Not Disturb mode or silenced. Once you have installed the Dexcom app,

    1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
    2. Tap on Notifications.
    3. Tap on the Dexcom app and make sure you have the right notifications set up.

    Connect with Apple Health

    From the G7 app main screen, tap on the Connections tab. Under the ‘Available Connections’, you will find Apple Watch. Top 11 tips and tricks for Dexcom G7 users using an iPhone and Apple Watch (7)Tap on it to start sharing your G7 sensor data with Apple Health. Your G7 sends data to Apple Health, but with a three-hour delay. The new G7 allows for more customization when it comes to Alerts. Top 11 tips and tricks for Dexcom G7 users using an iPhone and Apple Watch (8)From that Dexcom app, tap on your Profile and then alerts, to start customizing your preferences.

    Use the Widget on your iPhone.Leverage the Today’s View screen on your iPhone.

    1. Unlock your iPhone so you’re on your main Home Screen.
    2. Swipe right to display the Today View screen.
    3. Scroll to the bottom and hit the ‘Edit’ button. It takes you back to the top of the screen and display the ‘+’ and ‘Done’ buttons.
    4. Scroll back down to the bottom again and look for the ‘Customize’ button and hit it.
    5. It will bring up a list of Today View widgets you can add, one of which should be ‘Dexcom G7.’ These differ from the newer Home Screen widgets, even though you can have both types added to Today View.

    Note: for Today View to be accessible without having to unlock your iPhone, you need to allow it in Settings > Face ID/Touch ID & Passcode > under ‘Allow Access When Locked’ > turn on ‘Today View and Search’.

    Dexcom app crashes on opening?

    Although the Dexcom website still shows iOS 16.1 as their latest operating system, we have checked and found the app to be working without any issues on iOS 16.2. Your best bet is to uninstall the Dexcom app and re-install it. You will have to wait for the transmitter to connect before you can use it.

    Note: If you run into any issues with Dexcom share, try uninstalling and re-installing the Dexcom app. That usually fixes the issue.

    Use a Siri Shortcut

    Add a Siri shortcut and try “Hey Siri what’s my glucose”

    The Direct to Watch feature is still not there on the App. Dexcom says it will come in a future update. The rumor is that it’s a regulatory issue because smartwatches tend not to give any notifications when off the wrist or charging so if you only have your Dexcom paired to your watch you would not receive notifications for chunks of time, and that could be an issue.

    Dexcom has said that they are working through it and we hope that this feature is available soon for Apple Watch users when Dexcom releases its G7 in the US.

    (Video) Dexcom G7 App Walkthrough: A Powerfully Simple Way to Monitor Your Glucose Numbers

    For now, when you see the error message ‘Check Dexcom mobile app on your iPhone’, Just open the Dexcom app on your phone, and in a second the AW app will update.

    Sugarmate is the best option for nowfor Apple Watch Users

    You can use Dexcom Follow, and monitor via the Sugarmate app and link it to my calendar. Sometimes your Apple Watch will only show dashes on the screen and you have to tap in order to see the number.Top 11 tips and tricks for Dexcom G7 users using an iPhone and Apple Watch (9)

    Users have found Sugarmate to be more reliable for Apple Watch purposes. Pair your Dexcom with the SugarMate app. Continuous (5 min) readings will display through Sugarmate on your Apple Watch.

    Basically, if you set up Sugarmate for Apple Watch, it’ll create “calendar items” every five minutes that display your sugar levels.

    The Dexcom complication on the watch isn’t great. This is why I highly recommend Sugarmate with an Apple Watch. It writes to an iCloud calendar so you can see your blood sugar with almost every face.

    Bonus Tip – Keep an eye on the new 3M’s next-generation tape. The new adhesive delivers up to 21 days of extended wear on the skin and conformability.

    No More Events Message on Sugarmate?

    Many users had this issue with their Dexcom G6 and Sugarmate where one would see the message ‘No more Events’ instead of the readings.

    Usually, this happens infrequently and one way to tackle these is to ensure your iCloud Push settings are set up correctly.

    (Video) How to put Dexcom on your Apple Watch Face Gallery and on your Apple IPhone Widget screen with steps

    Summary

    We hope that you found these basic tips and tricks helpful. We will provide a more detailed guide once we have had the chance to work with the new Dexcom G7 for an extended period of time.

    Please feel free to share any tips or trick that you are using today with your Dexcom G7 and iPhone to get the best experience.

    FAQs

    Will Dexcom G7 connect directly to Apple Watch? ›

    Yes, you can check your CGM information on your wrist! The Dexcom CGM App supports Apple Watch and can be used to discreetly view your glucose reading, trend arrow, and trend graph. Use the digital crown to scroll the trend graph view between 1, 3, or 6 hours of data.

    How do I make Dexcom a complication on Apple Watch? ›

    You can choose from 5 complication styles, depending on your preferred watch face. To set up Dexcom G6 on your Apple Watch, you'll need to use the Watch app located on your compatible iPhone. * To add complications, use the Watch app to choose your preferred watch face and complication style.

    How do I follow Dexcom on Apple Watch? ›

    New Apple watch app and complication.
    ...
    To turn Follow Quick Glance on:
    1. Follow Menu > Quick Glance.
    2. Toggle Quick Glance on.
    3. Select a Sharer to display.

    Will Dexcom G7 be more accurate? ›

    The Dexcom G7 is the newest CGM on the U.S. market. It's smaller, more accurate, and easier to insert than the previous G6 model. And it's an all-in-one disposable device that has a shorter warm-up period than previous models. The new G7 app should also make it easier to see and understand your glucose readings.

    Why is Dexcom not showing as a complication on Apple Watch? ›

    Apple stopped supporting the Modular Large watch face complication on watchOS 9. If you use the Modular Large Dexcom watch face complication, it will permanently show dashes (---) after upgrading your Apple Watch to watchOS 9 and the complication won't be available in the watch complication menus.

    Does dexcom work on Apple Watch without phone? ›

    Please note that your Apple Watch will only communicate with your compatible iPhone, not the Dexcom G6 transmitter. You will not receive alarm/alerts or other notifications on the Apple Watch unless it is connected with your compatible iPhone.

    Can Siri tell me my dexcom reading? ›

    With the Dexcom G6 app version 1.4 and later, you can ask Siri to recite your Dexcom glucose readings out loud and display your graph directly on the lock screen. This feature is only compatible with iOS devices using iOS 12 and above and supported Apple Watches and watchOS.

    How do I get Dexcom to show on lock screen? ›

    By default, the Quick Glance option is on. It shows your CGM information in the notification area and on the lock screen. Swipe down from the top edge of the screen to see your notifications. If you do not see readings, open the app to check its status.

    What is dock in Apple Watch? ›

    The Dock can show your most recent apps or up to 10 of your favorite apps. When you choose Recents, your apps appear in the order that you opened them. When you choose Favorites, you can choose the apps that appear, but your most recently used app still appears at the top of the Dock.

    What Apple Watch is compatible with dexcom app? ›

    Apple Watch Series 6 | Dexcom.

    Can you FaceTime on Apple Watch Series 7? ›

    Open the Phone app on your Apple Watch. Tap Contacts, then turn the Digital Crown to scroll. Tap the contact you want to call, then tap the phone button. Tap FaceTime Audio to start a FaceTime audio call, or tap a phone number.

    How far can Apple Watch 7 be from iPhone? ›

    If you mean Bluetooth range, so your Apple Watch will use your iPhone's radios in order to save Apple Watch battery life, then between 10 and 20 meters depending on what walls, floors, and if there is a microwave oven running between your Apple Watch and your iPhone (microwave ovens operate on the same frequencies as ...

    Why am I not getting alerts on the Dexcom Follow app? ›

    Check your smart device settings. Open settings, then notifications. Find Dexcom Follow in the app list and turn on notifications. Contact your Sharer to make sure the Dexcom G6 app is not closed on their phone.

    What are complications on Apple Watch? ›

    You can add special features—called complications—to some watch faces, so you can instantly check things like stock prices, the weather report, or information from other apps you installed. With the watch face showing, touch and hold the display, then tap Edit. Swipe left all the way to the end.

    Can Dexcom G7 be worn on abdomen? ›

    Because of the smaller size and different shape, G7 can be inserted on the back of the upper arm, the abdomen, or, for children ages 2-17, on the upper buttocks. It can also be inserted using only one hand.

    Does Dexcom G7 need to be calibrated? ›

    Calibration is not required. If you want to calibrate, you can log it as an event within the G7 App on your smart device.

    How long can you wear Dexcom G7? ›

    The Dexcom G7 sensor is indicated to be worn for up to 10 days, plus a 12-hour grace period at the end.

    What can cause a false low on dexcom? ›

    One explanation may be that something is pressing on your sensor which can affect your Dexcom G6 readings. Once the pressure is relieved, your Dexcom G6 readings should be closer to your blood glucose meter. Choose a sensor site location that won't be bumped, pushed, or laid on while sleeping.

    What can affect dexcom readings? ›

    Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) — like Dexcom G6 and FreeStyle Libre — are wearable devices that track glucose (sugar) levels in the body. But some medications, including Tylenol (acetaminophen), can affect the accuracy of CGMs. This means your CGM might measure your glucose level as falsely high or low.

    What to do if dexcom is inaccurate? ›

    If your Dexcom G6 readings are always higher (or always lower) than your meter values and always outside the 20 rule, consider calibrating. Also consider calibrating if your Dexcom G6 and meter numbers don't match and your expectations or symptoms fit the meter value, but not the Dexcom G6 reading.

    Will Dexcom work without WiFI? ›

    You will need an internet connection for both the Dexcom Share app as well as the Dexcom Follow app to work correctly. You may connect to a WiFI network or move into an area that has cellular data service.

    Can you walk through a metal detector with a Dexcom? ›

    Dexcom G6 CGM can be a great travel companion; you can go through metal detectors, be hand wanded, and even keep your receiver on during your flight.

    How many phones can be connected to Dexcom? ›

    Usually a G6 transmitter is only paired with one device (e.g. a phone). But it can maintain pairing with up to two devices.

    Where is Dexcom most accurate? ›

    Look for a place on the belly, back of upper arms, or upper buttocks where there might be some padding when inserting your Dexcom G6 CGM. The sensor is not tested or approved for other sites. Talk to your Healthcare Professional about the best site for you.

    What number is high on Dexcom? ›

    A patient is considered hyperglycemic when they have a blood glucose level above 130 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) and haven't eaten for 8 hours. A level above 180 mg/dL within an hour or two of a meal is also considered hyperglycemic.

    How far behind are Dexcom readings? ›

    The 9% error margin for the Dexcom G6 CGM is close to the most accurate meters available today at 10%; a 20% difference can be expected between CGMs and fingerstick tests. You can compare readings from a fingerstick meter and your Dexcom G6 to see how closely the numbers match.

    What does it mean to mirror iPhone on Apple Watch? ›

    Apple Watch Mirroring allows you to see and control your Apple Watch screen from your paired iPhone. You can use touch or assistive features like Voice Control, Switch Control, and more on your iPhone to interact with Apple Watch. (Apple Watch Mirroring is available on Apple Watch Series 6 and later.)

    What is the slot on the side of my Apple Watch for? ›

    A battery strap maker says a hidden 6-pin charging port lies behind the smartwatch's mysterious metal cover. The Apple Watch has a "hidden" charging port in one of its slots for connecting to a watch band, according to accessory maker Reserve Strap.

    What is the button on the side of Apple Watch? ›

    Press the side button

    Press to show or hide the Dock. Press and hold to use Emergency SOS. Double-click to use Apple Pay. Press and hold to turn your watch on or off.

    Will dexcom G7 connect directly to Apple Watch? ›

    Yes, you can check your CGM information on your wrist! The Dexcom CGM App supports Apple Watch and can be used to discreetly view your glucose reading, trend arrow, and trend graph. Use the digital crown to scroll the trend graph view between 1, 3, or 6 hours of data.

    Is Apple Watch compatible with Dexcom G7? ›

    Apple Watch: View your glucose information, trend graph, and alerts right from your wrist with the Dexcom G7 Apple Watch app. Watches require compatible smart device to use app.

    Which Apple Watch is best for diabetics? ›

    The Apple Series 7 also manages important health issues such as blood oxygen, heart rate, and oxygen consumption during exercise. Its ECG is very accurate and will notify you of any heart rate irregularities.

    Should you go to sleep with your Apple Watch? ›

    Wear your watch to bed, and Apple Watch can estimate the time you spent in each sleep stage—REM, Core, and Deep—as well as when you might have woken up. When you wake up, open the Sleep app to learn how much sleep you got and see your sleep trends over the past 14 days.

    What are some cool things you can do with Apple Watch? ›

    It keeps you connected to the people and things you care about mostwith texts, calls, music and more..
    • Stay in touch with a tap. ...
    • Express yourself. ...
    • Stream over 100 million songs with Apple Music. ...
    • Put your money where your wrist is. ...
    • Never forget your key again. ...
    • Hey Siri. ...
    • Improve your sense of direction.

    Do I need to sleep with my Apple Watch on? ›

    Continued use, even after symptoms subside, may result in renewed or increased irritation. Better to allow the watch to sit on the battery charger while you're sleeping. That way it's 100% when you wake up and ready to go. A certain amount of battery will discharge while you're wearing it even to sleep.

    Can I still use my Apple Watch Series 7 if my phone dies? ›

    When your iPhone is off or out of range, your Apple Watch can use a Wi-Fi network to send and receive data. Your watch can also connect to a cellular network if it's a cellular model. And if you've set up an Apple Watch for a family member, they can use a cellular or Wi-Fi connection with their watch.

    Can you answer phone calls on Apple Watch 7? ›

    Answer on your Apple Watch: Tap the Answer button to talk using the built-in microphone and speaker or a Bluetooth device paired with your Apple Watch. , then tap an option. If you tap Answer on iPhone, the call is placed on hold and the caller hears a repeated sound until you answer on your paired iPhone.

    Can Apple Watch 7 make calls without phone? ›

    If your Apple Watch is connected to Wi-Fi

    Send messages. Make phone calls (make phone calls if you have Wi-Fi calling enabled or want to make a FaceTime audio call and you're within range of a Wi-Fi network) Use Walkie-Talkie. Stream music, podcasts, and audiobooks to your Apple Watch.

    Is cellular worth it on Apple Watch? ›

    Yes, it is definitely worth having a cellular Apple Watch. But, it comes down to your preferences. If you plan to use it with your Wi-Fi and your iPhone, the GPS version is the right choice for you. However, If you plan to leave your phone behind and explore the world, the GPS + Cellular version is a brilliant choice.

    How far can you walk away from your iPhone with Apple Watch? ›

    You don't necessarily need to have your iPhone on or immediately around you (within arm's reach, for example) for the devices to establish and maintain their Bluetooth connection. Normal Bluetooth range is around 33 feet / 10 meters (this will vary in practice due to wireless interference).

    What is difference between GPS and cellular on Apple Watch? ›

    The main difference between the Apple Watch GPS and the cellular model is the ability to connect to a network. The cellular model allows you a direct connection without having your phone present. This even supports using the GPS on your Apple Watch without requiring your phone.

    Can dexcom connect to Apple Watch without phone? ›

    Please note that your Apple Watch will only communicate with your compatible iPhone, not the Dexcom G6 transmitter. You will not receive alarm/alerts or other notifications on the Apple Watch unless it is connected with your compatible iPhone.

    Does Dexcom G7 require a transmitter? ›

    And the Dexcom G7's sensors come with pre-attached transmitters, meaning you won't need to save your transmitter when it's time to replace your sensor.

    Will Dexcom G7 have a receiver? ›

    The Dexcom G7 receiver is a compatible display device that shows a Dexcom G7 user's real-time glucose readings. The easy-to-use Dexcom G7 receiver is small, lightweight, and convenient for patients to keep with them. The Dexcom G7 receiver battery can last for up to 7 days of use on a single battery charge.

    Can Dexcom G6 connect to smartwatch? ›

    Can I view my Dexcom G6 Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) System data on an Android Watch? If your Android Watch is connected to a compatible smartphone, the Dexcom CGM app for Android will work with Android Wear watches that support custom watch faces and meet the app's minimum OS compatibility requirement.

    Can Dexcom connect to two devices? ›

    Dexcom CGM transmitters can only be paired with one medical device (either a Dexcom receiver or t:slim X2 insulin pump) and one consumer device (phone or tablet) at the same time.

    What are the new features of Dexcom G7? ›

    New features with Dexcom G7:

    30-minute sensor warmup, fastest of any CGM on the market. 12-hour grace period to replace finished sensors for a more seamless transition between sessions. Redesigned and simplified mobile app with Dexcom Clarity integration. Improved alert settings for enhanced discretion.

    Where do you put the Dexcom G7? ›

    Dexcom G7 features

    G7 can be inserted on the abdomen, back of the upper arm, or, for children ages 2-17, on the upper buttocks. It can also be inserted using only one hand.

    Is Dexcom G7 waterproof? ›

    Once inserted, the sensor is waterproof up to 2.4 meters. The receiver is not. Swim, shower, and take a bath with the sensor, but leave the receiver out of the water.

    Is it OK to put Dexcom G6 on ARM? ›

    Dexcom G6 sensors may be inserted on the abdomen, the back of the upper arm (indicated for patients age 2 years and older) or the upper buttocks (ages 2-17 years). Sensor placement is important and you will want to change your insertion site with each sensor.

    What is the best app for Dexcom G6? ›

    The Dexcom CLARITY app for your compatible smartphone * is an important part of your diabetes management. Log in with your existing Dexcom account to view a dashboard of your glucose metrics and insights over time. Easily share data with your healthcare team to make clinic visits even more meaningful.

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