UPDATE, 17 AUGUST, 2023: This article has been updated to reflect information regarding the removal of the 24-hour Time in Range feature from home screens in the LibreLink app, which happens once the new app update has been installed.
A software upgrade is available to the FreeStyle LibreLink app which can allow people to use the FreeStyle Libre 2 like a real-time continuous glucose monitor (CGM).
This is an exciting development for people using the FreeStyle Libre 2, which follows on from research we funded last year that revealed the transformational impact Flash glucose monitoring has on blood glucose levels and quality of life for people living with type 1 diabetes.
Until now, people who used the Libre 2 had to scan a device (either with a smartphone or the FreeStyle Libre 2 reader) over the sensor to read glucose levels. But the sensors will now have real-time CGM capability, whereby glucose levels show up on your smartphone automatically, transmitted by Bluetooth.
This means that people will no longer have to scan a Libre sensor to receive glucose readings. But you will still be able to scan the sensor if you prefer this approach.
The upgrade will not apply for people who use the Libre reader to monitor glucose levels.
Abbott says that receiving glucose readings every minute will enable people to manage their diabetes even more confidently, allowing them to recognise a change in their glucose levels sooner and act faster to avoid potential issues like hypoglycaemia or extremely low blood glucose.
How do I get this update?
Android
Both new and existing Android users of the LibreLink app in the UK and Ireland can now download this update.
On 3 August, Abbott announced that a new version of the FreeStyle LibreLink app for Android (2.10.1) was available to download in the UK Google Play Store. This version fixes an issue with the previous version (2.10.0) and includes automatic real-time glucose readings for FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor users.
Abbott has recommended that Android users now update to this version as soon as possible.
iOS
Abbott initially rolled out the FreeStyle LibreLink 2.10 iOS app update on 14 July, but then temporarily removed the FreeStyle LibreLink app from the iOS App Store, due to some people being unable to successfully upgrade to the latest FreeStyle LibreLink 2.10 iOS app in the UK.
On 17 July, Abbott confirmed that a new version of the FreeStyle LibreLink app for iOS is available (2.10.1), and Apple users can now download this update.
If you are an Apple user and following steps to re-install your FreeStyle LibreLink app, you may lose data stored on your device:
If you have a LibreView account: Your historical glucose data should still be available. If you have days left on your sensor, you will see the last eight hours of data after you re-install and scan.
If you have not created a LibreView account: You will no longer have access to historical data in the app and you will need to start a new sensor after you reinstall the app.
Abbott has recommended that Apple users now update to this version. Once downloaded, Abbott has urged Apple users to check your alarm settings and any insulin pen connections, and sign back into your LibreView account to re-establish any connections.
If you have already upgraded to version 2.10.1 and still receive a white screen, you can follow the steps in this video. You can also ring Abbott UK's customer service team on 0800 170 1177.
Time in Range
Once you have downloaded the new update, your home screen in the app will change and you will receive real-time glucose readings. You will no longer be able to see the 24-hour Time in Range feature.
However, you can access your Time in Target/Range by tapping the Menu icon in the top left of the home screen and select Time in Target/Range from the Reports section.
Parents and caregivers can benefit too
Abbott says that parents and caregivers will be able to receive this update and automatically receive their child’s glucose readings through the LibreLinkUp caregiver app.
You need to install the LibreLinkUp app to version 4.7 to receive the update.
Do I have to start a new sensor for the update to begin?
Yes. Once you have updated the app, you will only be able to receive automatic glucose readings when you replace your sensor.
Can I still scan the sensor manually?
Yes. Scanning the sensor will remain possible even when you are using the LibreLink app to receive real-time glucose readings.
Do I have to install this update?
You do not have to install the update, and even if you do install the new update you can choose to scan the sensor to measure your glucose levels.
Will this update cost money?
Availability will remain the same. If you self fund there are no changes to the price of the FreeStyle Libre 2 system. If you get the Libre 2 on prescription this will continue to be free on the NHS.
Nikki Joule, Policy Manager at Diabetes UK, said of Abbott’s announcement:
“We welcome this development that will give people using the Freestyle Libre 2 in the UK the ability to use the device as a real time CGM. Some people will prefer this and there is evidence to suggest it is more effective than intermittently scanning to check blood glucose levels.”
The FreeStyle LibreLink app is only compatible with certain mobile devices and operating systems. Please check the Abbott website for more information about device compatibility before using the app.
