The Advanced Medical Technology Association released a policy proposal for AI in medical devices that took the U.S, FDA to task for its guidance for predetermined change control protocols for AI, stating that the guidance is “inconsistent with the statutory authority” for PCCPs.

Medtronic plc’s diabetes unit posted another win with the U.S. FDA approval of the Simplera continuous glucose monitoring sensor for use with the Minimed 780G pump system, helping the company catch up with competitors Abbott Laboratories and Dexcom Inc. Medtronic plans to begin a limited launch of the Simplera Sync in the U.S. this fall.

The U.S. FDA’s January 2025 draft guidance for AI-enabled device software functions has not fared well in terms of industry response. Two major trade associations argue that the draft is at least somewhat redundant with existing agency guidance.

U.S. FDA warning letters typically have a noticeable effect on device manufacturing operations, but in the case of Q’Apel Medical Inc., a warning letter led to the withdrawal of a product for which the company made changes that were not cleared by the agency.

Nearly three weeks into the job, U.S. FDA Commissioner Marty Makary provided a comprehensive overview of his vision for the much-reduced agency, even as he’s taking first steps to implement his agenda.

The next major shock wave to hit the U.S. biopharma and med-tech industries could be the fiscal 2026 federal budget. Nearly one-third of the discretionary budget for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) could be wiped out, according to the White House Office of Management and Budget’s “pre-decisional” budget proposal, or passback, for HHS.

The recent staff cuts at the U.S. FDA’s device center caught the attention of outsiders but also caught the attention of those who work on premarket applications for 510(k) and PMA filings.

Johnson & Johnson’s Medtech division reported the completion of the first cases in the clinical trial for the Ottava robotic surgical system. The cases mark the first clinical experience with the Ottava system, which has been a long time in development.

In a roadmap to change animal testing requirements for INDs, the U.S. FDA said its new approach will improve drug safety, hasten the evaluation process, and lower costs for companies and patients. It’s another step in a process of changing rules put in place decades ago.

The battle to claim the continuous glucose monitor with the longest wear time continues with Dexcom Inc.’s G7 15 Day continuous glucose monitor gaining U.S. FDA clearance on April 10 for adults with diabetes. The company said it now takes the lead with the 15-day duration, but Abbott Laboratories also offers 15 days of useful life for its Freestyle Libre 3 plus.