Afon Technology, a medtech company in Wales, aims to transform diabetes management with its non-invasive glucose monitoring device, GlucowearTM. The company recently partnered with Sony UK Technology Centre for manufacturing, a key step towards bringing the device to market
Afon Technology, a trailblazing medtech company based in Wales, is preparing to redefine diabetes monitoring with its innovative GlucowearTM device. As the world’s first non-invasive, continuous glucose sensor that delivers real-time data, GlucowearTM sets a new standard in patient care.
Beyond its core functionality, the device harnesses advanced technology to deliver seamless, continuous monitoring, empowering patients with greater insight and control over their health. In a rapidly evolving health tech landscape, Afon Technology is emerging as a leader in personalised diabetes management, driving forward solutions that blend innovation with everyday practicality.
Afon Technology has recently announced a manufacturing partnership with Sony UK Technology Centre Limited to oversee the production of its groundbreaking device, a move that could be the most significant in the company’s history. This partnership marks a major step towards bringing next-generation diabetes care to market.
Landmark partnership
After six years of innovation in continuous glucose monitoring, Afon Technology is now entering a pivotal new phase, capitalising on the precision manufacturing and services provided by Sony UK Technology Centre – Sony’s UK hub for advanced production and technical excellence.
For nearly half a century, Sony UK Technology Centre has been recognised for delivering world-class manufacturing solutions for Sony and a wide range of global partners, consistently setting the benchmark for quality, precision and reliability. By collaborating closely with this renowned centre, Afon Technology aims to leverage Sony’s deep expertise, cutting-edge facilities, and extensive industry knowledge to accelerate the commercialisation of its groundbreaking, non-invasive glucose-monitoring device.
This partnership marks a significant step towards bringing Afon Technology’s transformative technology to market, combining innovative medical engineering with the trusted manufacturing capabilities of one of the world’s most respected technology organisations.
Sabih Chaudhry, CEO of Afon Technology Limited, said: “The current agreement we have with Sony UK Technology Centre marks a pivotal moment in our journey to transform diabetes management. Partnering with such a globally respected manufacturer will give us the capability and confidence to bring GlucowearTM to market at scale, ensuring the highest standards of regulatory compliance, product quality, and technical innovation.
“We would like to thank Sony UK Technology Centre for its recognition of our innovation, in conjunction with the credibility this brings from the manufacturing expertise of Sony. We are one step closer to delivering a truly life-changing solution to millions of people living with diabetes worldwide.”
Ian Worgan, General Manager for Supply Chain and Business Development at Sony UK Technology Centre, said: “As a Wales-based manufacturer, we’re excited to work with an innovative Welsh company which is bringing emerging technologies to market. With our expert contract manufacturing solutions, we’re always looking for our next opportunity to add value, collaborate and help our customers succeed.”
Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, said: “We are fostering a vibrant innovation culture here in Wales, which is pushing the boundaries of science and tackling critical challenges in areas such as climate change, industrial competitiveness and medical treatment. Afon Technology’s pioneering work benefitted from the EU’s flagship research and innovation programme, Horizon Europe, after the Welsh Government lobbied for continued involvement post Brexit, and this agreement with technology powerhouse Sony is a strong endorsement of its potential to change the lives of those living with diabetes.”
Glucose monitoring made comfortable and effortless
Living with diabetes often means dealing with the relentless routine of finger-prick tests. Although regular monitoring is crucial for keeping glucose levels stable, constantly puncturing the skin can be uncomfortable, frustrating and may leave lasting marks. Over time, this daily task can feel draining both physically and emotionally, as it reinforces the ongoing presence of the condition.
GlucowearTM introduces a new era in glucose monitoring by using RF/ microwave technology to check blood sugar levels without breaking the skin. Unlike today’s continuous glucose monitors, which still rely on sensors inserted under the skin and need routine replacement, GlucowearTM offers a completely needle-free experience.
The device operates using safe, extremely low-power RF/microwave signals to deliver real-time glucose readings. By removing the pain and hassle of finger-pricking, it helps reduce the barriers that often lead to irregular testing. This groundbreaking approach provides a seamless, comfortable and entirely non-invasive method of continuous glucose monitoring, giving users greater ease and confidence in managing their diabetes.
Glucose monitoring for everyone
GlucowearTM goes beyond diabetes management. It can help anyone interested in tracking their glucose levels to spot unusual fluctuations early. With continuous, real-time monitoring, the device provides insights that allow users to take preventative steps before minor changes turn into serious health issues.
Smart wearable technology has advanced significantly. Modern smartwatches with ECG and oxygen sensors now detect a variety of health concerns, from irregular heart rhythms to sleep disturbances. Studies have shown that consistently high blood sugar can increase the risk of severe complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, vision loss, nerve damage and more.
By revealing patterns in glucose levels, GlucowearTM supports better-informed health decisions and overall wellbeing, making it a tool for anyone who wants to stay ahead of potential health challenges, not just those living with diabetes.
The road ahead
New continuous glucose monitoring devices have come on the market, which are minimally invasive but nonetheless still invasive. Companies such as Apple, Samsung and Google are rumoured to have been trying to develop non-invasive blood glucose monitoring, but so far none have been successful. Afon Technology hopes to win the race to this important milestone.
With the announcement of its manufacturing partnership with Sony UK Technology Centre, Afon Technology is currently putting its non-invasive sensor through rigorous testing and trials, with plans to start selling the device in the UK in the near future. The company aims to transform diabetes care and set a new standard in medical innovation.
This work is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International.
