MiniMed (NASDAQ: MMED) has begun commercial shipments of the MiniMed Flex system in the United States, now available paired with the Instinct sensor made by Abbott. This launch marks the first time users can combine MiniMed’s smallest and only app-controlled insulin pump with what the company describes as the world’s smallest sensor, which supports up to 15 days of continuous wear.

The MiniMed Flex system is powered by SmartGuard technology, which automatically adjusts insulin delivery around the clock based on real-time glucose levels. It also features Meal Detection technology designed to compensate for occasionally missed boluses or underestimated carbohydrate intake. The device holds up to 300 units of insulin and is compatible with the Extended infusion set, which can be worn for up to seven days.

Clinical Context and Performance

Real-world data from the MiniMed 780G system, which utilizes the same SmartGuard algorithm, indicates that users with recommended settings achieve 80% Time in Range. Overnight Time in Range exceeds 90% according to the cited studies.

Regulatory Status and Eligibility

The MiniMed Flex system is FDA cleared for specific patient demographics in the U.S. market:

• People with type 1 diabetes ages 7 years and older.
• Adults ages 18 years and older with insulin-requiring type 2 diabetes.

Customers can currently order the MiniMed Flex system with either the Instinct sensor or the Simplera Sync sensor.

Strategic Positioning

Que Dallara, chief executive officer at MiniMed, stated that the company aims to deliver technology that reduces the burden of diabetes management. The launch coincides with a new consumer campaign titled "Nothing comes close to freedom you can feel," highlighting the system’s discreet design, app control, and 24/7 automation capabilities.

Monique La Bomme, a user of the MiniMed Flex system with the Instinct sensor, noted that the ability to go longer between sensor changes and use app-based controls allows for less frequent interaction with the device during daily life.

MiniMed appointed David Endicott and Linnea Burman to its Board of Directors on June 29, 2026, expanding the Board from nine to 11 members. The appointments strengthen the company's governance as it operates as an independent diabetes technology leader following its separation and IPO earlier this year. Endicott will serve as a member of the Board's Compensation and Talent Committee.

David Endicott is the Chief Executive Officer of Alcon, an eye care company, and has served on Alcon's board since 2019. He joined Alcon in July 2016 as Chief Operating Officer and became Chief Executive Officer in July 2018, leading the company's spin out and return to public markets. Previously, he was President of Hospira Infusion Systems, a Pfizer company, and spent over 25 years at Allergan in leadership roles across the United States, Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Endicott currently serves on the board of AdvaMed and previously served on the boards of Zeltiq, Inc. and Orexigen Therapeutics, Inc.

Linnea Burman was designated to the Board by Medtronic plc, which remains the majority shareholder following MiniMed's separation. She is currently Senior Vice President and President, Neurovascular at Medtronic. Burman has held various senior operating and strategic leadership roles during her more than 19 years at the company, including Vice President and General Manager positions in Enabling Technologies, Cranial and Spinal Technologies, and Pelvic Health and Gastric Therapies.

New Board Profiles

Que Dallara, Chief Executive Officer of MiniMed, highlighted the value of Endicott's experience in scaling global healthcare businesses and leading through public market separations. Endicott expressed his honor in joining the Board, citing MiniMed's track record in diabetes and its opportunity to simplify care globally. The company continues to build its position as a focused, independent diabetes technology leader.