Software Bug Results In Insulin Pump Injuries, Spurs Recall

A software bug in the Tandem t:slim X2 insulin pump's companion app on iOS devices has led to a recall by the US FDA after over 200 reported injuries. The bug causes the app to crash and continuously attempt to reconnect via Bluetooth, draining the pump's battery and risking hyperglycemia or worse, diabetic ketoacidosis. Users were notified to update their apps in March, but risks remain for those who may not have received the message.

This incident highlights the potential dangers of integrating critical medical devices with consumer technology and the importance of robust software design to prevent unintended consequences. The automatic relaunch feature intended for convenience instead posed serious health risks, suggesting a need for designs that prioritize safety through alerts and fail-safe modes.