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xDrip+, AAPS & Spike - Installation & Setup

Connect your CGM data directly from your phone to your Garmin watch using xDrip+ (Android), AAPS (Android), or Spike (iOS). No internet connection required!

⚡ Quick Setup Guide

1

Install Companion App

  • • Install xDrip+ (Android)
  • • Or AAPS (Android)
  • • Or Spike (iOS)
2

Install Garmin App

  • • Open Connect IQ Store
  • • Search "CGM+ GB"
  • • Download & sync to watch
3

Enable Web Server

  • • Enable web server in your app
  • • Select your app in CGM+ GB
  • • Data syncs automatically

⏱️ Total time: 5-10 minutes • 📱 No internet required • 📖 See detailed steps below

Step 1: Install the CGM App

Companion App on Your Phone

First, you need to install one of the compatible companion apps on your phone. Choose based on your device and preferences:

xDrip+ (Android)

Popular open-source CGM app for Android

Download:

AAPS (Android)

AndroidAPS - Advanced diabetes management

Download:

Requires version 3.2.0.4 or newer

Spike (iOS)

CGM app for iPhone users

Download:

Note: These apps are not available in app stores. You'll need to download and install them from the links provided above. Follow each app's installation instructions carefully

Step 2: Install the CGM+ GB App on Your Watch

  1. Open the Garmin Connect IQ Store on your phone or visit apps.garmin.com
  2. Search for "CGM+ GB"
  3. Tap Download or Install
  4. Wait for the app to sync to your Garmin device (this may take a few minutes)

Note: Make sure your Garmin device is connected to your phone via Bluetooth and the Garmin Connect app is running during installation.

Step 3: Configure Your Companion App

Now enable the web server in your companion app so the Garmin watch can retrieve your CGM data locally.

A xDrip+ Setup

  1. Open xDrip+ on your phone
  2. Go to Settings → Inter-App Settings
  3. Enable "xDrip Web-Server"
  4. Important: Do NOT enable "Open Web Server" - keep it disabled
  5. In the Garmin Connect IQ app, go to CGM+ GB settings
  6. Select "xDrip+ (Android only)" as your CGM System
  7. Save and sync to your watch

Test xDrip+ Connection

To verify xDrip+ is configured correctly, open your phone's web browser and visit:

http://127.0.0.1:17580/sgv.json?count=12

If you see JSON data with timestamps and glucose values, xDrip+ is set up correctly!

B AAPS Setup

  1. Open AndroidAPS on your phone
  2. Go to Config Builder
  3. Enable the Garmin Plugin
  4. In the Garmin Connect IQ app, go to CGM+ GB settings
  5. Select "AAPS" as your CGM System
  6. Important: Leave the "Request Key" field blank
  7. Save and sync to your watch

Note: AAPS version 3.2.0.4 or newer is required. If you're using AAPS, you'll also see loop status information (IOB, TBR, COB) on your watchface.

Test AAPS Connection

To verify AAPS is configured correctly, open your phone's web browser and visit:

http://127.0.0.1:28891/sgv.json?count=12&brief_mode=true

If you see JSON data, AAPS is set up correctly!

C Spike Setup

  1. Open Spike on your iPhone
  2. Go to Settings → Integration
  3. Enable "Internal HTTP Server"
  4. In the Garmin Connect IQ app, go to CGM+ GB settings
  5. Select "Spike (iOS only)" as your CGM System
  6. Save and sync to your watch

Note: Spike users can see IOB (Insulin on Board) and COB (Carbs on Board) data, but basal rate information is not available.

Test Spike Connection

To verify Spike is configured correctly, open your phone's web browser (Safari) and visit:

http://127.0.0.1:1979/sgv.json?count=2

If you see JSON data, Spike is set up correctly!

Troubleshooting

Common Issues

Data not updating on watch:

  • Check that the web server is enabled in your companion app
  • Verify your watch is connected to your phone via Bluetooth
  • Make sure the Garmin Connect app is running (can be in background)
  • Ensure you selected the correct CGM system in CGM+ GB settings
  • Wait at least 5 minutes - updates happen every 5 minutes due to Garmin SDK limitations

Error: -400 (Invalid HTTP Body):

  • Communication error between companion app and Garmin
  • Double-check your app selection in CGM+ GB settings matches your phone app
  • Restart your companion app (xDrip+/AAPS/Spike)
  • Restart the Garmin Connect app

Phone battery optimization killing apps:

  • Disable battery optimization for Garmin Connect app
  • Disable battery optimization for your companion app (xDrip+/AAPS/Spike)
  • Keep both Bluetooth system apps unrestricted
  • Visit dontkillmyapp.com for device-specific instructions

See the Error Codes page for detailed troubleshooting steps and more error information.

Next Step: Learn how to display CGM data on your watchface or check out Nightscout setup if you prefer cloud-based synchronization.

⚠️ Important Disclaimer

  • NOT FOR MEDICAL DECISIONS: This app is for informational purposes only and should NOT be used to make medical decisions.
  • Always verify readings: Confirm glucose values with your official Dexcom receiver or app before taking action.
  • Emergency situations: In case of extreme glucose levels or medical emergencies, use your primary CGM device.
  • Delayed data: Readings may be delayed by several minutes due to how often the app can sync.
  • No liability: The developer assumes no responsibility for health outcomes related to the use of this app.
  • Not affiliated: This app is not approved by, endorsed by, or affiliated with Dexcom, Abbott (Libre), or any other medical device company.