Royal Philips announced this week that Lumify, the company’s new ultrasound technology for smart devices, is now available for purchase.

Lumify gives healthcare providers a portable ultrasound option that does not require purchasing additional imaging equipment. It is available through a monthly subscription, which includes a transducer, the mobile app, access to an online portal, a warranty, and technical support.

“In an increasingly connected world where the power of technology is at our fingertips, it’s no longer enough to create an ultrasound product or service,” Randy Hamlin, vice president and business segment leader, Ultra Mobile, for Philips, said in a statement. “At Philips, we create solutions holistically with the patient at the center. Lumify leverages advanced digital health technology to provide critical information to the right people at the right time, transforming how we approach care delivery and connecting the various touch points along the health continuum.”

According to Philips, the Lumify app is compatible with Android smart devices and can be used to examine the gallbladder, abdomen and lungs. In addition, it has ob-gyn, vascular, superficial, musculoskeletal and soft tissue functionality.

Bret Nelson, MD, associate professor of emergency medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, said in the Philips statement that students benefit from using technology available on everyday devices such as smart phones.  

“Leveraging a familiar device with portable diagnostic testing makes learning ultrasound easier for new users and more convenient for experienced imagers,” Nelson said. “I think that convenience and availability will increase the utility of this technology, improving patient care and efficiency.”