Diagnostic Ultrasound System Correction: Philips Ultrasound Issues Updated Use Instructions for Lumify Diagnostic Ultrasound System

The affected products and recommendations for what to do with the devices below have not changed. This recall involves updating instructions for using devices, and does not involve removing them from where they are used or sold. The FDA has identified this recall as the most serious type. This device may cause serious injury or death if you continue to use it without following the updated instructions. 

The FDA is aware that Philips Ultrasound has issued a letter to affected customers recommending all Lumify diagnostic ultrasound systems have updated use instructions.

Software Version     UDI-DI (GTIN)    
Lumify Diagnostic Ultrasound System iOS (2.X) 00884838103405
Lumify Diagnostic Ultrasound System iOS (5.0) 00884838120266
Lumify Diagnostic Ultrasound System iOS (5.1.2) 00884838124141
Lumify Diagnostic Ultrasound System iOS (5.1.3) 00884838124141
Lumify Diagnostic Ultrasound System Android (1.X) 00884838106987
Lumify Diagnostic Ultrasound System Android (3.X) 00884838100121
Lumify Diagnostic Ultrasound System Android (4.X) 00884838108455
Lumify Diagnostic Ultrasound System Android (5.1) 00884838122116
Lumify Diagnostic Ultrasound System Android (5.1.1) 00884838122116

What to Do

To prevent unintended loss or delays in scanning functionality, only use the Lumify diagnostic ultrasound system in areas with readily accessible Wi-Fi/cellular signals unless a backup ultrasound device is immediately available.

On September 24, 2026, Philips Ultrasound sent all affected customers a letter recommending the following actions:

  • To prevent unintended loss or delays in scanning functionality, only use the Lumify diagnostic ultrasound system in areas with readily accessible Wi-Fi/cellular signals unless a backup ultrasound device is immediately available.
  • Always have backup ultrasound devices and/or modalities available for care.
  • Circulate the Philips Ultrasound provided letter to all users of the device so that they are aware of the product issue and its associated hazard/harm.
  • Post the notice provided by Philips Ultrasound near the affected unit(s) for ease of reference.

Reason for Correction

Philips Ultrasound stated that due to a software issue, the Lumify Android or iOS application used with its ultrasound transducers may not recognize a previously registered transducer and will prompt users for re-registration without warning prior to point-of-care use. Scanning functionality is prevented until the registration step has been completed. Registration requires Wi-Fi or cellular signal access.

Lumify devices used outside the hospital, such as in ambulances, aircraft, or field settings, are at greater risk due to more limited access to Wi-Fi/cellular signals. Philips has received reports that the unexpected re-registration events have prevented scanning in pre-hospital environments and delayed care to patients. These pre-hospital events occurred outside of Wi-Fi or cellular access.

Philips stated it is developing a software update to address the registration issue. Philips will send a follow-up communication once the software update is available and will provide instructions on any actions required.

Additionally, Philips reported that the connection between the Lumify transducer USB cable to a customer’s tablet or phone may disconnect or have an unstable connection during use, which may disrupt continuous function of the device and result in a delay of care.

Philips stated it is working to assess the cause of the connection issue and identify an appropriate solution. Updates will be communicated to customers as soon as further information is available.

Loss of functionality or system failure during a procedure may result in a delay in diagnosis and/or treatment. Because the Lumify system is intended for point-of-care use, where ultrasound imaging supports rapid diagnosis and treatment; real-time decision-making; triage of unstable patients; and access to diagnostic capabilities in mobile, underserved, or remote settings, loss of functionality or system failure may have greater consequences than with traditional ultrasound devices. Depending on the clinical situation and patient condition, delays in diagnosis or treatment could lead to serious injury or death.

As of September 29, 2026, Philips Ultrasound has reported eight serious injuries and four deaths associated with this issue.

Device Use

The Philips Lumify Ultrasound system consists of the combination of a Philips transducer, the Philips Lumify application, and a compatible Android device or a compatible iOS device. It is indicated for diagnostic ultrasound imaging and fluid flow analysis. The Lumify system is intended for use in environments where health care is provided. The device is transportable and may be used in settings outside of the hospital such as in an ambulance.

Contact Information

Customers in the U.S. with adverse reactions, quality problems, or questions about this issue should contact the Philips Ultrasound Customer Care Solutions Center at (800) 722-9377.

Additional FDA Resources

  1. FDA Enforcement Report
  2. CDRH Medical Device Recall Database

Unique Device Identifier (UDI)

The unique device identifier (UDI) helps identify individual medical devices sold in the United States from distribution to use. The UDI allows for more accurate reporting, reviewing, and analyzing of adverse event reports so that devices can be identified more quickly, and as a result, problems potentially resolved more quickly.

How do I report a problem?

Health care professionals and consumers may report adverse reactions or quality problems they experienced using these devices to MedWatch: The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.

Timeline of Communication Updates

Date Actions
10/19/2026 The FDA updated this communication to inform the public that this issue has been classified as a Class I Recall.
10/09/2026 The FDA issued an Early Alert communication to notify the public of a potentially high-risk device issue.

Article source: http://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/medical-device-recalls-and-early-alerts/diagnostic-ultrasound-system-correction-philips-ultrasound-issues-updated-use-instructions-lumify