Philips unveils dual-AI MRI technology for faster scans
Royal Philips has launched SmartSpeed Precise, a breakthrough dual-AI engine technology that accelerates MRI scanning whilst delivering enhanced image quality for improved diagnostic confidence. The next-generation solution, which builds upon Philips’ award-winning Compressed SENSE and SmartSpeed technologies.
SmartSpeed Precise clinical knee image
The innovative technology represents a significant advancement in AI-driven MRI efficiency, extending across Philips’ entire MR portfolio including existing customer systems. SmartSpeed Precise enables scans to be completed up to three times faster compared to conventional Philips SENSE imaging, whilst maintaining exceptional diagnostic quality through its dual-AI architecture.
Revolutionary imaging performance delivers clinical impact
At the core of SmartSpeed Precise lies its dual-AI engine, which delivers an 80% improvement in image sharpness as evaluated through phantom scanning. This enhanced visualisation capability enables radiologists to detect subtle abnormalities with greater clarity, potentially leading to more confident and accurate diagnoses.
Clinical validation of the technology’s impact is already evident in real-world applications. Wayne Picker, VP of Clinical Technology at Prenuvo, Inc., reported significant workflow improvements: “With SmartSpeed on our BlueSeal scanner, we have reduced exam times to less than 60 minutes per slot for a multi-parametric diagnostic quality whole-body exam, making it possible to scan 2 more patients per day.”
The technology’s practical benefits extend beyond speed improvements. Picker added: “We are impressed by the extremely sharp and crisp images, diagnostic confidence, and fast scans delivered by the dual-AI SmartSpeed Precise solution. We expect it will set a new standard in clinical performance with its ease of use, high image quality, and acceleration controlled by a single parameter.”
Autonomous workflow integration advances operational efficiency
Philips simultaneously introduced MR Workspace R12, featuring a ‘zero-click’ workflow that seamlessly guides the entire imaging process from scan initiation to report generation. The AI-powered SmartExam feature automates 80% of MR procedures, though it remains unavailable for patients with MR conditional implants.
The system incorporates Smart Reading, described as the industry’s first solution that seamlessly integrates cloud-based AI-driven quantitative reporting. This innovation leverages cutting-edge AI platforms including icobrain (icometrix) for neurology applications such as Alzheimer’s disease detection, and QP-Prostate (Quibim) for advanced prostate cancer diagnostics.
These zero-click AI solutions deliver objective, high-confidence diagnoses whilst ensuring streamlined, data-driven decision-making for clinicians. The integrated approach addresses increasing demand for faster and more precise imaging whilst reducing manual intervention and optimising departmental efficiency.
Sustainable helium-free technology debuts in Europe
At ECR 2025 earlier this year Philips launched – for the European market – the company’s next-generation helium-free 1.5T BlueSeal wide-bore MR scanner. The system features a helium-free magnet design that eliminates the need for helium refills, even during shutdown events, ensuring long-term reliability whilst reducing environmental impact.
Since 2018, Philips BlueSeal technology has preserved nearly 5 million litres of liquid helium, helping conserve this finite resource. With more than 1,500 installations worldwide, BlueSeal MR systems reduce energy consumption by nearly 40 MWh annually, lowering operational costs and carbon footprint.
Regulatory status and availability
SmartSpeed Precise is currently considered work in progress, is not CE marked, and is not available for sale. The technology will become available across Philips’ portfolio of MR systems, excluding Prodiva 1.5T and Multiva 1.5T models. MR Workspace R12 is available for the entire portfolio of Philips 1.5T and 3.0T MR systems.
BlueSeal XE/SE and Smart Reading remain works in progress, not yet regulatory approved or cleared, and are not yet available for sale in any region.
- For more information, visit: https://www.philips.com.sg/healthcare/solutions/magnetic-resonance
