Smartphone Integrated Handheld (Speed) Digital Polymerase Chain Reaction Device

We demonstrate a smartphone integrated handheld (SPEED) digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR) device for point-of-care application. The device has dimensions of 100×200×35 mm3 and a weight of ≈ 400 gm and can perform 45 cycles in ≈ 25 min. The device has integrated, miniaturized modules for thermal cycling, image taking, and wireless data communication that are controlled by self-developed android-based applications. The only consumable is the developed silicon-based dPCR chip, which has the potential to be recycled. The device’s precision and accuracy are comparable with commercial dPCR machines. We have verified the SPEED dPCR prototype’s utility in the testing of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, the detection of cancer-associated gene sequences, and the confirmation of Down syndrome diagnoses. Due to its low upfront capital investment as well as running cost, we envision that the SPEED dPCR device will help perform cancer screenings and non-invasive prenatal tests for the general population and assist in the timely identification and monitoring of infectious diseases testing resulting in fast warning about potential emerging pandemic.