VIENNA -- AI enhancements, a new MRI scanner, and cloud-based radiology informatics were among the featured highlights for Philips at ECR 2025.
In MRI, the vendor unveiled SmartSpeed Precise, a new work-in-progress, dual AI-image reconstruction package that enables scans to be conducted three times faster than with the firm’s previous SENSE reconstruction technology. With SmartSpeed Precise, the company’s Adaptive CS-Net algorithm removes noise from images acquired via accelerated protocols. Next, the company’s new Precise Image Net AI model removes artifacts and sharpens the images. The result is an 80% improvement in image sharpness, according to the vendor.
When released, SmartSpeed Precise will be available across the company’s 1.5-tesla and 3-tesla MRI scanners, with the exception of Prodiva 1.5T and Multiva 1.5T, Philips said. Philips hopes to receive the CE Mark for SmartSpeed Precise by the end of the year.
Clinical pelvis image acquired on a Ingenia Evolution 3-tesla scanner and reconstructed using Philips' SmartSpeed Precise AI-based image reconstruction technology. Image courtesy of Philips.
Philips also pointed to other software enhancements, including the latest release of its MR Workspace software. MR Workspace R12 brings a zero-click workflow that guides the entire imaging process from scan initiation to report generation, according to the vendor. The new software includes SmartExam, an AI-powered feature that currently automates 80% of MRI procedures. The company is working on adding automation capability for the remaining types of MRI procedures.
Meanwhile, Philips’ work-in-progress Smart Reading offering enables cloud-based AI-driven quantitative reporting, including access to icobrain software for neurology (icometrics) and QP-Prostate (Quibim) for prostate cancer diagnosis. In addition to improving efficiency, accuracy, and accessibility in diagnostic imaging, these AI applications also pave the way for the future of autonomous MR scanning, according to the vendor.
Philips also showcased its work-in-progress, next-generation 1.5-tesla BlueSeal MR wide-bore scanner. First introduced at RSNA 2024, the scanner features a helium-free magnet system, a 70-cm bore design, and integrated AI-enabled MR Smart Workflow software designed to increase patient throughput without compromising diagnostic quality, according to the vendor. It will be available in two versions -- SE and UE.
Informatics
Philips is also releasing several of its informatics offerings in Europe, including its Radiology Operations Command Center (ROCC). The firm has received an EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR) certificate for remote scanning capability with ROCC. The vendor-agnostic software enables radiologists to aid technologists by remotely controlling MR, CT, or PET/CT scans at multiple sites, according to the vendor.
With ROCC, imaging experts can edit scanner consoles in real-time from any location and collaborate via on-demand chat, voice, and video. The service, which has previously been available in the U.S., can help providers who are facing the challenge of not having enough skilled technologists, according to the vendor.
Philips noted that a recent pilot study conducted at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust in London found that ROCC yielded a 9% increase in total scanning throughput due to reduced scanning times and a zero exam recall rate. ROCC is currently available in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, and the U.K.
In other IT developments, Philips’ HealthSuite Imaging cloud-based radiology informatics offering is now available in Europe. The vendor had previously migrated over 150 sites in North and Latin America to HealthSuite Imaging hosted by Amazon Web Services (AWS). HealthSuite Imaging is available under a software-as-a-service model with regular upgrades, security patches, and compliance checks, Philips said.
Notably, Philips said it’s also working on generative AI applications, including, for example, conversational reporting. The company hopes these AI tools will reduce administrative burden and time-consuming repetitive tasks. These generative AI applications, which will be integrated into HealtSuit Imaging, will leverage foundation models from Amazon Bedrock and will be integrated into clinical workflows, according to the firm.
HealthSuite Imaging will be available across Europe, initially in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and the UK.
Ultrasound
In ultrasound, Philips debuted its Elevate software for the firm’s Epiq Elite and Affiniti ultrasound platforms. The software brings over 100 new Quick Launch image quality presets that streamline set-up and accelerate routine procedures, according to the vendor. Philips has also incorporated updates that automate image brightness and uniformity in order to improve user and patient experience.
What’s more, the company has added its Contrast Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS) Auto Scan capability for optimizing the CEUS gain at each pixel and frame. Other features include ElastQ Imaging for automated liver elastography and AutoStrain for selecting the best three images for quantification.
