Royal Philips has introduced SmartSpeed Precise, an AI-powered imaging solution designed to improve MRI efficiency and image quality. The technology, which features dual AI-driven engines, aims to accelerate scan times while enhancing diagnostic accuracy.

Unveiled at the European Congress of Radiology (ECR) 2025, SmartSpeed Precise is available across Philips’ 1.5T and 3.0T MR systems, including the latest helium-free BlueSeal wide-bore scanner. The new solution builds on Philips’ existing SmartSpeed and Compressed SENSE technologies, integrating artificial intelligence to optimize imaging workflows and improve patient throughput.

According to Philips, SmartSpeed Precise can reduce scan times by up to threefold while improving image sharpness by 80%. The system also features the latest MR Workspace software, which introduces automated workflow enhancements to streamline radiology operations.

“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 two more patients per day,” said Wayne Picker, vice president of clinical technology at Prenuvo, Inc.

AI-driven automation and workflow enhancements
The MR Workspace R12 update incorporates AI-powered automation tools, including SmartExam, which Philips claims can automate 80% of MRI procedures. Additionally, the software features a "zero-click" workflow, reducing manual input from clinicians and expediting the imaging process from scan acquisition to report generation.

Philips is also introducing Smart Reading, an AI-integrated reporting solution that supports quantitative analysis for neurology and oncology applications. The system integrates with platforms like icobrain (icometrix) for neurological imaging and QP-Prostate (Quibim) for prostate cancer diagnostics, providing data-driven insights to assist radiologists.

Sustainability with helium-free BlueSeal MRI
At ECR 2025, Philips also highlighted the latest iteration of its 1.5T BlueSeal MRI scanner, which features a fully sealed, helium-free magnet. This design eliminates the need for helium refills, reducing both maintenance costs and environmental impact. Since its introduction in 2018, Philips BlueSeal technology has reportedly saved nearly 5 million liters of liquid helium.

"By integrating high performance-enhancing AI engines across our entire portfolio of new and installed helium-free BlueSeal scanners, we are revolutionizing MRI efficiency while reducing environmental impact," said Ioannis Panagiotelis, global business leader for MRI at Philips.

With these advancements, Philips continues to focus on improving MRI accessibility, efficiency, and sustainability, aiming to address growing demands for faster and more precise diagnostic imaging.