Thousands of people at risk of Type 2 diabetes will receive digital support to prevent them developing the condition as part of the NHS Long Term Plan.
In pilot schemes, offering 24/7 access to online advice significantly boosted the numbers taking up the flagship Diabetes Prevention Programme (DPP).
Almost seven in 10 people (68%) referred to digital schemes took part compared with around half of those offered face-to-face support.
Up to a fifth of places on DPP, around 40,000 a year, will be delivered digitally.
People who are at risk of developing Type 2 but who cannot make face-to-face support sessions will be the first to benefit from the expansion which starts this month.
They will receive wearable tech that monitors levels of exercise, apps allowing access to health coaches and educational content, online peer support groups and the ability to set and monitor goals electronically.