Contract tracing coming to iOS and Android

Apple and Google collaborate on COVID-19 tracking tech

Apple and Google are working together to develop COVID-19 contact-tracing technology specifically for smartphones.

The two companies will initially make their Application Programme Interfaces (APIs) cross-platform so they work across both iOS and Android, before moving to a Bluetoothbased tracing system. The aim is to assist worldwide efforts in combating COVID-19 by helping users report their status should they get sick. Anyone using the app will be able to see whether they have come into contact with someone who has self-reported as being infected; the results will be anonymised, but the infected person can share their details. Anonymised results will also be shared with public health bodies and other authorities to help them track the spread of coronavirus.

Apple and Google said in a joint statement issued on April 10: “All of us at Apple and Google believe there has never been a more important moment to work together to solve one of the world’s most pressing problems. Through close cooperation and collaboration with developers, governments and public health providers, we hope to harness the power of technology to help countries around the world slow the spread of COVID-19 and accelerate the return of everyday life.”